Development and support of a university culture in which global engagement is prioritized and encouraged
CGE is dedicated to creating a campus environment that embraces global engagement as a core value. Empower and facilitate cutting edge research that meets community, state and global societal needs.
Developing Infrastructure and Cultivating Relationships to Advance Global Engagement
The Programs Abroad Office spent much time during the 2023-2024 academic year working on building relationships — within our team, across campus and with our non-UT partners — as well as reviewing and strategically rebuilding systems and processes integral to international student mobility at UT. During this process, we were still able to support more than 60 Faculty-directed programs and send a total 1,750 students abroad.
Supporting and Safeguarding International Travel
During the 2023-2024 academic year, Global Security, Risk and Resilience (Global Risk) supported 1,595 international trips beyond traditional study abroad programs. For each trip, the Global Risk team ensures minimal administrative burden while simultaneously safeguarding the university’s interests in risk and emergency management. This includes providing comprehensive resources, guidance and assistance services to all travelers.
Economic Impact of International Students
International students provide valuable talent in critical disciplines, drive regional economic development and add an opportunity for domestic students to engage with global perspectives without leaving Knoxville. International students at the University of Tennessee, sponsored by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), contribute $42.8 million to Tennessee’s 2nd Congressional District and support 462 jobs.
Semester | Total Students | Graduate | Undergraduate |
Spring 2023 | 1,108 | 894 | 214 |
Fall 2023 | 1,329 | 1,033 | 250 |
Spring 2024 | 1,295 | 1,000 | 255 |
On-Campus Global Engagement
Programming hosted by International House promotes integrative global learning, intercultural development and cross-cultural engagement. It enriches the educational experiences of students so they can deepen their cultural awareness and understanding and thereby participate as members of a global, culturally diverse society. Friendship Program and the International House student employment program are two examples of the opportunities for meaningful global engagement on campus. Programming frequently addresses the following career-readiness competencies identified by NACE: career & self-development, communication, critical thinking, equity & inclusion, leadership, professionalism and teamwork.
Streamline the International Agreements Process
In a rapidly evolving world, partnerships are the bedrock of progress. At the University of Tennessee, we recognize the transformative power of global connections. That’s why at the Center for Global Engagement, we are committed to facilitating international collaborations that redefine education, research, and our collective future. Now you can visit the CGE Intranet to learn different types of agreements, obtain agreement templates, initiate a agreement, view the agreement process map, renew agreements and submit annual report all in one place. Visit International Partnerships or email ut_grip@utk.edu.
International Student Belonging
International House serves as “home sweet home away from home” for UT’s international student community and supports the wellbeing and inclusion of its international population. International House’s physical presence on campus signals the university’s value of international students and commitment to their success. Both the physical space and programming of the International House connect students in a transnational community and provide intentional opportunities for relationship building and meaningful connections. Programming equips international students to learn about university, local and U.S.-American culture; positions them as partners in cultural exchange; and encourages them to purposefully co-create a meaningful community. International Coffeehouse, International Festival and World Showcase center international students to strengthen their sense of belonging and amplify awareness of their contributions to UT. American Cultural Experiences promote cultural exploration while ensuring opportunities for shared community experiences.
Bridging Gaps and Engaging in Partnerships
The English Language Institute has served multilingual international students and the local community for more than 45 years and continues to provide premier English language programs and services in a dynamic learning environment. From local walk-ins who are looking to sharpen their English skills on a part-time basis to F-1 visa students who are pursuing a degree plan full-time, we serve a wide range of students. The value of the English Language Institute goes beyond our doors; we are an innovative hub for bridging cultural and linguistic gaps, empowering students, fostering global partnerships and engaging in research in the field of TESOL. Contact us at eli@utk.edu.
Total Students Served in Academic Year 23-24 at ELI
Fall 1 | Total Students: 21 – Core: 21 |
Fall 2 | Total Students: 26 – Core: 24 | OPIc: 2 |
Spring 1 | Total Students: 33 – Core 28 | Saturday: 5 |
Spring 2 | Total Students: 45 – Core: 35 | KGHS: 4 | TOEFL Prep: 6 |
Summer | Total Students: 41 – Core: 21 | Saturday: 7 | OPIc: 3 | ELI110: 5 | Online: 5 |
Total Students: 166 | Category: F1 (40%), Local (40%), Other Visas (20%) |