Michigan State University will centralize its London-based study abroad programs to Regent's College, a private college located in the heart of London, to improve quality, enhance the experience for all students and control costs. Regent's Park will serve as the base for MSU's faculty-led study abroad programs in London starting summer semester 2010.

This change creates a partnership between MSU and Regent's to coordinate all of MSU's London-based programs with a single campus. This will allow MSU programs to integrate into one academic community.

"Bringing the various components of our programming support into an institutional relationship will improve quality of service to faculty and student," said Brett Berquist, Office of Study Abroad executive director.

Regent's offers better housing accommodations, modern classroom facilities and access to student services which can enhance the student experience.

As MSU's academic partner, Regent's will offer students full access to libraries, computer labs and student life services such as cafes, restaurants, sporting facilities and a health clinic. Additionally, MSU faculty will have the support of Regent's information technology services as well as opportunities to develop collaborations with Regent's faculty.

"Regent's College is a luxury facility in an idyllic setting," said Bradley Greenberg, professor emeritus, College of Communications Arts and Science. "It is five minutes' walk from Baker Street into Regent's Park, and sits across from the entrance to the Queen's flower garden, which is adjacent to an outdoor theatre in that park. It is a comprehensive collegiate environment in the middle of London."

Michigan State University's catalog of summer study abroad programs in London is among the largest of any U.S. university. London programs range from courses in English Literature to Forensic Anthropology.

Establishing Regent's College as MSU's institutional partner in London addresses several strategic goals for the Office of Study Abroad. The partnership will ensure programming and housing for students during the summer of 2012 Olympic Games in London and will help OSA services respond to increasing immigration restrictions that may impact students. Additionally the partnership will help control costs through efficiencies that will result from working with one partner.

It is estimated that the partnership with Regent's College could help reduce 2010 study abroad participation costs by up to $400 per student, compared to projected 2010 costs without this change. Students will see savings through a reduction in housing fees, food services and better coordination of programming.

The university's office of study abroad provides over $400,000 per year in scholarships for MSU students studying abroad on all 7 continents, in addition to financial aid from the university and departmental awards.