University of Salzburg | American Institute for Foreign Study (Salzburg, Austria)

Highlights

• Study in a culturally diverse city located in the heart of Europe
• Courses are offered in English and German; previous knowledge of German is not required
• Trips to London, Munich, Vienna, and Innsbruck are included in the program fee
• The on-site Resident Director provides support and assists with academic planning, housing, and cultural activities

Overview

St. Norbert College partners with the American Institute for Foreign Studies (AIFS) to offer students the opportunity to study in Salzburg, Austria. The University of Salzburg, founded in 1622, welcomes students from around the world.

Salzburg is one of the most elegant and interesting cities in Europe. Renowned throughout Europe for its international arts and performance festivals, Salzburg is a celebration of music (and the birthplace of Mozart). Both compact and accessible, the city also offers beer gardens, cafes, lakes, mountains, and fresh air. Additionally, since Salzburg is located in the heart of Europe, travel is both easy and efficient.

Testimonials

• As an International Business and Language Areas Studies major, being able to take economics and political science courses abroad widened my worldview. It's helpful to view these issues from different perspectives. (Ja, Fall 2008)

Orientation

Every semester begins with a 3-day visit to London en route to Salzburg. (The group flight must be purchased for this option.) A professional guide introduces students to some of London's most famous landmarks.

Once in Salzburg, each semester is preceded by a two-week orientation, during which the AIFS staff members assist students in adapting to their new Austrian life. Emphasis is placed on academic counseling, course selection, and registration. A program of cultural activities is also offered in order to introduce students to the wealth of cultural and recreational activities in Salzburg.

While previous German language study is not required, students must take a mandatory two-week intensive language preparation course during orientation. Students without previous knowledge of German enroll in GR101: Elementary German. Students with previous knowledge in German take a placement exam upon arrival to determine the appropriate level.

Coursework

• Language: German and English

Following orientation, students generally choose from courses (in English and/or German) that are offered by the University of Salzburg especially for AIFS students. Subject areas include: German language, international relations, business and economics, and arts and humanities. Tuition also includes one (optional) university sports class of your choice, which is a great way to meet other students. Sports offered include: basketball, aerobics, fencing, tae kwon do, karate, and tennis.   

Qualified students may enroll in any course offered by the University of Salzburg where enrollment is not limited. Students must have at least two years of college-level German to take regular university courses (in German). The university also offers English literature courses, along with several foreign language courses, that are popular with AIFS students. Please note that this requires an additional month in Salzburg and a $900 fee.

Accommodations

Students select one of two options for housing before leaving the United States:

• Residence Hall: Students stay in double rooms with a private bathroom in one of several residences located throughout the city. Requests for Austrian or international roommates are subject to availability.

• Austrian Homestay: The homestay experience provides the best opportunity for students to learn German and to immerse themselves in the culture. Students usually have a double room, shared with another AIFS student, in an apartment or house located outside of the city center. 

Additionally, for students' convenience, AIFS can arrange round-trip airfare (including all fuel surcharges, taxes, and fees), meet students at the arrival airport(s), and provide transportation to/from the program site. As with all SNC Study Abroad programs, students are responsible for transportation costs. The group flight fee (from Chicago) for the University of Salzburg program is $1240 (subject to change).

Calendar

• Fall 2012: September 7 - December 14, 2012
• Spring 2013: February 8 - May 30, 2013

A complete itinerary, including dates for the academic excursions, is also available for each semester (2012/2013).

Admissions

• 2.5 cumulative GPA

Visa Information

A visa is official permission, granted by the authorities of the country where you wish to study or visit, which allows you to enter and remain in that country for a specific purpose and for a designated period of time. You cannot apply for a student visa until you have received an acceptance letter from your institution abroad. You are responsible for applying for the correct visa and paying all necessary fees.

Austria requires that you have a student visa in order to enter the country. You should familiarize yourself with the visa application process by visiting the web site of the Austrian Consulate in Chicago.

Please note that visa requirements change frequently. Research your country's requirements or contact your study abroad advisor for the most current information.

Disclaimer: Program information is subject to change.

Fees

• SNC Tuition
• SNC Room
• $400 Administrative Fee

Fees Include

• Tuition
• Housing
• SNC Study Abroad Health Insurance
• Discounted Transportation Pass
• Subsidized Meals
• Academic Excursions
• On-site Resident Director

Additional Expenses

• Application Fee ($95)
• Refundable Housing Deposit ($250)
• Group Flight Fee ($1240; subject to change)
• Some meals

• Courses
• Credit/Grading Policy & Pre-Approved Courses

• AIFS Austria
• Scholarships
• Application
• For Parents

For more information, contact:

Jeremy Doughty
Study Abroad Advisor