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Berlin - Language & Area Studies
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. We offer a variety of courses that explore German History, Culture, Art, and Society through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our experienced faculty, as well as course options at the prestigious Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, will facilitate a unique academic experience and provide you with new perspectives both in and out of class.
You take 15–19 credits per semester— all IES Abroad courses are worth 3 credits, excluding the required 4-credit German Language courses. All courses in this program are taught in German. You can combine your IES courses with courses at the Humboldt Universität zu Berlin (HU).*Credits for HU courses will vary. In addition, you have the option to participate in an internship that runs parallel to your IES Abroad courses. For internship students, the internship seminar Leading Across Cultures is required.
These are your options in the program:
- IES Abroad German language course (required, 4 credits)
- Language & Area Studies Program courses (3 credits)
- German-taught courses at a local university (credits vary)
- IES Abroad Internship (includes internship seminar, 3 credits)
*Please note: Students who choose to take courses at a local university will need to remain in Berlin for the duration of the standard German university semester, which runs through mid-to-late-February (Fall semester) and mid-to-late-July (Spring semester).
Enrollment in German-taught partner university courses requires a German language level of B2.1 (Common European Reference Framework CERF), equivalent to GR401.
Local university course ECTS credits are converted to IES Abroad credits using a 2:1 conversion scale.
Courses
Below is a list of possible course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account.
On request and with permission from your home institution, you may take up to two English-taught courses from our Metropolitan & Urban Studies or Security Studies & International Affairs programs; or English-taught courses at a local university as part of your course-load.
To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication.
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AH 325 - History of Photography | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| CU/AH 335 - Art and Society: Germany in the 20th Century | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/AH 335 - Art and Society: Germany in the 20th Century | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| SO/CU 350 - German Popular Culture | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| DR 444 - Theater in Berlin | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| HS/FS 342 - Contemporary German Film | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| GR 301 - German Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | German | 4 |
| GR 351 - German Language in Context: Independent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | German | 4 |
| GR 401 - German Language In Context: Emerging Competent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | German | 4 |
| GR 451 - German Language in Context: Competent Abroad | Fall, Spring | German | 4 |
| IB/GR 333 - Let's Talk Business (Wirtschaftsdeutsch) | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| HS/FS 342 - Contemporary German Film | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| HS/PO 352 - German Political Thought | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| HS/PO 395 - The German Model of Social Market Economy | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| HS/US 320 - The Politics of Memory: Museums & Memorials in Berlin | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| IB/GR 333 - Let's Talk Business (Wirtschaftsdeutsch) | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| IN 397 - Global Internship Seminar | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| IR/PO 361 - Germany and the European Union | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LT 450 - Berlin Perspectives in German Literature | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| HS/PO 352 - German Political Thought | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| HS/PO 395 - The German Model of Social Market Economy | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| IR/PO 361 - Germany and the European Union | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| SO/CU 350 - German Popular Culture | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| HS/US 320 - The Politics of Memory: Museums & Memorials in Berlin | Fall, Spring | German | 3 |
Partner Institution(s)
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU)
With a size of approximately 35,000 students, Humboldt University offers a wide variety of courses in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences. The university has 9 departments (Fakultäten) and offers 189 degree programs, 57 of which are undergraduate programs. Founded in 1810, the university established the concept of the modern university that unites teaching and research. HU’s main campus is located within walking distance of the IES Abroad Berlin Center. Most science courses, however, are held at the university’s second campus in the district of Adlershof, about 50 minutes commute by train from the Center.
For specific course offerings, visit the HU course directory and browse options.*
If you take courses at Humboldt University, you will be directly enrolled as a student and have full access to all university facilities. This may also enable you to take courses at one of various other local universities— course opportunities at other local universities can be explored on a case-by-case basis with the Academics Team in Berlin.
*Please note: Local universities' course directories are typically updated end-of August for the Fall semester, and end-of February for the Spring— course offerings vary from semester to semester, and some course options may not be available for non-degree-seeking students.
Volunteer Abroad
When you volunteer in Berlin, you have the chance to make a difference in the local community while meeting new people and gaining a new perspective on the world. If you are passionate about volunteering abroad, just let the on-site staff know at the beginning of your term. Past volunteer opportunities in Berlin include:
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Schools
Internships
Did you know that, while in Berlin, you can intern as part of your study abroad experience? With a part-time internship, you’ll gain global work experience that will increase your job readiness and give you an advantage after graduation. With an internship, you will:
- Take an important step in your career development by navigating the professional world with our support.
