Study Abroad Participation Triples at Seton Hall, Offering Courses Across Disciplines

University Joins Global Consortium, Unlocking Access to Prestigious International Campuses

Seton Hall University has reportedly undergone a remarkable transformation in its Study Abroad programme, with participation rates and international reach increasing significantly over the past three years. University officials have indicated that the initiative, once limited in scope, now reflects a strategic commitment to global engagement, academic enrichment, and inclusive access for students across disciplines. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, only around 8 per cent of Seton Hall students were said to have studied abroad before graduation, with opportunities restricted to five campuses in four countries. However, recent figures suggest that nearly 30 per cent of students now take part in study abroad programmes, supported by a growing network of international universities and faculty-led initiatives.

According to university administrators, the most notable development has been Seton Hall’s expansion to 57 campuses across 24 countries. This growth has been attributed to its membership in the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), a nonprofit alliance of global institutions. Through this partnership, students are now able to access prestigious universities such as the University of St Andrews in Scotland and Charles University in Prague, as well as leading campuses in Italy, Spain, Sweden, and Japan. All programmes are delivered in English, with optional local language courses available for students seeking deeper cultural immersion.

University leaders have reportedly emphasised that these semester-abroad opportunities are open to students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including Biology, Finance, Psychology, Marketing, Diplomacy, and the Arts. They have also highlighted the availability of scholarships, international internships, and field-based research placements, which are designed to enhance academic learning, broaden global perspectives, and develop career-ready skills.

Associate Provost Mary Kate Naatus is understood to have stated that international education remains central to Seton Hall’s mission. She noted that joining the consortium had unlocked unprecedented access to global institutions and meaningful cultural experiences, ensuring that students from all majors could benefit from study abroad opportunities. Affordability has also been positioned as a key strength of the programme. University administrators have confirmed that students retain their full scholarships, financial aid, and grants while studying abroad. Housing costs average approximately $2,900 per semester, reportedly lower than domestic accommodation rates, with options including residence halls, apartments, and homestays, allowing students to engage more fully with local communities.

Students themselves have expressed strong support for the initiative. Psychology major and Study Abroad Peer Advisor Nicole Uretzky shared that affordable housing and transferable scholarships had enabled her to plan a semester in Japan following her participation in the Rome Connection freshman programme. She added that such experiences were shaping both her university life and future career aspirations.

The programme’s rapid expansion has been credited to Douglas Cantelmo, Director of Study Abroad and Global Engagement, along with a dedicated team of Study Abroad Peer Advisors. Cantelmo is said to have reflected on the personal impact of studying abroad and expressed enthusiasm for the growing number of students now able to pursue international academic experiences. Observers have noted that Seton Hall’s approach distinguishes it among study abroad universities, combining affordability, academic rigour, and global access. The expansion is seen as part of a wider trend among higher education institutions, both public and private, to prioritise international engagement and broaden access to scholarships for overseas study.

Editor’s Note

Seton Hall University’s dramatic expansion of its Study Abroad programme is more than a numbers story, it’s a strategic shift in how the institution prepares students for a globalised world. In just three years, the university has moved from limited access in five campuses to a robust international network spanning 57 campuses across 24 countries. This transformation, driven by its partnership with the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), reflects a deliberate move to embed global learning into the core of student experience. What makes this initiative stand out is its accessibility. By offering courses in English and optional local language immersion, Seton Hall ensures that students from all academic backgrounds , whether in Psychology, Finance, Diplomacy or the Arts — can participate meaningfully. The inclusion of international internships, field-based research, and faculty-led programmes adds academic rigour and real-world relevance, preparing students not just to travel, but to engage. Affordability has been a cornerstone of the strategy. Students retain their full scholarships, financial aid, and grants while abroad, and housing costs ,averaging just $2,900 per semester,are notably lower than domestic options. With choices ranging from residence halls to homestays, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in local cultures without financial strain. The university’s leadership, particularly Associate Provost Mary Kate Naatus and Director Douglas Cantelmo, has prioritised inclusive global access. Their efforts, supported by a team of Study Abroad Peer Advisors, have helped raise participation from 8% to nearly 30%, a remarkable leap that signals institutional commitment to internationalisation. Students are increasingly driving the trend towards international education. Nicole Uretzky's experience exemplifies this, as she utilized affordable housing and transferable scholarships to pursue a semester in Japan, demonstrating how these initiatives influence both academic paths and future careers.

According to Skoobuzz, Seton Hall's model, which integrates affordability, academic rigor, and global accessibility, offers a blueprint for universities aiming to make international education both practical and transformative.

FAQs

1. What makes Seton Hall one of the largest international universities?

Seton Hall has significantly expanded its global reach by partnering with the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), giving students access to 57 campuses across 24 countries. This broad international network, combined with inclusive academic offerings and high student participation, positions it among the most globally engaged mid-sized universities in the United States.

2. How many campuses does Seton Hall have worldwide?

While Seton Hall is based in New Jersey, USA, its study abroad network includes 57 international campuses through academic partnerships. These campuses are part of its global exchange and immersion programmes, rather than being directly operated by the university.

3. Is Seton Hall a good university for international students?

Yes. Seton Hall provides strong support for international students, including academic advising, cultural integration programmes, and access to scholarships. The university is known for its inclusive campus environment and commitment to global education.

4. Which countries can you study abroad with Seton Hall?

Students can study abroad in a wide range of countries including Italy, Spain, Scotland, Japan, Sweden, France, and the Czech Republic. Partner institutions include globally respected universities such as the University of St Andrews and Charles University.

5. Does Seton Hall offer study abroad scholarships?

Yes. Students retain their full scholarships, financial aid, and grants while studying abroad. Additional funding is available to support housing, travel, and programme fees, making international study more accessible.

6. What are the best countries to study abroad in 2025?

Top destinations for studying abroad in 2025 include Japan for innovation and culture, France for arts and history, Canada for inclusivity and career pathways, Australia for academic excellence, and the United Kingdom for globally ranked institutions and flexible degree structures.

7. How does Seton Hall support student life abroad?

Seton Hall supports students through peer advising, faculty-led programmes, and affordable housing options such as residence halls, apartments, and homestays. Students also benefit from cultural immersion activities, academic mentoring, and international internships.

8. What international opportunities are at Seton Hall?

Seton Hall offers a variety of global programmes including the Rome Connection for first-year students, spring embedded and summer abroad courses, semester and year-long exchanges, and field-based research. These opportunities are available across multiple disciplines.

9. Is Seton Hall among the largest universities in the world?

No, Seton Hall is not among the largest by enrolment. However, its international reach and high study abroad participation rate make it one of the most globally active universities of its size.

10. How can students apply to study abroad at Seton Hall?

Students can apply through Seton Hall’s Study Abroad Office, where they can explore available programmes, complete application forms, and receive guidance from peer advisors and faculty coordinators. The process is designed to be accessible and well-integrated with academic planning.