Study Abroad

Browse the 2025 MCCCD study abroad catalog!

Programs are open to all MCCCD students and community members, 18 years of age and above! 

Summer short term faculty-led programs offer MCC classes taught abroad. Discover your world by partaking in a life-changing academic experience that will have a profound effect on your personal and professional future! Programs, courses, and cultural excursions may vary from year to year.

Why Study Abroad?

Look beyond our borders to understand people and cultures around the world. Gain skills needed for future career success!

A sloth hanging from a tree branch

San José, Costa Rica

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Costa Rica!

Apply by: February 2, 2025

Dingle Penninsula

Athlone, Ireland

Spend a full month immersing yourself in the study of Irish culture and history.

Apply by: March 1, 2025

Puerto Penasco

Puerto Peñasco, Mexico

Experience the Sea of Cortez, one of the best intertidal expanses in the world and Arizona's closest beach!  

Apply by: March 1, 2025

Anime Art

Fukuoka, Japan

Expand your language and psychology horizons to the Far East!  Highlights of your stay in Japan will include 4 nights with a local Japanese host family.

Apply by: February 2, 2025

A group of elephants near water in Namibia

Namibia (Africa)

A trek through the wilds of Africa will probably be the single most adventurous and exciting thing that you will ever do!

Apply by: March 1, 2025

The view from the London Eye

England and Paris, France

Apply by: March 1, 2025

Immerse yourself for a month in all aspects of British culture with an excursion to Paris, France.

Grand Corniche

Nice, France

Experience an authentic cultural, language and food immersion experience by living with a host family!  

Will not be offered in 2025

Rooftop view of Florence

Florence, Italy

Explore art history and intercultural communication in Italy--a global center for art, fashion, food and design! 

Will not be offered in 2025

Why Should Students Study Abroad?

U.S. Study Abroad Contributes to Student Success InfographicU.S. Study Abroad Contributes to Student Success Read "Why study abroad is essential to our future"!

In addition to an experiential academic pursuit, other benefits of study abroad include: personal growth & maturity, increased self-confidence, facing & solving challenging problems, developing a personally informed view of the world, and gaining a better understanding of one's own cultural values and respect for diversity.

Study Abroad Impacts Employability Skills! 

There is now even more evidence that study abroad has a beneficial impact on employability after graduation, according to a report by the Institute of International Education (IIE), with 11 out of 15 “21st century workplace skills” gained through an experience overseas.

Gaining an Employment Edge: The Impact of Study Abroad on 21st Century Skills & Career Prospects, released at the IIE Summit on Generation Study Abroad in Washington, DC found that studying abroad has an overall positive impact on the development of a wide range of job skills, expands career possibilities, and has a long-term impact on career progression and promotion.  See the full article: http://bit.ly/2zbMYXd

Did you know that participating in a study abroad program can improve your marketability?

  • See What former first lady Michelle Obama has to say about getting an edge when getting a job!  Watch the video from Mrs. Obama's interview with Jareen Imam, CNN.

Did you know that studying or working abroad can make you smarter?

Maricopa Global Leadership Retreat

Every fall semester, MCC students participate in the Maricopa Global Leadership Retreat, bringing together nearly 100 American and international students for a weekend of developing global leadership skills -- all while learning about other cultures!  Application deadline: TBA

International Education Events

Stay tuned for International Education Week in November 2025!

For information in-person and virtual events throughout the 10 Maricopa Community College campuses, visit:

MCC International Education Events
International Education Week