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England Study Abroad Modern Civilization

Follow the Path of Contemporary Europe from Post-War Prague and Berlin to Modern Day London and Paris


The fast-paced Modern Civilization summer study abroad program is designed for motivated students interested in international relations, globalization and the global economy, European politics, journalism and debate. Over the course of the three-week program, you will examine major developments in European history from World War II to the fall of the Berlin Wall, as well as the formation of the modern European Union. Each exciting and engaging class will take place on location throughout the four celebrated European capitals!

The Modern Civilization Program is a pre-college summer study abroad experience designed for high school students looking to get more from their summer than sitting in a classroom. Students in this program are afforded all benefits of cultural immersion, while touring some of Europe’s most dynamic cities.

ITINERARY + EXCURSIONS

Prague, Berlin (Week 1)
Our academic journey begins in Prague. Often referred to as the "Paris of the East," this incredible city serves to introduce students to the major ideas, trends and themes which characterized post-war Europe. As the week progresses, students move on to their second destination of Berlin, an ideal site for discussions on postwar social transformations, the rise of Western Europe and the failure of Communism.

London (Week 2)
London plays host to the second week of the program, which examines the impact of globalization on European cultures and societies. The combination of its incredible cultural diversity, with its ranking as one of the world’s chief financial centers makes London the ideal location for the group’s discussions on globalization, the global economy, and global culture.

Paris (Week 3)
Week three is spent in Paris and addresses the formation of the European Union and the effect of globalization on contemporary E.U. policy making. This final week is filled with on-site visits to the city’s many world heritage sites, in addition to such international organizations as UNESCO and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

All students are enrolled in the Modern European History course and choose one elective as their specialty focus.

Modern European History (major)
This course is designed to help students contextualize the major themes and trends set forth during the program orientation. The course takes place on location, as students trace the evolution of post war European politics, society and culture, from Prague to Paris. Students complete reading assignments, in order to prepare for the daily lectures. Debate-style discussion groups and investigative homework assignments encourage you to constantly think outside the box and push your critical thinking skills to the limit.

Headline News: International Relations and Current World Affairs (elective)
Increased interdependence between nations, coupled with advances in technology, has forever changed the nature of media coverage. In an age when information can be accessed instantaneously, it is more important than ever for the global citizen to learn how to develop and define his/her own views while expanding their base of knowledge. Lectures provide historical background, while lively discussions on important themes and exercises in investigative journalism develop critical thinking skills.

Globalization and the Global Economy (elective)
In order to keep up with the ever-changing pace of international relations, students today must have an in-depth understanding of the nature of the global economy. This course is an interdisciplinary study of the political and economic forces that dictate international activity. Students explore issues relating to increased economic interdependence between nations.

* This is an experiential academic program that requires a high level of motivation on the part of the students. At the same time, given the breadth of the topics, the program does not set unrealistic goals or require an excessive amount of homework. Rather, it seeks to help the students grasp fundamental ideas and inspire them to explore these subjects in their elective courses and future studies.

HOUSING

Throughout the program, the group will live in 3-star centrally located hotels. All hotels are carefully chosen and visited by Abbey Road staff. Students will share double or triple rooms.

DAILY SCHEDULE

We begin each weekday with the Modern European History Course. After lunch, students attend their afternoon elective or participate in guided workshops and seminars. Students are fortunate to have many options, which vary based on their current location. Outside of class time, they will be able to choose from athletic, cultural and recreational activities, in addition to free time and the opportunity to explore the contemporary side of each host city.


Modern Civilization England Study Abroad
England Study Abroad Modern Civilization "She came home with new friends from all over the country and got to know people from all walks of life. It's also changed her thinking toward college, thinking maybe she'd like something that could lend itself toward international travel. [It was] a wonderful opportunity to really broaden her horizons."

Stephanie P., mother of Kimmy D.
England Study Abroad Modern Civilization
England Study Abroad Modern Civilization England Study Abroad Modern Civilization
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