IES Freiburg: Language and Area Studies
- Location: Freiburg, Germany
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Language of Instruction: German
- Class Eligibility: Juniors and seniors
Introduction
Freiburg is a city of curving streets, medieval architecture, and beautiful cathedrals. With a young population and a small-town feel, Freiburg offers many opportunities for cultural integration, making it the perfect place to study German. A center for progressive thinking on environmental issues, Freiburg is also known for taking the lead in the development of eco-friendly technologies and architecture. The city now attracts researchers and environmental organizations from around the world. Located on the edge of the scenic Black Forest, an hour away from the towering Alpine mountains, France, Switzerland, and other exciting regions of Germany, Freiburg is a year-round sports center and an ideal starting point for exploring Europe.
Steeped in rich history, Freiburg is also a modern bustling town and home to the renowned Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, one of Germany’s top universities, and takes great pride in its traditions. Founded in the 15th century, the faculty and researchers have made history in numerous disciplines. Today the University is flourishing more than ever—it ranks among the top 8 universities in Germany and was recently awarded the Excellence Initiative by the German government for promoting science and research.
- Visa:
Not required; must obtain a temporary residence permit. Non-US citizens should consult with IES and the Office of International Student Support before applying to the program.
- Fees: Students pay Haverford tuition and room to Haverford College. Haverford will then be responsible for submitting payment to the program.
Academic Overview
Requirements
Students must have completed four semesters of college-level German (intermediate or equivalent). Students must have taken an appropriate level German course no more than one year prior to the program start date. Some university courses are not available to sophomores. Students must also enroll in an appropriate-level IES German language course. Courses at the university during the fall semester run from October through February. Therefore, German majors (and minors) who require major/minor credit may wish to go abroad during the spring semester or for the full year.
Academic Credit
Students must carry 15 credit hours per semester. Transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students receive a grade of a C (2.0) or above.
Curriculum
The program provides rigorous undergraduate study in German Language.
Course Highlights
Art History, Business, Communications, Cultural Studies, Economics, Film Studies, History, International Business, Literature, Theater, Media Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, Studio Art, Music and Voice. Wide range of courses in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences offered at the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg and Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg. Art courses offered at Zeichen-und Malschule Georg Schell and music courses offered at Jazz and Rock Schule Freiburg.
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
Three-week orientation program on language and life in Freiburg.
Number of Students
Approximately 40-60 students attend each semester.
Housing/Meal Plans
Apartments – Students live in a private single-occupancy room in a coed suite with a shared kitchen and bath. Suites are shared with German and international students and have Internet access. Students usually prepare meals at home or dine in Freiburg’s affordable student cafeterias. Meals are not included in the program fee.
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
- IES Abroad Student Diversity & Access
- Mental Health & Self Care While Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
Options
- Semester/Year
Dates
- Semester I: Early September to mid-December
- Semester II: Mid-February to late June/July
Application Deadlines
- Semester I: March 1
- Semester II: October 5