MSC L.T. Jordan Faculty-Led Programs Innovation Grant
The MSC Jordan Institute's Faculty-Led Program Innovation Grant is a competitive funding opportunity to support faculty-led education abroad programs at Texas A&M University. This initiative aims to foster the development of new programs and the enhancement of existing ones through innovative approaches, ultimately increasing student participation in international experiences. By investing in faculty-led education abroad programs, this grant will help Texas A&M maintain a strong global presence, foster student participation in international education, and contribute to the sustainability of education abroad opportunities.
Background & Goals
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, education abroad programs have faced declining participation and increased cancellations due to financial barriers and shifting student priorities. Faculty members interested in leading education abroad programs often encounter challenges related to program development costs, recruitment, and sustainability. By offering a grant to offset costs and encourage program innovation, the MSC L.T. Jordan Institute seeks to:
- Encourage faculty to develop new and unique education abroad programs.
- Support innovative enhancements to existing programs to improve accessibility and appeal.
- Reduce program costs to help increase student participation.
- Contribute to Texas A&M’s commitment to global engagement and international education.
Grant Structure & Funding
- Total Grant Amount: $10,000
- Number of Awards: 1-2 per year
- Eligibility: Open to Texas A&M faculty members who are leading or developing a faculty-led education abroad program.
- Use of Funds: Funds may be used for program development, student scholarships, innovative curriculum implementation, or other costs that directly enhance program viability.
Application & Selection Process
- Call for Proposals: Faculty will need to submit their application by August 1.
- Proposal Requirements:
- Program overview and objectives
- Course information
- Description of innovative or unique aspects and anticipated impact
- Recruitment strategy for student participation
- Review Process: A selection committee will evaluate applications based on feasibility, innovation, impact on student engagement, and alignment with the Jordan Institutes and Education Abroad goals
Application Details
Below is the complete list of application questions in order to complete the full application:
Faculty Information
- Name
- Department
- Title
- Have you previously led or co-led a faculty-led study abroad program?
Course Information
- Course Prefix & Number
- Course Title
- Credit Hours
- Course Syllabus
Program Information
- Program Name
- Program Dates
- Locations Abroad
- Please upload a copy of your education abroad program proposal.
- Target number of students to take on the program?
- What is your plan to recruit students for the program? Include target audiences, promotional methods, and any anticipated challenges.
Innovation and Impact
- Is this a new or existing program
- What makes this program or enhancement innovative? For new programs, please describe how this faculty-led program is different from others on campus or in your department. For existing programs, please describe any new pedagogical approaches, partnerships, interdisciplinary elements, or unique features you plan to incorporate. (300-500 words)
- How will this grant help you achieve your goals for the program? Specify how the funding will be used to support development, student access, or program innovation. (200-300 words)
- What is the anticipated impact of this program on student learning and engagement? Describe learning outcomes, potential for transformation, and how you plan to assess student impact.
- Is there anything else you would like the review committee to know about your program or proposal?
As a grant awardee, you play a key role not only in advancing global learning at Texas A&M but also in promoting the mission and reach of the L.T. Jordan Institute across campus. To that end, the following deliverables and expectations will be required:
1. Jordan Institute Visibility & Outreach
To help showcase the impact of this grant and promote global opportunities to future students:
- Student Engagement:
- At least one participating student must complete an Instagram takeover on the @mscltjordan account during the program (support and guidelines will be provided).
- Additional students may be invited to participate in features, blogs, or student spotlights coordinated by the Jordan Institute.
- Program Media:
- Faculty must submit a minimum of 5 high-resolution photos from the program (with student consent), which may include academic activities, cultural engagement, or general program highlights.
- Photos will be used to promote the program, the grant, and the Institute’s mission via digital platforms and promotional materials.
2. Post-Program Reflection and Reporting
To help us evaluate the effectiveness and reach of the grant:
- Submit a 1–2 page written summary within 30 days of the program’s conclusion, addressing:
- How the grant supported or enhanced the program.
- Specific outcomes related to innovation or increased accessibility.
- Any lessons learned or recommendations for future grantees.
- Be willing to participate in future promotional events or panels hosted by the L.T. Jordan Institute, when possible.
3. Collaboration with Education Abroad
- Faculty must work in close coordination with Texas A&M Education Abroad throughout the planning, approval, and implementation process of the program, including meeting all required deadlines and policies for faculty-led programs.