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Freiburg, Germany

Summer - European Union

Study Abroad
Length:
Summer

At a Glance

Housing:

Apartment

Credits:

7 per Summer

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

About the Program

Freiburg will be your home base. Nestled at the foot of the Black Forest, it’s in this beautiful, small university town that you’ll take English-taught courses in disciplines like Political Science, International Relations, and Economics. As part of the program’s required Integrative Seminar, you'll travel for 14 days to gain exposure to the European Union and beyond. Not only will these course-related trips give you better insight into the strengths and challenges of the European Union, but they'll also give you the experience you need to build your résumé, and to prepare you for an international career. 

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Travel for 14 Days

Develop an understanding of the European Union and its history.

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Europe Will Be Your Classroom

Imagine meeting with leaders of multinational corporations.

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Participate in Model European Union Capstone

Analyze and debate issues of current concern in Europe.

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Individual Program Advisor

Your IES Abroad advisor is your #1 resource for preparing to study abroad.

2024 Summer

Program Dates:

May 27 - July 20

Application Deadline:

Estimated Cost:

$
8,799

Program Advisor

spencer biery headshot

Spencer Biery

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

the flags of the European Union fly in front of a building

Why the European Union?

Why study abroad in one location when you can experience the politics and cultures of different European cities? Our European Union Program allows you to learn about European politics, economics, business, and international relations in a whole new way.

Build your knowledge about the structure, origins, crises, and challenges of the EU in the classroom. Experience the EU by visiting European destinations and by interacting with officials and other representatives. Debate the current agenda of the EU by role playing the EU politicians during the Model EU.

Learn More About Your Home Base: Freiburg, Germany

Get to Know Freiburg

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(Don't) Step in the Bächle

Navigate the narrow channels of water that run through the streets.

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Hike, Cycle, & Climb the Black Forest

Germany’s densely forested area is right in Freiburg’s back yard.

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Take in the Views from the Schauinsland

A rigorous hike or an easy cable car will take you to the top of this hill.

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Support from Freiburg

On-the-ground staff are available at the Center in Freiburg.

The Student Experience

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Housing

Students sit around a dining room table full of food, smiling at the camera.
  • Apartment

Apartment

You'll live in a private single-occupancy room in a co-ed suite with a shared kitchen and bath. Suites are shared with German and international students and have Internet access. 

Meals are not included in the program fee. Students typically prepare meals at their residences or dine in Freiburg’s affordable student cafeterias. 

Academics

Our mission is simple: to provide you with the highest quality academic and cultural experience abroad possible. We offer unparalleled courses that explore European Politics, Economics, Business, International Relations, and other topics through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors and course-related excursions enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class.

Courses

You take two courses: the 4-credit Integrative Seminar and a 3-credit elective course for a total of 7 credits. You are also required to take a two-day, 0-credit "Survival German" class.

  • PO350 - EU Studies Integrative Seminar (4 credits)

Three elective courses (Students will select ONE) 

  • PO/IR370 - EU-US Relations: A Multi-Dimensional Partnership (3 credits)
  • PO/EC246 - European Union Policies in Practice (3 credits)
  • PO/IR 357 - Reshaping the International Order: Power, Conflict and Change in the Black Sea Region (3 credits)

Two-Day Introductory German Language Course

  • "Survival German" Class (0-credits) 

NOTE: This is a list of tentative course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.

IES Abroad Courses

Disciplines (2)

International Relations (1)

PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
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Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Freiburg, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

A tall glass building sitting on a manicured lawn on a cloudy day. This is the Parliament building in Strasbourg.

Strasbourg

1 Day Summer

On this trip, you'll cross the border to France to visit the European Parliament in Strasbourg. You'll also have the chance to experience the eventful history of the city, which has changed its nationality four times in less than a century.

Two students are jumping and smiling in front of the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France.

Brussels & Paris

7 Days Summer

This trip will take you first to Brussels, the EU's institutional power center, where you'll visit key EU institutions. Then, you'll visit institutions and museums in Paris, where you will discuss French culture, economy, politics and society.

Stockholm Port on a sunny day. Numerous boats line the riverbank, and European-style buildings line the background.

Stockholm

6 Days Summer

On this trip, you'll not only learn about Sweden's political culture, but also about its role within the EU and its EU policy priorities.

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

2024 Summer

Tuition
$
6,494
Housing
$
2,170
Insurance
$
135
Total
$
8,799

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More
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About the IES Abroad Center

The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad. 

The IES Abroad Freiburg Center is located at the heart of the city. Nearby you’ll find notable landmarks like Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, the Freiburg Theater, and the main shopping district. With classrooms and student lounging space, the Center is your study abroad hub.  

 

Orientation

Start at Home
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and the city.
Arrive in Freiburg
Orientation continues when you arrive onsite with activities focusing on adjusting to Freiburg. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
Trip to the Black Forest
Orientation also includes a trip to the idyllic Black Forest, where you can hike and enjoy a typical German Kaffee und Kuchen—an afternoon ritual of having cake and coffee.
Intensive Language Learning
During the first week of the program, you will begin your language learning experience and participate in activities to meet and bond with others.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore Freiburg before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Program Dates

2024 Summer

Program Dates:

May 27 - July 20

Application Deadline:

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • No German language is required 

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
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The Student Experience

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now
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