Marist University has achieved the top national ranking for full academic year study abroad programs among master’s-granting institutions, according to the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) annual Open Doors report. This is the fourth consecutive year Marist has led in this category.
The university received five Top 20 placements across various categories related to global engagement for the 2023–2024 academic year. Marist ranked first for academic-year programs, second for semester-long programs (up from fourth last year), third for total number of students studying abroad (up from fourth), sixth for overall study abroad participation rate (up from ninth), and eighteenth for short-term “travel course” programs, a new entry in this category.
The rankings are compiled in partnership with the U.S. Department of State.
Dr. John Peters, Associate Provost for International Engagement at Marist, stated: “Study abroad is a powerful bridge between people, cultures, and nations, helping to foster discussion, understanding, and dialogue. We are building a better tomorrow, one student and global experience at a time.”
A significant factor in Marist’s performance is its First-Year Abroad program. Students can choose to begin their studies either in Florence or Dublin through separate experiences designed to immerse them in different cultures from the start of their college careers.
Dr. Gavin Webb, Dean of International Programs at Marist, commented: “This year’s Open Doors report demonstrates our commitment to bringing Marist to the world. Global programming is a cornerstone of our internationalization strategy.”
James Morrow-Polio, Director of International Programs at Marist added: “We are proud that Marist has been recognized for fostering international engagement. These opportunities prepare our students to thrive in a global society.”
Marist Italy offers students an American degree program based in Florence with options ranging from one semester up to four years; it remains the only U.S. bachelor degree-granting institution located there.
Students also have access to study opportunities at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid with both Spanish- and English-language tracks available. The Asia Study Abroad Program allows participants to travel across nearly twelve countries and eighteen cities within one semester while combining coursework with cultural experiences.
Veronica Vogelman ’26 shared her perspective on participating in ASAP: “ASAP was easily the most unique and transformative experience I’ve had at Marist. Between traveling to a new country every week, meeting with international businesspeople, and doing hands-on cultural research halfway across the world, I learned so much about myself and the world around me.”
Other students echoed similar sentiments about their experiences abroad:
“Studying abroad broadened my perception of the world and of myself,” said Lana Tomchuk ’26 who studied both in South Africa and Florence.
“Living somewhere new helped me understand how different people move through life, and it made me more open-minded and curious,” she added.
Jacob Gresens ’26 described his time studying in Madrid: “My experience abroad was incredible because I gained so many skills and competencies while living and studying in Spain. I feel like a more mature, experienced, and confident person after the program.”
In addition to these core offerings, Marist supports students with financial need through initiatives such as financial aid applicable toward study abroad costs as well as the Presidential Fund for Equity in the Marist Experience—which has assisted approximately 300 students participating in experiential learning opportunities including short-term courses overseas.
