ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the phases of internationalization from the perspective of a typical educational institution. While some institutions begin internationalization efforts through international development programs or language programs, by far the largest number of colleges and universities began their internationalization with study abroad programs. As such, this can be considered the most typical initial phase. While the initial phases usually involve the expansion of study abroad programs and international recruitment, the later phases may be more difficult because they involve introducing mechanisms for coordination, forging a sense of community, curriculum development, and marketing. Whatever the starting point for a given institution, each phase of internationalization encourages other phases in a virtuous cycle in which the senior international officer (SIO) plays a pivotal leadership role. The SIO is both an agent of the administration and an advocate for change. The staff play an essential role in making international activities possible.