MA IDS Thesis Projects

Date of Award


Document Type

Campus Access Thesis


College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences


International Development and Service

Degree Name

International Development and Service, MA


study abroad, historically underrepresented students, minority students


Studying abroad is a beneficial opportunity that all American college students should have. White students disproportionately outnumber historically unrepresented students, particularly Black/African Americans and Latinos, in study abroad programs. The purpose of this research is to explain the large gap that exists between White students who study abroad and Black/African American and Latino students who generally do not and why colleges and universities are seeking to implement initiatives to better include and inspire students of color to participate. A reference guide was created for colleges and universities to use, which includes suggestions on how to increase the percentage of minority students who study abroad at their institution annually. It is important that students from all racial and economic backgrounds get the same opportunities to participate in study abroad because as the world becomes more globalized, there is the need for more people who have had an international experience and have a global perspective.

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