CIEE
300 Fore Street

Portland, ME 04101
United States
Phone: 207-533-4000;
Toll-free: 800.40.STUDY
Fax: 207-553-5000
Web Site: CIEE
Downloads:    (Application)



CIEE Central European Studies in Prague, Czech Republic
 
SHARE
  Czech Republic
  • Prague: 
    • Prague
Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
Dates: Fall 16 weeks: late Aug-mid-Dec; Spring 16 weeks: mid-Jan-mid-May; Academic Year 32 weeks: late Aug-mid-May
Description
Established in 1991, the CIEE Study Center in Prague has two main goals: to provide a broad and challenging academic program which gives students the opportunity to learn about subjects related to the region, and to provide the experience of living in the setting on which their studies are focused.

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. Schedules for Charles University and FAMU courses are available after students arrive on site.

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
  • Broad and challenging 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
  • Opportunity to enroll in courses at FAMU, one of the most prominent and renowned film schools in Europe
  • Theme-based interest groups explore various aspects of Czech culture, politics, and society through special informal activities

Culture
Cultural Activities and Field Trips
The program includes visits to sites of historical and cultural importance in Prague such as Prague Castle, Old Town, the historical halls of Charles University, theater, and opera. In addition, academically coordinated field trips to locations in Bohemia and Moravia are arranged, allowing participants to gain a wider perspective of the region and a greater understanding of studied academic topics and Czech culture. CIEE also organizes optional guided field trips to Berlin and Vienna with CIEE professors at an additional cost.

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 radio stations, NGOs, schools, orphanages, and English language training programs. For credit internship placements are competitive and cannot be guaranteed. Students interested in this experience complete applications upon admission to the program and interview with organizations after arrival in Prague.

Flat Buddies
CIEE arranges for local Charles University students to live with CIEE students in apartments and 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
CIEE has created several interest groups to help smaller groups of students become more integrated into Prague culture and society. These groups include: history; economics and business; politics and international relations; sport; film and theater; music; photography; and art. All of the activities within each group
include Czech students with similar interests, cultural visits, seminars, and group trips.

CIEE Central European Studies in Prague, Czech Republic
Subject Areas
Anthropology, Architecture, Art History, Arts, Comparative Literature, Culture, Economics, Environmental Studies, Film, Filmmaking, History, Internship Programs, Languages / Linguistics, Literature, Philosophy, Political Science/Politics, Psychology, Religious Studies, Social Sciences and Women's Studies
Cost in US$
Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing
Cost Includes
The CIEE fees for 2010-11 include 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, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, field trips, pre-departure advising, comprehensive student handbook, local transportation pass, extracurricular programming, and a CIEE iNext travel card, which includes insurance and other travel benefits.
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 and Independent living
    Participants Travel to Czech Republic
    Independently
    Scholarships Are Available
     - We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.
    Application Process Involves
    • Letters of Reference
    • Other
    • Transcript
    • Written Application
    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
    Are you interested in this study abroad program?
    SHARE