Global Readiness and International Programs

In fulfilling its mission in instruction, research and scholarship, and public service, the UNC System recognizes the challenges of the rapidly changing, knowledge-based global economy and environment of the 21st century. With the United States’ destiny increasingly being shaped by common global concerns and the interdependence of nations and peoples throughout the world, the University affirms its responsibility:

  • To provide its students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences to become informed and productive citizens of the state, the nation, and the world, through interactive courses in language, culture and economics, through increased student exchange, through enhanced virtual experiences and study abroad.
  • To bring its educational, research and public service resources to bear in addressing current and future global concerns through faculty exchange, collaborative research, and other means.
  • To bring in top students from around the world to learn here. Some students will stay and become key knowledge workers and entrepreneurs here; others will return to help their home countries and form future partnerships with North Carolina.

The University Council on International Programs (UCIP)

The University Council on International Programs consists of senior international officers from each of the constituent UNC System institutions, the assistant vice president for undergraduate programs, and representatives from affiliated organizations that support international efforts. The chair of the UCIP is appointed by the senior vice president for Academic Affairs, from among the senior international officers of the 17 campuses and serves with the approval from the campus provost. The UCIP meets regularly to advance the international agenda across the University and encourage inter-institutional programs, outreach, and communication. The mission of UCIP is to advise the president on international matters and on policies influencing the support and operation of international programs. The UCIP also coordinates the University’s diverse international efforts to meet the growing needs for global readiness in international education, research, and service.

Institution International Websites

International Programs

UNC International Student Recruitment Consortium (UNC IRC)

The UNC IRC comprises East Carolina University, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina Central University, UNC Asheville, UNC Charlotte, UNC Greensboro, UNC Pembroke, UNC School of the Arts, UNC Wilmington, and Western Carolina University. The consortium works to bring more highly-qualified international students to participating institutions through increasing awareness of the campuses in international markets and helping institutions to build their capacity to ensure international student success.

Having more international students can help domestic students learn to work in diverse teams and appreciate cultural differences. These skills are critical to the development of “intercultural competence,” which is valued by faculty and future employers. In addition, graduating international students who choose to stay in North Carolina start businesses at roughly twice the rate of domestic graduates and can fill important skills gaps in the state. International students who choose to return to their native country can be valuable ambassadors for the state.