Description

In addition to our programs in Visual Culture, Architecture, and Pre-Architecture, Lexia in Berlin offers an exciting course of study in German Area Studies and Culture. Students develop an understanding of the language, history, art, politics, economics and culture of Germany, including the challenges of German unification since 1989. In addition, a combination of coursework, workshops, and excursions to other Lexia sites in East Central Europe introduces Lexia students to the role of Germany in this ongoing period of transformation in Europe.

Lexia in Berlin is affiliated with Die Neue Schule, with instruction provided by the distinguished faculty of the Freie Universitat Berlin, Technische Universitat Berlin, and Humboldt Universitat, as well as artists, filmmakers, architects, and representatives from government and Berlins ethnic communities. To strengthen their grasp of Germany's role within the EU, students also attend events sponsored by the European Commission, embassies, political organizations, and think-tanks, including lectures, seminars on European integration, and visits to grassroots organizations.

Students on Lexia's GASC program also have the opportunity to join their classmates in Visual Culture program, which works with the Atelierhaus Mengerzeile, a cooperative of international artists. Classes also meet at the FU in Dahlem, in Berlins museums and galleries, and in the Lexia Study Center in Schoneberg, a central and friendly neighborhood filled with galleries, cafes, specialty shops, and music stores. Our center, an updated industrial loft in a fin-de-siecle brick building, offers generous classroom and office space, including WLAN, projection equipment, student lounge, and reading area. In addition to Lexia, the building houses a dozen architecture and design offices, artists and galleries, families and students, flamenco dance and Japanese gymnastics studios, bookbinders, a flower shop, and a bakery. Lexia also introduces students to Berlins rich public culture with theater and concerts, open-air markets, and parks and lakes.

Lexia encourages interaction between our students and German faculty and students. Berlin scholars, artists, and students provide direct access to the culture. No prior knowledge of German is required, as courses are offered in English. Intensive language training helps students to develop the skills and confidence to live and study in Berlin.

Highlights

The Academic Program: One and two semester options

* One Semester Curriculum (15 weeks; 14-16 semester or 21-24 quarter credits)
- German Area Studies and Culture Seminar
- German Language Course
- Research Methods Seminar
- Field Research Project (FRP), possibly in combination with an internship

* Two Semester Curriculum (Academic Year, AY)
- GASC Elective Tutorial (taught in German or English) OR Lexia's Visual Culture
- Seminar OR Pre-Architecture Seminar (taught in English)
- German Language Course
- Special Topics (taught in German or English)
- Field Research Project (FRP), possibly in combination with an internship

Students have several options for their second semester. In addition to German and the FRP, they may select a parallel seminar in Visual Culture or Architecture, or choose two Elective Tutorials (see below). Key to a second semester is designing a program that immerses the student in the local culture via language study, internship or volunteer experiences, course work, and independent projects. Students may also spend a semester at a different Lexia site, with a comparative or complementary project.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications

Previous work experience, communication skills; strong working knowledge of German.

Intern Types

Languages

• German

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Inquire for more information.

Program Fees Include:

In general, on-site orientation, tuition and fees, scheduled program excursions, housing costs (options vary by program), partial board at some sites, student support services by Lexia Resident Director and program staff, comprehensive medical insurance, International Student Identity Card (ISIC), official transcript from Western Washington University. For specific information regarding Berlin, please inquire at Lexia International.

Experience Required

no

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Dormitory
• Home-stays