Advancing Higher Education and Scientific Research

Program Activities

The activities outlined below are structured to deliver a comprehensive professional development experience, ensuring stated programs outcomes are met including: 

• A proposed roadmap to enhance academic quality assurance and accreditation in universities
• Recommendations for curriculum modernization and the adoption of blended learning models
• Opportunities for joint research and academic collaboration with U.S. institutions
• A network of professional connections with leading U.S. academic organizations

Instructional Component

Lectures from KU Faculty, Staff, Administrators, and Researchers

Participants will attend weekly lectures delivered by University of Kansas subject matter experts in higher education. Sessions will cover all required topics in the areas of:

• The U.S Higher Education System
• Academic Quality Assurance and Accreditation
• Scientific Research and International Collaboration
• Curriculum Development and Teaching Innovation
• University Governance and Strategic Management
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Higher Education

Site Visits

Some sessions will be accompanied by relevant site visits such as to KU learning labs, media centers and the innovation campus.

Networking Opportunities

While participants will be able to network during the lecture and site visit sessions, the program will include targeted networking opportunities for participants to interact with KU professionals in a more relaxed environment.

Cultural Immersion

To ensure participants enjoy a truly comprehensive and transformative experience, the program integrates a robust cultural immersion component. These activities are intentionally designed to complement academic instruction by fostering authentic engagement with U.S. culture, traditions, and community life. Through curated experiences—such as local excursions, interactive cultural workshops, and opportunities for informal social exchange—participants will deepen their understanding of American society and develop intercultural competencies that enhance both their professional and personal growth. 

Campus Immersion Activities

These activities are designed to familiarize participants with the academic and cultural environment of a U.S. university. Experiences may include:

• guided tours of campus libraries
• visits to the university’s arts and natural history museums
• attendance at collegiate sporting events to provide an authentic perspective on campus life

Cultural Immersion Activities

Participants will have opportunities to engage in authentic cultural experiences that foster a deeper understanding of American life and traditions. Planned activities may include:

• dining in a local home
• visiting the Kansas State Capitol
• exploring regional nature trails
• participating in an excursion to nearby Kansas City for sightseeing and shopping

Logistical Components

Housing

While in Lawrence, participants will be housed at the Hampton Inn (or similar), a local hotel that works closely with International Short Programs. The hotel provides free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and cleaning services.  Included in each room is a microwave and refrigerator. The hotel is equipped with a laundry room, a pool, and a fitness center. It is within walking distance of a grocery store and many restaurants and is an easy bus ride away from campus and downtown Lawrence shopping, restaurants and activities.

Meals

Meals are not included in the cost of the program, which allows participants to choose from a variety of options including eating in campus dining halls, area restaurants, or going to the nearby grocery store.

Transportation

The ISP team will provide airport transportation to and from the Kansas City airport for all participants. Participants will use the local bus system for most program activities. Buses are free to use in Lawrence with the exception of after-hours and on Sundays when there is a small fee to ride. For required program activities not accessible by bus, the ISP team will provide transportation.

Program Support

KU International Short Programs’ goal is to ensure that participants have a well-rounded learning experience both within and outside the classroom.  We also guarantee that participants will be well-supported throughout the entirety of the program from the moment their plane lands in the U.S. to the time they travel back home.  With these goals in mind, we provide the following services:

• Airport greeting and transportation
• Thorough orientation to the KU campus and Lawrence
• Staff access and support throughout the entirety of the program including 24-hour emergency services
• Farewell reception where participants will be presented with certificates and have the opportunity to bid farewell to the people they met throughout the program

Visa Considerations

This program is eligible for a B visa classification. The University of Kansas will issue official letters of invitation to support participants in their visa application process.