Haenicke Institute for Global Education

Your journey at Western Michigan University is a global one. Through transformative events, immersive classes and experience-driven learning, the Haenicke Institute for Global Education connects Kalamazoo to the world—and the world to Kalamazoo. We assist more than 1,170 international students on campus and nearly 1,000 WMU degree-seeking students at partner institutions in China and Taiwan. We host 80+ study abroad programs and bring students, faculty and staff to 30 countries around the world. From fostering academic opportunities to showcasing cultural events and providing K-12 outreach, the Haenicke Institute promotes learning that transcends borders and takes you wherever you want to go.  

Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5245 USA
(269) 387-5890

Get Involved

Our offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. To make an appointment, please contact staff directly. Express advising for international students is available Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Express advising for study abroad is available daily. Both units are housed in the Faunce Student Services building.
Contact Us
Staff Directory

Our Programs

A young man making the Western W with his hands.

International Student and Scholar Services

International Student and Scholar Services is responsible for international student recruitment, admissions and immigration support.
A student holding a WMU flag at a foreign location.

Study Abroad

The Haenicke Institute's study abroad unit hosts more than 80 programs in 30 countries around the world.
A student and teacher in a WMU classroom.

Faculty Engagement

The Haenicke Institute enjoys formal partnerships with more than 100 international institutions, offering options to faculty who are interested in collaboration and exchange.
Students studying

English Language Learning

The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students offers intensive English language courses online and in-person.
Students talking on campus

Global Learning

The Global Engagement Program supports campus events and activities designed to foster a more globally engaged community.
WMU staff helping young children learn about Asia.

Asian Initiatives

Asian Initiatives enhances scholarship and knowledge of East Asia. The unit provides language and culture opportunities on campus and in the greater Southwest Michigan community.
“There is so much to learn at the global level, and if you get locked in on a certain thing or place, you miss out on so many opportunities and possibilities. The opportunity to go out into the world and meet people on a global scale is an opportunity I couldn't pass up."
— Megan Garrett, Transfer Student, '26

News

Students and staff presenting on international education in 2025.

WMU marks its place in international education

jeffrey gilman

WMU Study Abroad celebrates new, nationally competitive Gilman award winners

Asia image

Light Center for Chinese Studies launches Spring Guest Lecture Series

A group of students enjoying fellowship at Spring 2025 International Student Orientation.

WMU welcomes more than 50 new international students this January

Drs. Stephen Covell and Chien-Juh Gu

Faculty awarded prestigious Fulbright fellowships for global research and teaching opportunities

Asian Arts performer

Spring Gala to return to Miller Auditorium

A group of WMU students studying in Ecuador.

Study abroad at Western yields higher student success

WMU senior Reggie Reggie Dancy traveled to the Netherlands with his Advanced Criminology class. It was the first time Dancy, a 21-year-old from Detroit, had left North America.

WMU Study Abroad nears pre-Covid levels, faculty-led programs drive participation growth

Events

All Global Events
All WMU Events

More Institute News and HIGE Newsletter

Click below to read more news of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education and sign up for our monthly newsletter.
Global News
HIGE Newsletter