- Learn more about yourself both personally and professionally and build confidence in the process.
- Experience working in Berlin and gain an authentic understanding of the work culture while developing real, applicable job skills that will bolster your career readiness.
- Begin building an international network by making connections with coworkers and peers.
All of our internships are supervised and earn IES Abroad credit. You participate in a 3-credit seminar to complement the practical experience you gain during the internship for a greater understanding of work culture in your host country.
Personalized Job Placements
Once you indicate your interest in an internship, we work with you to find a placement that satisfies your interests and goals. We’ve placed students with a broad variety of organizations and businesses. Intermediate and, particularly, advanced German-language skills increase the availability and broaden the range of internship placement opportunities.
Placement Examples
Past students have interned in the following fields. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Just talk to your IES Abroad Advisor—we are always looking for new internship opportunities for our students.
- Business
- Climate Change
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Innovation
- Research
- Technology
- Welfare
Field Trips & Events
Even though your adventure starts in Berlin, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. You share a portion of the cost with IES Abroad. Here are a few possible destinations:
MUNICH
3 DAYS | FALL & SPRING
Explore Munich, the capital of Bavaria in Southern Germany, Straddling the bands of the River Isar on the fringes of the Bavarian Alps. Visit the numerous attractions of one of the most livable cities in the world, including its museums, historical sites, and traditional restaurants.
HAMBURG
2 DAYS | FALL & SPRING
Explore Hamburg, Germany’s second largest city--an economic and cultural hub with Europe’s third largest harbor, stunning modern architecture, and trendy shopping areas.
LEIPZIG
1 DAY | FALL & SPRING
Enjoy a day trip to Leipzig, a bustling city in former East Germany with a large student population and lively creative scene, where we'll explore the city's rich cultural heritage.
POTSDAM
1 DAY | fall & spring
Join us for a day trip to Potsdam, just outside of Berlin. The former residence of the Prussian Royals offers stunningly beautiful castles, parks, gardens, and scenic waterfront views.
IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Course-Related Trips
IES Abroad Berlin organizes course-related trips that complement IES Abroad courses, and contribute to your general knowledge of German culture and society. Past activities have included:
- Architectural tours of various city districts
- Visits to museums and art galleries
- Tours of Berlin's markets and multicultural neighborhoods
- Attendance at theater performances
Daily Life
Part of making you feel at home in Berlin is doing our best to help you feel safe and cared for. Whether it’s the orientation program that prepares you for what’s ahead, your housing that is well-located and comfortable, or the field trips and walking tours that take you to places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.
Orientation
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to help you prepare for your IES Abroad experience. Orientation continues throughout the semester with activities focusing on academic and cultural adjustment. Detailed information about housing, public transportation, culture, health and safety, and other important topics are also covered. Orientation continues once you arrive abroad and introduces you to the IES Abroad Berlin staff, your fellow students, and the city of Berlin.
Housing
We want to make sure that your greatest challenge is deciding which landmarks to see first or discovering the best café—not finding a place to live where you feel comfortable. We do our best to locate housing that is reflective of how the local students are living. Our goal is that when you leave Berlin, it will feel like home.
IES Abroad Berlin housing gives you the unique experience of living with local residents throughout the city. We offer you the unique experience of living with local residents throughout the city. You will live in a single room in a shared apartment with single adults, single parents, or families.
You may also live in a studio in a residence hall with other Berlin students. For this option, an additional fee may apply.
Students typically prepare their own meals in their housing or dine in student cafeterias or affordable restaurants. Meals are not included in the program cost.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events
Redefine the way you live and learn in Berlin through our cultural events, which may include visits to:
- Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
- German Historical Museum
- New National Gallery
- Jewish Museum
- Humboldt Forum
- German Parliament
Get to Know Your New City
Relax in Parks & Green Space
Although the city is known for its vibrant arts and culture, Berlin has more than 2,500 parks and gardens to stroll, cycle, swim, picnic, or just unwind in.
Visit Neighborhoods
From the alternative cafes and fabulous nightlife of Kreuzberg to the hub of art galleries, stylish restaurants, and shopping that make up Mitte, the city's neighborhoods give Berlin its unique character.
Explore Museums
Whether you are into art and design, ancient or modern history, or alternative lifestyles, Berlin is a city full of excellent museums.
