About the Internationalization Lab

What Internationalization Means for the University of Wyoming

January 2012

UW ACE Internationalization Lab Team

The American Council on Education defines internationalization as “the process of integrating an international [and] intercultural dimension into the teaching, research, and service functions of the institution.” How the University of Wyoming utilizes this definition is shaped by its context, history, and mission.

UW’s setting in the rural Rocky Mountain West creates certain challenges for internationalization. Its relative isolation makes it all the more important that the UW community be exposed to the complexities of an interdependent, global society and to comprehend and value diversity. UW’s commitment to internationalization is clearly stated in University Plan 3: “UW will cultivate an environment that attracts international scholars and students, we will enhance our students’ international awareness through the curriculum, and we will expand opportunities for UW students to study abroad."[1] This commitment demonstrates our recognition of the importance of providing international perspectives to our students, positioning them for competitive success in the 21^st century workforce, and providing value to our partners throughout Wyoming.

As Wyoming’s sole research university, we embrace the opportunity to extend internationalization not just on the Laramie campus, but through UW’s statewide presence, and in partnership with our community college and K-12 colleagues.