Aware of the growing importance of international collaboration and exchange, the CAU has established far-ranging relationships with higher-education institutions in Germany and abroad that ensure the university's integration in the global academic network.

Partnership agreements have been drawn up with 40 different universities in Europe, America and Asia. The participation of the university in EU-financed research projects and mobility/exchange programs (e.g. more than 190 ERASMUS-partnerships) clearly shows the intensive international integration. Furthermore the university takes part in EU-programs such as TEMPUS and LEONARDO.

Due to the university's geographical situation in the baltic sea region, the CAU from its foundation onward maintained special close links with neighbouring Denmark and the other Scandinavian countries, as well as with the Baltic states. The founding of the German-Norwegian Study Center more than 20 years ago was exemplary of the vigorous links maintained with the universities of the Nordic and baltic regions.

No less important than these university partnerships are the personal links between CAU staff and their fellow scholars around the world. Many guest lectures and ideas for research projects and other co-operations have arisen from these contacts, which often less informal than the official channels, produce a lively exchange of information and students.

Study abroad program for American students with the University of Utah .