Studying European culture in Vienna offers an immersive experience in a city rich in history, art, and tradition. The IES Abroad Center, located in a stunning 18th-century palace, provides a unique setting for students to explore Vienna’s contributions to European culture. With courses available in English and German, students at all language levels can connect with the city’s cultural heritage, as well as participate in internships and field placements to network with locals and gain practical experience. Additionally, courses include excursions throughout Austria, offering a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse regions and historical landmarks.
European Society, Politics & Culture
At a Glance
Program Dates:
- Spring 2026: January 19 - May 09
- Fall 2026: August 24 - December 12
Credits:
Estimated Cost:
Visa Required:
Housing:
Language of Instruction:
Language Prerequisites:
Part-Time Internship (Optional):
About the Program
Spring 2027
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Program Advisor
Alicia Emerich
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!
About the Destination
Why Vienna?
When Vienna becomes your classroom, the entire city turns into your learning environment. Immerse yourself in the field of politics and international organizations, followed by a visit to the UN, OSCE, or OPEC, engaging with global issues in the very heart of diplomacy. As you explore Vienna’s art history, renowned galleries, and museums, you will lose yourself in the masterpieces that shaped the world of art. Our courses are designed to maximize your experience by integrating the city’s abundant historical, artistic, and cultural sites into your studies. Welcome to study abroad in Vienna, where every lesson becomes an unforgettable adventure!
The Student Experience
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Program Dates
Spring 2026
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Fall 2026
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Spring 2027
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
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 unique courses that explore Austrian History, Culture, Art, and many other topics through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives both in and out of class.
Courses
You'll take 15–19 credits per semester and all courses are worth 3 credits unless otherwise specified. Language courses are taught in German, and all other courses are taught in English unless otherwise noted. Academic programming is scheduled five days a week.
If you have taken fewer than 4 semesters of college-level German or the equivalent, you'll enroll in IES Abroad courses in English. If you have advanced German language proficiency, you may enroll in IES Abroad courses in German and English.
You create your academic experience by selecting from the following required and optional program components:
- IES Abroad German language course (required, 4 credits)
- IES Abroad area studies courses (3-4 credits)
- IES Abroad Internship (includes internship and seminar, 3 credits)
German-Taught Area Studies Courses
IES Abroad teaches the following area studies courses in German. Please note that these courses are open to students who test into GR401 and GR403. Students who test into GR351 will be considered for these courses on a case-by-case basis.
- CU321 Austria in Text and Film I: From the Turn of the Century to 1945 (Fall)
- DR341 Vienna Theater I (Fall)
- IB/GR333 Wirtschaftsdeutsch / Let's Talk Business (Spring)
- CU322 Austria in Text and Film II: 1945 to Present (Spring)
- DR342 Vienna Theater II (Spring)
- CU345 The Cultural Heritage of Austria (Fall & Spring)
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.
NOTE: 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. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.
IES Abroad Courses
Anthropology (2)
| Course name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AN/SO 328 - The Culture of Immigration | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| AN/SO 345 - Comparative Austrian and European Youth Cultures: Theories and Practices | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
Requirements
- 18 years of age
- In good standing at your home school
- Sophomore, junior, or senior standing when program begins
- 2.75 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 27.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- No previous German language study required for students enrolling in English-taught courses
- 4 semesters or the equivalent of college-level German required for students enrolling in German-taught courses
- 5 semesters or the equivalent of college-level German required for spring semester students enrolling in German-taught courses
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 Vienna Center is an elegant, early 18th-century palace called the Palais Corbelli, and is in a bustling central part of the city. Whether you’re visiting any number of the museums, taking in a show at a historic theater, or finding a park to study in, the Center is your study abroad hub.
IES Abroad Vienna Staff
Housing
Shared Apartment
Share an apartment with fellow students in Vienna. Our fully furnished apartments can accommodate up to five roommates and are equipped with 1-2 twin beds per bedroom and WiFi. You will have access to washers, dryers, a shared kitchen, and bathroom, as well as common areas designed for socializing and relaxation. No meals are provided for this housing option.
Field Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Vienna, 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.
Part-Time Internships
Did you know that you can intern as part of your study abroad experience in Vienna? 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:
We offer supervised internships that enable you to earn academic credits. You will participate in a 3-credit seminar, which complements the practical experience gained during the internship helping you better understand work life in your host country. Internships generally include 8-12 hours per week of work. Proficiency in German language is not mandatory but can be helpful in securing certain internship placements.
Internship Tracks
Arts & Culture
Business
Public Service
Teaching Field Experience
Program Cost
Spring 2026
Fall 2026
Spring 2027
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
$7.9 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.
Orientation
Health & Safety
With 75 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 your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identity Resources
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.
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