What is Study in the States at WMU?
Study in the States (SIS) is a unique program for WMU Lee Honors College students that offers experience-driven learning opportunities within the U.S. states or territories. We offer five distinctive Study in the States courses annually.
Every SIS course fulfills WES Level 3 - Connections: Local and National Perspectives. With the exception of the cost of tuition, all travel and experience expenses will be paid by the honors college. You can find course descriptions, including dates of travel, below. Follow us online using #LHCSIS!
Looking for study abroad opportunities?
Study in the States focuses on immersive learning experiences within the United States and its territories. Students interested in international travel can pursue study abroad opportunities through WMU and honors-specific programs in locations around the world. Both options allow students to earn academic credit while expanding their perspective through experience-driven learning.
100%
Travel costs covered by honors college (not including tuition)
10+
Study in the States locations offered every year
100,000+
Miles traveled cumulatively since the program began
Spring and Summer
Semesters with Study in the States opportunities
Why Study in the States?
Some lessons are best learned by experiencing them firsthand.
Study in the States gives you the opportunity to engage directly with the places, people and ideas you are studying. Learn alongside your classmates in a small, faculty-led cohort. Whether exploring environmental issues in the Southwest, tracing the legacy of Walt Disney, or learning about influential historical figures, you'll gain a deeper understanding of course topics through immersive, hands-on experiences.
With smaller class sizes, close interaction with faculty, and a focus on reflection and discussion, SIS creates meaningful learning experiences that will stay with you long after the course ends.
"My learning experiences in this course were some of the most influential in my life. The low-stakes, first-hand, open-class learning style is something I think everyone on this earth would benefit from."
What to expect
One week of up-close learning
Each Study in the States course includes a full week of immersive learning led by a WMU faculty member. Students may visit museums, historical landmarks, community organizations, business, cultural sites, and other locations connected to the course topic. Local guest speakers and experts often provide perspectives that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting.
Bonding with classmates
Traveling and learning together creates connections that often last long after the course is over. Students spend meaningful time with their peers and gain unique access to the faculty member leading the experience, crating opportunities for mentorship, conversation, and community that extend beyond the classroom.
Explore the local area
While academics remain at the center of the experience, students will have opportunities to experience the character of each destination. Exploring neighborhoods, trying local restaurants, and interacting with communities help students develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity found across the United States.
A signature experience that connects to your studies
Study in the States allows students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings while earning honors credit. No matter your major, these experiences challenge you to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, and see complex topics from new perspectives.
2027 Study in the States opportunities
Each year, the Lee Honors College offers a variety of Study in the States experiences that explore different themes, locations, and disciplines. Course offerings change regularly, giving students opportunities to discover new interests and perspectives throughout their time in the honors college.
The application deadline is Oct. 30, 2026, at 5 p.m. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered. Check out individual program information below.
Spring 2027
Summer II 2027
How to apply to Study in the States
Study in the States courses are open exclusively to currently enrolled students in good standing with the Lee Honors College. Most courses welcome students from any major, and selection is typically based on the application.
Because enrollment is limited, students are encouraged to apply early once applications become available.
I made in the Spring of 2025 on my trip to Idlewild, Michigan, with the Lee Honors College Study in the States Program. It explores my discovery of how the community of Idlewild changed my life, as well as the process of beginning to come alongside the locals to revitalize the community.