Culture and Business in the Heartland of America
A 2-Week Study Program for Russian Students at Michigan State University
Program News
Update: 22 February 2026
While we soon be making appointments for getting a US visa at the embassy in Astana. To be a part of the trip to Astana, you must be registered for one of the July programs by 20 March 2026. After that, you will need to make your own arrangements to get a US visa.
We will also start accepting the 15000 Ruble deposit soon. We will need to receive this payment to reserve your place in the trip to Astana. More information coming very soon!
Our Program (July 2026)
Program Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan USA
Program Dates: 1 - 15 July, and 18 July - 1 August 2026
Program Fee: $3200
Program Director: Prof. Thomas Rimer, MBA
Professor of Practice in Finance
Eli Broad College of Business
Michigan State University
Program Details
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On Campus: single occupancy dormitory with shared bathroom
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Transportation to/from DTW airport and all program events
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All breakfasts included (except in Chicago)
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5 meal tickets for MSU campus dining halls
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Welcome and farewell dinners
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Some lunches provided
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2 nights in Chicago (trains and hotel rooms included in program fee)
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Instruction in MSU classrooms
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Business visits
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Cultural events
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Guest speakers
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Interaction with American students
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Health Insurance when on the MSU campus and during program events
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Russian translator onsite 24 hours per day
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Certificate of Completion at the end of the program
What the Program Fee does not cover
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Airfare
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Health insurance when not on the MSU campus
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Meals listed as not included in the program
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Personal spending money
Please note: we will be happy to assist with additional insurance coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Will you provide recommendations for air travel routes?
Yes. In fact, we are working on a group flight with discounted rates (more informtion will be available soon)
Do you provide Visa support?
Yes. Michigan State University will provide a letter of invitation to use for obtaining a Visa to enter the USA.
What type of Visa do I need?
You will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 Tourist Visa for the USA. Do not apply for a Student Visa!
Is this an official program of Michigan State University?
No. Michigan State University is the host of the program, but this is not an official program of the University.
Will I earn university credits for participating in the program?
No. This is a Study Abroad program independent of a university in Russia or the USA, and no university credits will be conveyed by the program.
How to Apply to the Program
To apply to participate in the Program:
1. Fill out the information below, and click Submit. We will contact you when we have received your application, and then you can proceed to Step 2:
2. Pay the 15.000 Ruble non-refundable Application Fee
Please note:
a) this amount will be applied toward your Program Fee
b) we will refund this amount to you if you are denied a US Visa, or are denied entry into the USA
3. We will contact you about your Visa status, and assist you to get a Visa for the USA if you wish.
About us
Professor Thomas Rimer is pleased to offer the Culture and Business in the Heartland of America Study Abroad program in partnership with the St. Petersburg State University of Economics and Michigan State University.
Professor Rimer is the Managing Director of the Castelot Centre for Peace Through Education, a multi-national organisation dedicated to fostering the cause of global peace through cultural understanding and education. He has been conducting Study Abroad programs since 2018 in nations such as Russia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil.