CERGE-EI
Overview
The Center for Economic Research and Graduate Education of Charles University (CERGE) was founded in 1991 as an American-style Ph.D. program in Economics taught entirely in English. In 1992, the Economics Institute of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (EI) was created as an economics research institution, seeking to carry out topical research of the highest international standards. The Undergraduate Program in Central European Studies (UPCES) evolved as a joint effort of CERGE-EI and Charles University striving for a common goal: a top quality undergraduate educational experience focused on integral issues of Central Europe. These two highly reputable institutions work together to ensure American, Czech, and other European students a challenging educational environment in which they learn from experienced faculty, as well as from one another.
Study abroad students take part in courses organized specifically for UPCES. Each classroom is divided into one-half American and one-half European. The European segment comes from both students of Charles University and other European Erasmus students studying abroad in Prague. This integration guarantees that students take their courses in an international, multi-cultural environment. Participants of UPCES are welcome to enjoy the added benefit of the many activities (seminars, workshops and panel discussions) taking place in the same building related to the CERGE-EI Ph.D. program and the ongoing research activities of the Economics Institute.
Czech & Prague
Since time immemorial, the Czech lands have been the crossroads of European cultures. The Czech Republic, among the youngest in the family of European countries, was born on January 1st, 1993, when the Czechoslovak Federal Republic split into two independent states, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Since May, 2004, the Czech Republic has been a member of the European Union; it has been a full-fledged NATO member since 2002. (The country has not adopted the Euro yet, however, and still uses its national currency, the Czech crown.)
Prague is a magical city of bridges, cathedrals, gold-tipped towers and church domes, whose image has been mirrored in the surface of the Vltava River for more than ten centuries. It is also a modern European metropolis full of energy, music, and art. It's a city of contrasts: Serene green isles in the river and peaceful parks draping the city's seven hills are just steps away from the architectural treasures and bustling street life of the city center. Prague's atmosphere is both intimate and romantic, and quite impossible to forget once you visit. One of the most breath-taking, as well as photogenic, views of the Castle opens up from the very head of Charles Bridge. The Czech metropolis abounds in theatres, concert and exhibition halls, museums and galleries. Prague truly offers something for everyone, and each of its many faces has its own special charm.
Courses
The semester program consists of three required core courses, including elementary Czech language, and two elective courses which may come from either the core or elective course listing. A typical course load is 16 credits. For course descriptions and listing, please see the CERGE-EI website. Courses are taught in English and the classes are small, so courses are interactive. Courses and grades from CERGE-EI will be posted to your academic record and factored into your overall GPA at SU.
Travel
Travel is not included in the cost of the program. You are responsible for getting to Prague by the program start date. Round-trip airfare is estimated at $900.
Living arrangements
You will spend your first week in a hotel arranged by CERGE-EI but paid for by you. During that time you will be provided with a list of realtors that past students have used to find available flats. It is up to you, with the help of the staff, to secure housing for the rest of the semester. Plan to spend approximately $2,880 for housing for the semester with double occupancy per flat though three students per flat are more common.
Visa
A student visa is required for U.S. citizens. This process can take 60-90 days so it is important that you apply for the visa as soon as you receive the appropriate paperwork from CERGE. The CERGE staff will assist you as much as possible but you are responsible for applying for their visa in a timely manner. Non-US citizen students may require a visa to enter the Czech Republic. Please contact CERGE for requirements.
Cost & Aid
You will pay SU tuition and can apply all SU financial aid except Work Study. You are also charged a program fee of approximately $800 (Spring 07) that includes: on-site orientation, excursions, program activities, International ID card and social events during the semester. It does not include your round-trip airfare, room and board or personal effects and incidentals. For those, you should plan to spend approximately $3300 plus the cost of your flight. SU Abroad merit-based scholarships are available for this program. ESF students may be charged a supplemental fee for attendance.
How to apply
Applying to this program is a two-part process. Turn in all parts to the SU Abroad office by September 24 for the spring semester and March 15 for the fall semester.
Part 1: Syracuse University
- SU Abroad application online at http://suabroad.syr.edu
- $60 application fee payable to Syracuse University
- Academic Recommendation
- Study Abroad Approval form - signed by the Dean’s office of your home college
- Download application at: http://www.cerge-ei.cz/abroad/admission/
- Official transcript - 3.0 cumulative GPA required
- Resume (see application for details)
- Copy of Passport (if available)
- Flat Acknowledgement Form (if under 21)
- One passport size photo
For more information contact:
Deb Goddard – dsgoddar@syr.edu – 443-2528
Ginny Pellam-Montalbano - gapellam@syr.edu - 443-9417
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