Academic Focus
This program is designed for students at high beginner language level and above looking to refine and cultivate their language skills, while taking a more in-depth look into the Germanic culture. You will take one German language course which will focus on listening comprehension, conversation, and grammar. For your second course, you will choose from one of two electives; Berlin studies or German studies.
The Berlin Studies elective is designed for students who are not only interested in learning the German language but are also interested in topics concerning German history, society and culture within the context of Berlin. Lectures, seminars and field trips are offered for six hours per week and are taught in a combination of English and German.
The German Studies elective is designed for students at an advanced language level and focuses on German literature, theater and culture. You will attend lectures, seminars, field trips and workshops, all taught in German, as you study the German culture.
As a compliment to your classroom studies, you will also have the unique opportunity to participate in cultural visits and field trips in and around Berlin with university professors and German students. Your classes combined with these hands on activities will help improve your understanding of the German language and culture.
The 4-week summer courses meet for 104 contact hours each and are generally worth 6 - 7 credits in the US semester system. However, it is up to the discretion of your academic advisor how much credit will be awarded.
Schedule Summary
Your German language course will meet two hours a day, Monday through Friday, in the morning. Your elective course will meet for six hours per week in the afternoon.
Course Registration
You will begin your session with a placement exam. You will then be placed in classes with other students of your own language level. The university offers German language courses at five different levels: Basic, Intermediate A, Intermediate B, Advanced A and Advanced B. In order to ensure that you receive credit for the level that you place into, it is in your best interest to have courses at several levels approved by your academic advisor prior to departure.
Course selection will take place prior to your departure for Germany. You will be required to submit your course selections to the CEA headquarter office prior to departure for Berlin. To aid in the registration process, it is in your best interest to have courses, including alternates, approved by your academic advisor prior to departure.
To learn more about course requirements for your particular session as well as information regarding your host institution, you may click on the appropriate links above.
