Description

The Central European Studies study abroad program in Prague, Czech Republic is intended for students who have an interest in the Czech Republic and Central Europe, as well as in the political, social, and/or economic transformation from state control to democratic market-based systems.

Academic Program
The Central European Studies program offers students a series of specially designed courses in a wide range of academic disciplines taught in English by local faculty. Although there is no language prerequisite for participation in the program, students are required to take a Czech language course in order to better immerse themselves in local culture. The combination of Czech language and academic courses allows students to explore the dynamics of this Central European nation and its culture.

Academic Culture
CIEE courses are taught by professors who are both experienced and experts in their fields of study. Classes are often lecture-based, though professors welcome student-initiated questions and discussion. The lectures go beyond course readings and demand that students tie together their content and the materials independently.

Some instructors use videos, slides, and excursions as teaching aids. Courses meet twice a week for 1.5 hours or once a week for 3 hours. CIEE and Prague Film and Television School of the Academy of the Performing Arts (FAMU) class sizes range from five to 30 students per course.

Students experience differences between the U.S. and Czech educational systems. This new academic environment is part of the challenge of studying in Prague and learning about the Czech Republic. Students must be aware that a high degree of self-motivation and self-discipline is required, and that independent learning and active participation in class are necessary for achieving a satisfactory academic performance.

Resources such as library holdings in English and Internet access may be limited and students may need to seek these resources outside the CIEE Study Center at public libraries or other CU faculties.

Highlights

• Enroll in a broad range of courses supplemented by prominent guest lectures by leading Czech political, economic, religious, and social figures; courses include numerous out-of-class field trips and activities
  
• Integrate into Czech culture through multiple, diverse immersion-oriented program activities and networks
  
• Enroll in courses at FAMU, one of the most prominent and renowned film schools in Europe, as well as a special group of courses at Charles University

CIEE International Students Club (ISC)
CIEE promotes and encourages cultural exchange between CIEE and CU students. Many extracurricular activities are organized by ISC to provide opportunities for friendship, understanding, and social interactions. The club organizes activities based on student interest and works with other CU International Clubs to bring Czech and international students together.

Immersion
Internship and Volunteering
Internship and volunteer opportunities are available in Prague. Students may volunteer or intern in both public and private-sector organizations such as NGOs, schools, and English language training programs. Forcredit internship placements are competitive and cannot be guaranteed. Students choose from several pre-screened internship positions with local, mostly non-governmental organizations, which may be involved in education, organization of international political conferences, local and global human rights issues, and library and administrative work in the field of economics. Students record their experiences in a journal, which is evaluated weekly during the internship, and complete a final research paper that includes what they have learned during their experience at the organization. Evaluation is by assigned CIEE faculty, the internship supervisor, and the Resident Director. Students interested in a CIEE Internship must complete applications upon admission to the program and get approval from their home institution and CIEE prior to the start of the semester. Internship placements are made following an interview with organizations after arrival in Prague.

Flat Buddies
CIEE recruits and trains a group of local Charles University students who live with CIEE students in apartments and the dormitory. These Flat Buddies share day-to-day issues, help CIEE students to better understand local cultural norms and standards, and assist students with immersion into the Czech culture and Charles University student life. These local students also help CIEE Prague staff with orientation, social events, and activities throughout the semester.

Interest Groups
Interest groups help smaller groups of students become more integrated into Prague culture and society. These groups include: politics, economy, and society; sport; film and theater; music; and art. All of these groups include Czech students.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing

Program Fees Include:

The CIEE program fee includes an optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, tuition, housing, breakfast for those in dormitories or two meals per day for those in a homestay (no meals nor internet fees are included for the apartment option), orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, field trips, pre-departure advising, local transportation pass, extracurricular programming, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.

*Students who opt for and are placed in single-occupancy dorm rooms will be billed a supplemental fee of approximately USD 500, 4-6 weeks after the program starts.

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 3.0
• One semester of college-level European (especially Central European) Studies recommended (i.e. history, sociology, economics, political science, language, or literature)

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Dormitory
• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Scholarships are Available

We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application
• Other

CIEE's Mission Statement

Since 1947, the Council on International Educational Exchange, known as CIEE, has been in pursuit of its mission, "to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge, and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. Our services to young people studying, working, teaching, and traveling abroad are more important than ever.

Year Founded

1947