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Study Abroad

Berlin Consortium

Johns Hopkins University participates in the Berlin Consortium for German Studie (BCGS). The program includes intense preparation in the German language and culture, participation in the course offerings of the Freie Universität Berlin as well as other Berlin universities, tutoring, and advisement. Students interested in this program should contact the chair of the German program as early in their studies at Hopkins as possible.

This program is open to students from all fields of study who meet the following qualifications:

  • At least sophomore standing
  • Two years of college-level German or the equivalent
  • A minimum B average in all course work

A high level of independence is required of students on the BCGS program. Students interested in getting to know German students are encouraged to be involved, to play a sport or join a club. Cultural activities and field trips support the academic program. Some students also intern between the fall and spring semesters, and occasionally during the semester.

Complete program information, including requirements and application instructions, can be found on the Global Education Office website.

Intersession & Summer Study Abroad Opportunities

The German program has relationships with several organizations that offer summer study programs in Germany. Many opportunities exist for students to experience German culture and to improve their language skills over the summer. For more information, contact Deborah McGee Mifflin.

FUBiS International Summer University at the Freie Universität Berlin
The International Summer University offers German language classes for all levels as well as a variety of courses taught in English on different topics ranging from philosophy and literature to film and architecture.

interDaF am Herder Institut Leipzig
InterDaF provides intensive language training for intermediate and advanced learners. The program also includes cultural topics and excursions to Weimar and Dresden.

International Winter & Summer School Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
The Humbodt University in Berlin offers German language classes for all levels as well as seminars in English on cultural, political, and literary topics. The program includes an intersession in January.

iik Bayreuth
The Bayreuth Summer University for Intercultural German Studies combines the acquisition of language skills with regional studies and intercultural communication.

Sommerhochschule Wien
This program is similar to FUBiS in Berlin but it’s in Vienna, Austria. Offers two two-week sessions of German language courses and English courses on European Studies.

ActiLingua Vienna
ActiLingua is an institute located in Vienna that offers general language training for all levels, as well as specialized language courses such as business German or university preparation programs.

Vetted Programs

Summer German Immersion Programs in the U.S.

These stateside immersion programs offer between three- and six-week immersion courses. This is an excellent option for those unable to go abroad.

Resources