Freiburg - European Union

Looking ahead to Spring 2022, there will likely be some aspects of the pandemic that we are still navigating—and that’s okay! Program details may need to pivot as conditions shift, but throughout that experience our commitment to do right by you will guide the way. While it might look different from other study abroad terms, that doesn’t mean Spring 2022 won’t be the most incredible semester of your life! 

We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live, learn, and have some fun abroad. Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Spring 2022 Health & Safety page. 

Academics & Partner Universities

All your courses this spring will be taught by world-cass IES Abroad faculty at our Center, many of whom also teach or have taught at renowned, international universities. The Spring 2022 Course List is below, and you may find syllabi for these courses in the "Academics" tab.

• PO 250/350/450- EU Studies Integrative Seminar (mandatory)
• EC/PO 246-EU Policies in Practice
• EC 353 International Economic Relations of the EU
• CU/PO 334 Migration, Ethnic Minorities, and Multiculturalism in Europe
• HS 344 Europe: The Dynamics of Integration
• IR/PO 332 The EU and the Muslim World
• IR/PO 370 EU-U.S. Relations: A Multidimensional Partnership
• LW/PO 481 The Power and Fragility of Human Rights in Modern Society
• * PO 355 Shifting Paradigms from Domestic to European Politics: Germany in the EU
• GR 101/301/351/353 German Language Courses
• IN 395 Internship Seminar: Intercultural Management and Global Leadership

*taught in German

Health & Safety Protocols

We’re making sure that your learning experience is a safe one so you can focus on the topic at hand. IES Abroad is taking proactive measures based on the local health and safety guidelines of your study abroad location. As more information for Freiburg becomes available, we will provide updates here and in your predeparture guide, which you’ll gain access to after applying. In the meantime, review safety measures we have taken with students this fall, some of which may extend into your experience. 

• limiting class enrollment sizes
• adjusting space layout and room choice
• and promoting student/faculty use of personal protective equipment (PPE). 

In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—previous examples include social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel, and apartment or residence hall housing rather than homestays that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary. These may change by term, so be sure to check back. 

Many countries are requiring proof of vaccination to access public and private spaces, such as restaurants, libraries, museums, festivals, sporting events, and other indoor spaces or gatherings of people. In some cases, students will be required to obtain a “Green Pass” or other health pass as official proof of vaccination, which is required upon entry to many locations. We will provide more information about your host country’s entry and green pass requirements prior to your departure through the Predeparture Information and virtual orientation sessions.

We know stepping into the unknown is part of your study abroad experience but know that you’re never alone and we’ll always have your back.

Housing

You’ll stay in a clean, comfortable housing where we’ve taken the utmost safety measures, including single occupancy rooms as needed. Learn more about the overarching housing policies for Spring 2022. 

Field Trips

So much of the study abroad learning experience happens outside of the classroom. Our field trips and course-related excursions help you explore significant sites and key institutions in Europe, adding real-life context to what you’ve read about in textbooks for years. We will be running the program this spring with three multi-day out-of-country trips, with modifications to destinations and visits.

This Spring '22 term, these trips will be five-days in length, including a stop in Brussels, and will include guest speakers, visits to key EU institutions, and other experiences that connect to the integrative seminar, Model EU, and program curriculum. Please note that some access to institutions and previous site visits is currently prohibited due to COVID regulations (i.e. students cannot currently visit the European Commission in Brussels) but in those cases, we will incorporate additional day trips and virtual visits to account for any 'missed' opportunities. 

Our Center

Our Center in Freiburg is your go-to spot for classes, student services, and information. Serving as your campus away from campus, you can feel safe going to class or checking in with an IES Abroad staff member because, at a minimum, IES Abroad Centers will undergo daily cleaning and disinfection by professional cleaning services.

Cost

Cost details for Spring 2022 can be found on the “Cost” tab. Be sure to click through the linked total to view a thorough cost-breakdown PDF. Consider those 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 considerations.

Go Ahead & Get Started…With a Refund Policy that has your Back

As a mission-driven, not-for-profit, we are guided by two priorities as we navigate Spring 2022: to leave the door open for your opportunity to study abroad, and to strive to keep you safe and healthy. So, what’s our advice? Give yourself the chance to have an incredible adventure—even if it’s a bit different than planned!—and know we’re right alongside you as the details unfold.

And thanks to our Spring 2022 Refund Policy, there’s no commitment just yet. What’s more, once you start an application, you’ll be in the loop and hear directly from us if any changes are made to your program.