Academic Program - Presemester

Study at a European university challenges American students academically, socially, and linguistically. For this reason, the staff of the Year of Study in Munich offers its students an intensive academic and cultural orientation before the university semester begins. The presemester program lasts 4 weeks and is designed to provide effective preparation for the year in Munich. Four credit hours are granted on completion of the course work. The concept of the presemster program is based on 5 central elements:

1. Advanced German Grammar & Style
After a placement test at the beginning of the presemester, students are placed in the course which will improve their abilities most effectively. During 4 hours of daily class time, the students' language skills will be systematically improved in all relevant areas: listening, reading, writing and speaking.

2. Research Methods
In this course, students acquire methodological tools necessary to study within the German academic system. Students learn how to:

• give a stimulating presentation
• write a convincing and structured paper
• take advantage of the German library system
• and how to quote correctly:

3. Intercultural Training
Living in a new culture presents many challenges. During a number of "intercultural days", students discuss and analyze the most significant differences between the USA and Germany. They learn not only to speak the new language, but also to understand the codes and mysteries of the new culture.

4. Munich Past & Present
Through afternoon excursions to several of Munich's landmark buildings and places, students explore the city's historical development from the Middle Ages to the present. By the end of the course, students will have produced their own Stadtführer (city guide), complete with a variety of sketches, facts and background information.

5. Germany's Capital: A Trip to Berlin
At the end of the presemester the group takes off for Berlin, Germany's capital. For seven days, students have the opportunity to discover the new center of German political life and a city rich in history and culture.