Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs

Through vigourous learning and robust engagement with the world, RWU students are empowered to pursue globalized professional opportunities, globally-minded civic engagement, and lifelong global learning.

The Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs administers long term study abroad programming, supports faculty in their work conducting short term study abroad and overseas experiential education, and fosters global learning and engagement across the university.  

At RWU, global and international knowledge, skills, and engagement opportunities are incorporated into course experiences, both in and beyond the classroom.  Courses combine with a wide array of co-curricular programs to broaden horizons, foster engagement across borders, deepen understanding of complex global challenges, and introduce students to global practitioners in diverse fields.  

RWU global and international learning and engagement programs equip students to:

  • Increase knowledge of global issues, cultures, and systems
  • Expand awareness and understanding of global perspectives
  • Develop skills of inquiry and critical thinking in global context
  • Leverage global knowledge and skills to solve problems
  • Apply learning to real world community and professional challenges
  • Develop avenues and habits of global engagement

The Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs is located in the Center for Global and Community Engagement, commonly known as "The Farmhouse," across from Lower Commons on RWU's Bristol Campus.  Students interested in study abroad are encouraged to stop by, explore materials about the many programs offered around the globe; meet with staff about study abroad possibilities and planning; and explore how to best take advantage of the many global and international opportunities of Roger Williams University.  Office Hours are 8:30-4:30, Monday-Friday.  

The world awaits!

Student helping a child with a video camera

Study, Service and Work Abroad

Global perspective, knowledge, and experience are key to making the most out of today's globalized opportunities. 

With programs in over 40 countries across six continents, faculty leading short term programs every academic break, and financial aid available for study and service abroad, RWU students explore, engage, and grow as they build vital capacities for making a positive difference in the world.  

With Roger Williams, the world awaits!

Explore Study Abroad Opportunities >

Global Partnerships

RWU global partnerships at home and abroad provide outstanding opportunities for both RWU students and faculty to engage in global learning, teaching and scholarship. They also contribute to the development of a global campus community through the international exchange of students and faculty. 

UN Visit

RWU students engage in internships and field programs while studying abroad; travel to New York to visit the United Nations; participate in the annual InterAction Forum, the largest international development and humanitarian response professional conference in the U.S.; engage Rhode Island heritage community members in story-telling projects; and serve local globally oriented organizations in a wide variety of ways. 

Throughout the year, guest speakers, faculty and community round-tables, interest group discussions, practitioner coffee hours, and cultural events provide opportunities to meet others, explore diverse perspectives, examine critical global issues, and pursue solutions for challenges facing the world.

Global mobility of students and faculty is a valued part of RWU culture.  International students and scholars are welcomed in the RWU community, and have the opportunity not just to study at RWU, in the beautiful, bay-side town of Bristol, but to explore the entire Northeast region of the United States. 

International Student Admissions >

International Student Services >

International Visiting Faculty and Scholars >

RWU faculty build collaborations and develop expertise across borders with partners around the world.  Many departments offer disciplinary-specific global opportunities.

RWU is pleased to host Fulbright Scholars from other countries, and proud of our faculty and administrators who serve as Fulbright Ambassadors abroad through Fulbright Scholar Exchange initiatives administered by the Council for International Exchange of Scholars (CIES).