SIT Serbia, Austria, Hungary: Comparative European Perspectives on Conflict and Democracy
- Location: Belgrade, Austria
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Language of Instruction: English
- Class Eligibility: Juniors
Introduction
Analyze the continent’s most pressing sociopolitical and economic challenges—including the war on Ukraine—and how they intersect with issues of mass migration, refugee crises, and the rise of far-right nationalism and populism. You will examine the threat of illiberal democracies on the future of political organizing and evaluate the impacts of civic engagement and social movements from the streets of large urban centers, where everyday citizens are demanding change.
The program’s base is the city of Belgrade, the largest urban and political center of southeast Europe known for its vibrant culture and nightlife. There, you will examine European perspectives on conflict and democracy through the lenses of EU member and non-member states, and grassroots and social movements that include Ukrainian refugees and Russians who fled to Belgrade to avoid the draft. This program includes excursions to Austria and Hungary.
- Visa:
Required.
Non-US Citizens should consult with SIT and the Office of International Student Support before applying to the program.
- Fees: Students pay Haverford tuition to Haverford. Haverford is responsible for making tuition payment to SIT. Students are responsible for paying room and board costs directly to SIT.
Academic Overview
Requirements
Students are required to enroll in an appropriate-level Serbian language course.
Academic Credit
Students must complete 16-17 semester credit hours each semester. Transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students receive a grade of a C (2.0) or above.
Curriculum
Courses
Required:
1. Conflict and the Future of Peace in Europe
2. Democracy, Illiberalism, and Humanitarianism in 21st-Century Europe
3. Serbian Language
4. Research Methods and Ethics
Option of:
1. Independent Study Project
OR
2. Internship
Course Highlights
History, Human Rights, Internship, Political Science, Peace and Conflict Studies
Note: Changes occur frequently. Students are responsible for finding the classes they need and consulting the official site of the institution.
Non-Academic Overview
Orientation
During the first week of the program important topics such as academics, health, safety, and culture are discussed.
Number of Students
20-30
Housing/Meal Plans
Homestay only. Each student lives with a carefully selected host family. Living with a host family greatly contributes to an understanding of the realities and challenges facing the Balkans today and provides an excellent opportunity to improve language skills. All meals are provided. While traveling, other accommodations during the program may include guest houses and hostels.
Haverford students may not opt for independent off-campus housing – that is, housing not arranged by the program.
Notes
Additional Resources
- Support for LGTBQIA+ Students
- SIT Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Resources
- Mental Health & Self Care While Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
Options
- Semester
Dates
- Semester I: Early September to mid-December
- Semester II: Early February to mid-May
Application Deadlines
- Semester I: March 1
- Semester II: October 5