Join CCSA
The Cooperative Center for Study Abroad (CCSA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit consortium that fosters international understanding and enhances student learning through affordable, high-quality study abroad programs.
With more than 40 years of experience offering faculty-led programs, CCSA collaborates with schools and faculty to make global learning accessible.
Why Schools Partner with CCSA
-
Expanded access for students and faculty - pre-departure and on-site guidance and peer learning opportunities are a unique feature of CCSA allowing us to expand access to faculty with limited experience teaching abroad.
-
Faculty mentoring - faculty become part of part of a cohort of faculty sharing best practices before departure and on site.
-
Opportunities for staff: staff (and faculty) from member institutions can apply to serve as on-site program administrators.
-
Enhanced learning - every program is interdisciplinary in nature.
-
Flexible enrollment minimums - shared expenses give us flexibility in case some courses have lower enrollments.
-
Expanded global reach - CCSA complements existing faculty-led programs.
-
Transparent communication - schools are kept informed about student participation and on-site experiences.
-
Robust student safety - programs and activities are reviewed by experienced faculty and staff, with emergency medical and safety procedures in place.
-
Comprehensive insurance coverage - all participants are protected with medical and evacuation insurance.
-
Enhanced academic support - faculty receive guidance to strengthen syllabi and achieve global learning outcomes.
-
Efficient administration - full access to the CCSA application system allows schools to monitor student information and program status.
-
Flexible credit options - credit can be awarded in ways that align with each institution’s policies.
Empower Faculty, Inspire Students, Expand Global Learning
For Faculty
-
You don't have to do everything yourself! Rely on the CCSA staff and onsite team so you can focus on your course.
-
We help with student recruitment - member schools represent over 250,000 potential participants.
-
Course flexibility - faculty can design their own program or select from pre-designed syllabi.
-
Full logistical support - CCSA manages travel, bookings, insurance, applications, student payments, and risk management.
-
Comprehensive benefits - faculty receive lodging, roundtrip airfare, per diem, local transportation cards (where available), and many meals.
-
Marketing and recruitment support - digital and print materials plus outreach assistance beyond the home campus.
-
Mentorship and collaboration - guidance from experienced faculty to develop course content.
-
Professional development - training, orientation, and faculty development opportunities.
-
On-site support - dedicated CCSA staff provide assistance throughout the program.
For Students
-
Scholarships - three kinds of scholarships open to students from member schools.
-
Flexible scheduling - winter and summer term programs that fit academic calendars.
-
Affordable experiences - programs include more activities and excursions in the base price than typical options.
-
Support for first-time travelers - individualized pre-departure guidance, small group orientations, and cultural competency training.
-
Travel options - fly with faculty-led group or travel independently to join the program on-site.
-
Comprehensive support - trained CCSA staff available during travel and on-site.
-
Earn academic credit - flexible registration through home institution or Murray State University.
-
Develop 21st-century workplace skills - strengthen resumes and prepare for careers in a connected world.
-
Professional networking - connect with students from other colleges and universities across the U.S.
Tuition and Course Registration
Member institutions choose how students register and receive credit for CCSA courses:
-
Home-School Credit: institution creates the course and registers the student for credit at home.
-
MSU Credit: students receive credit and transcript from Murray State University; CCSA manages registration, grading, and transcript delivery.
-
Hybrid Model: students taking courses with their home faculty receive home-school credit; those taking courses taught by faculty from other CCSA institutions follow the MSU Credit option.
Each member also designates a Campus Representative, who serves as an advocate and point of contact for CCSA on campus.
Membership Levels
Regionally accredited U.S. colleges and universities may join CCSA at the level that best fits their goals and needs.
-
Full Membership - one-time fee of $4,000; full access for students and faculty, plus Board of Trustees representation.
-
Associate Membership - four-year term, $2,000; full access and Board representation at a discounted rate.
-
Affiliate Membership - three-year terms, no fee. Participate in Board-level discussions (without a vote).
