This English-taught program explores topics in Urban Studies, Architecture, and Environmental Studies in Berlin, a city that has both rebuilt and redesigned itself over the past century.
Course-related trips are integrated to provide a first-hand look at Berlin’s architectural innovations, methods for integrating sustainable design, and various historical and political movements. Trips to other cities in Germany round out the program, and allow you to explore the culture and architecture of Germany in a comparative context.
After you are admitted, refer to the Travel Dates section of the Predeparture Information in your MyIESabroad account before booking travel.
To ensure that you are abiding by German laws and regulations, contact your IES Abroad advisor if you plan to arrive in Europe before the start date of your program or to depart Europe later than the end date of your program.
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 unique courses that explore Architecture, History, and Metropolitan Studies, and other topics through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class. Listed below are the course options for the IES Abroad Berlin Summer Metropolitan Studies & Architecture Program. You are required to take two courses (6 credits), but may enroll in a third course (9 credits) for an additional fee.
German language is not a required course and is offered at the beginning and intermediate levels.
This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account.
We offer day trips that complement your IES Abroad courses and contribute to a general knowledge of German culture and society. Past activities have included:
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 residents are living. Our goal is that when you leave Berlin, it will feel like home.
Homestays - Live with local residents throughout the city. Hosts may be single adults, single parents, families, or German university students. No meals are provided.
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 that take you to places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services. This is just one of the things we’re known for.
You will spend your first 2 days in Berlin participating in the mandatory, comprehensive IES Abroad Berlin Summer program orientation. IES Abroad staff will guide you through the following activities during this time:
Additionally, CORE, IES Abroad's Comprehensive Orientation and Re-entry Experience, begins during orientation and continues throughout the semester with activities focused on goal achievement, cultural adjustment, and preparing for the return home.
Redefine the way you live and learn in Berlin through our cultural events, which may include:
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. These optional trips are subsidized by IES Abroad, though extra costs may apply. Here are a few possible destinations:
Potsdam1 day | SummerVisit the capital and crown jewel of the state of Brandenburg, and admire Sanssouci’s fabulous palaces and surrounding gardens.
Baltic Sea3 days | SummerVisit one of the nicest and most charming areas of Germany. Whether you are looking for nice white beaches, wanting to explore history and culture of Hanseatic cities like Stralsund or simply enjoy undisturbed nature and breathtaking scenery, you will find it all on the Baltic Sea.
About the Center
The IES Abroad Berlin Center is located in Mitte, the central district of Berlin, and is within easy walking distance of the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Museum Island, the Brandenburg Gate, the Berliner Dom, and other sights. Features include:
The three IES Abroad programs at the Berlin Center are conducted on two separate floors of the building.
IES Abroad Staff
John SchulzeProgram Manager
Gosia PiechowiakStudent Affairs, Housing and Field Trip Coordinator
Sabine BerkingAcademic Coordinator
What is it really like to live in Berlin? Check out our virtual tour of all the places you’ll come to know and love when you study abroad there—GO!
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