Student Exchange Programs with China at MSU

For MSU Bozeman Students Wishing to Visit China

MSU provides outbound study abroad and exchange opportunities to China, including:

• • Short-term summer programs — Often fully or partially scholarship-funded, such as intensive Chinese language and culture courses at institutions like Lanzhou University or Beijing International Chinese College. These are faculty-led or department-supported, focusing on immersion in language, culture, and society.
• • Faculty-led or specialized programs — Historical examples include intensive Chinese language/culture in Shanghai (coordinated by faculty like Hua Li or Jian-Yi Liu) and summer programs in various Chinese cities for language, culture, business, government, history, or environmental topics.
• • Exchange programs — Partnerships allow semester- or year-long study at Chinese universities, such as Shanghai Ocean University (listed in active exchanges).
• • Baucus Institute China Study Abroad — This Bozeman-based institute (tied to former U.S. Ambassador to China Max Baucus) offers immersive programs for Montana university students, including 2026 programs like the CUSEF Next Gen Scholars (a two-week exchange to Hong Kong, Beijing, and Chengdu in summer 2026, covering culture, green technology, rural development, and more). Scholarships often cover most expenses (flights, lodging, meals, etc.), making it accessible.

For Chinese Students (or Those from China) Wishing to Visit Montana/Bozeman

Inbound opportunities include:

• • Exchange student programs — Chinese students can attend MSU for one or two semesters via partner university exchanges (e.g., with institutions like Shanghai Ocean University) or the ISEP Exchange Program. These are reciprocal, so Chinese partner schools send students to Bozeman.
• • Special short-term or summer programs — Past examples include visits from Huazhong Agricultural University students for field experiences in agriculture/environmental sciences, or groups from China University of Geosciences participating in summer programs hosted by MSU’s Land Resources department and OIP.
• • High school-level exchanges — Organizations like International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) place Chinese (and other international) high school students with host families in Bozeman and surrounding Gallatin County areas for 5–12 month stays, attending local schools (e.g., Bozeman Public Schools). Host families are actively recruited, with groups of dozens placed annually.
• • Other inbound training/visits — MSU’s Office of International Programs has hosted short programs or delegations from Chinese universities (e.g., exploratory visits from Lanzhou University or partnerships with Huazhong Agricultural University).

MSU Bozeman has a Mandarin Chinese Language Program and China Studies Minor that support cultural engagement, but no active Confucius Institute (unlike some other Montana universities that previously had one). International student services help with admissions, visas, and integration for those arriving.