Observe the Architecture
Though it was nearly destroyed during World War II, Berlin has rebuilt, with restored historic buildings juxtaposed with breathtaking modern structures.
Check Out the East Side Gallery
The longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall is now an outdoor art exhibition, featuring the work of more than 100 artists.
Program Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.
Scholarships & Aid
Featured Scholarships
Robert McNeill Need-Based International Business Scholarship
This scholarship is named in honor of Robert McNeill, member of the IES Abroad Board of Directors for 25 years (6 years as Chairman). Open to students who have an interest in international business. Majors might include management, marketing, economics, finance, international relations, and social and behavioral sciences.
Dr. William Louis Gaines Need-Based History or International Relations Scholarship
This scholarship is named in honor of Dr. William Louis Gaines, President of IES Abroad from 1974-1992. Dr. Gaines was dedicated to strengthening IES Abroad's academic framework, broadening the scope of IES Abroad locations, and securing the financial foundation of the organization.
Open to students majoring in History or International Relations.
Kathleen Kervin Diamond Endowed Scholarship
Kathleen Diamond is a consultant, entrepreneur, and business leader in the language services industry. In 1979, she founded Language Learning Enterprises, Inc. (LLE®), a full-service language company based in Washington, D.C. She is recognized as an early pioneer in Telephone Interpreting, launching LLE-LINK in the early 1990s. Over the next 20 years, under her leadership, the company grew into a dynamic, multimillion dollar corporation, serving a wide range of clients, in both the private and public sectors, across the United States, and worldwide. In 2009, Ms.
Study Abroad Scholarship for Future Engineers
The Study Abroad Scholarship for Future Engineers was established by an anonymous donor to encourage more engineering students to have the enriching, life changing experience of study abroad.
Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Our Center
While in Berlin, we want to ensure you have every opportunity to immerse yourself in new experiences. That’s why our IES Abroad Berlin staff is committed to providing outstanding academic and student support services. We take care of the details, so you can soak up every moment of your Berlin experience.
The IES Berlin Center is located in Mitte, the historical center of Berlin with vibrant cafes, restaurants, and galleries. It is within short walking distance from Humboldt University, the world-famous Museum Island, the Bradenburg Gate, and the governmental district.
Our Center is your connection point for all things IES Abroad.
- Take your IES Abroad courses in the Center’s classrooms
- Meet with staff in their offices
- Catch up with friends in the student lounges
- Get work done in the library and study spaces
- Relax in the outdoor courtyard
Other features include WiFi and printer access.
Our Staff
Barbara Finke
Center Director
Barbara holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. degree in political science from the University of Mannheim in Germany. She also studied for a year at the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore with a fellowship from the German Academic Exchange Service DAAD. Barbara conducted her Ph.D. research on the legitimacy of non-governmental organizations in global governance with a case study on women’s NGOs in the United Nations system. She has taught and published on civil society in global and European politics and on international relations theory. From 2007 to 2017, Barbara headed curricular affairs and admissions at the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, a distinguished international graduate school that focuses on public policy and international affairs.
IES Abroad Berlin Staff
Dr. Barbara Finke
Center Director
Dr. Sabine Berking
Academic Program Coordinator
Heather Ellis
Customized Programs Manager
Sascha Heller
Internship and Special Programs Manager
Rolf Staudt
Head of Administration
Britta Tonak
Head of Student Affairs
Ella Winter
Student Affairs Coordinator
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 what time zone you’re in.
In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—such as social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel only, and apartment or residence hall housing (no homestays) that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary.
How We Support You
We plan for "what if" 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.
Learn more about the support you can expect to receive on our programs, including:
- International health insurance through CISI in the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional
- 24/7 emergency support whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city
- Location-specific health and safety information presented at orienation by on-site staff
- TripTracker system allowing you to share independent travel plans in case you need to be contacted swiftly in a crisis
- A mandatory cell phone policy so that you can be contacted locally and receive any emergency updates via call or text
- Crisis drills so that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise
- And more!
Health & Safety Resources
You safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home.
Take note of ways you can maintain your health and stay safe abroad while reviewing our resources, including:
- IES Abroad MAP for Student Health, Safety & Crisis Management
- Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
- IES Abroad Student Blogs on Safety and Mental Health
- And more!
Latest from Berlin
Contact a Past Student
From budgeting tips to housing insight, IES Abroad Ambassadors volunteer their study abroad and internship experiences and advice.
