The EU Studies Summer Program in Brussels offers US students the opportunity to study the emergence of a united Europe in its dynamic heart. Running from July 9 to August 10, the program will consist of two courses plus an EU simulation for a total of 12 quarter credits (or 8 semester credits). The Program is administered by the European Commission-sponsored EU Center of Excellence at the University of Washington (Seattle), and is hosted by the Universite' Libre de Bruxelles (ULB). This five-week program features lectures and seminars by leading experts on the EU from both sides of the Atlantic, as well as site visits to major EU institutions and organizations involved in European integration. In addition, the program is supplemented by cultural and social events in and around the city, as well as a field trip to Luxembourg. Participating students will also receive a three-day Benelux rail pass. Brussels' central location allows students to easily explore the area's rich history and culture at their own pace. The city is famous for its excellent dining, and the program will include two special group dinners. Field trip costs are covered by program fees. Discover the new Europe through the EU Studies Program in Brussels!
Class of 2011
Quotes from participating students:
"Fun intensive and informative" - "The program was truly an incredible opportunity to learn more about the EU in depth" - "It was a great program, I learned a lot" - "Fantastic opportunity to come to Europe and learn about the EU from inside-out" - "Excellent" - "Walks on water" " I felt very honored to discuss with policy makers and parliament members about complex issues like integration" - "One of the most memorable experiences"
Courses & Program
The program includes two courses: "Current EU Policy Debates", taught by Dr. Christine Ingebritsen (Scandinavian Studies Professor, UW), and "EU Institutions: Views from inside the Brussels Complex" taught by Dr. Peter Hobbing (former Principal Administrator, European Commission). In addition, students will participate in a European Union simulation. The two courses are 5 credits each and the EU simulation is 2 credits. Students will be awarded 12 UW credits upon successful completion of the program.
Facilities & Housing
Courses will be held at the Institute for European Studies on the ULB campus. Students will have access to the ULB library and other campus facilities. During the first two days of the program students will be housed at the Sleep Well Youth Hostel in downtown Brussels. Beginning on July 12th students will be accommodated in single-room student dorms in the "Residence Elio Conte" building on the ULB Solbosch campus.
The Elio Conte dorms are located close to the Institute for European Studies (IEE), where the program seminars will be held. The residences provide internet access, private bathrooms and showers, plus a shared kitchen. The dorms are conveniently located near mass transit and are just a short walking distance from numerous restaurants and shops.
ULB Solbosch camus map
Student's dorm accommodation costs are supported by funds from the European Commission through the Seattle EU Center of Excellence's grant.
Eligibility
The program is open to all upper level undergraduate students with an interest in the European Union enrolled in degree programs at US universities. Applicants should submit a program application form, a two-page statement of purpose, and 2 letters of recommendation to the International Programs and exchanges office (IPE) by February 24th, 2012. At least one of the two letters of recommendation must be written by a faculty member at your institution. A second letter can be written by a TA, or supervisor, provided they can comment upon your academic abilities, and on how you can contribute to, and benefit from, a study abroad program. The center may conduct interviews as part of the selections process and will notify all candidates of the program's decisions in writing.
Please note: To be considered for this program students are also required to send copies of their transcripts, by the application deadline, to the EU Center of Excellence at the address listed below. University of Washington students can submit unofficial transcripts. Students from other institutions should submit official copies of their transcripts.
To apply for this program please click here!
Program Costs
The program fee for 2011 is $2,875. The program fee includes instructional costs, the Benelux tour-rail pass, program trips & events. The program fee does not include airfare, meals, textbooks, personal expenses or the fees charged by IPE: $275 for UW students or $475 for non-UW students.
Financial Aid & Grants
Grant funding is available on a competitive basis to students on this program. UW students are eligible to apply for the quarterly International Programs & Exchanges (IPE) scholarship. Non-UW students may also qualify for funding from their home institution.
