This summer, Auburn University students discovered calculus through Michelangelo and geology through Roman rocks in their classrooms inside a 13th century Italian palace. Next summer students will have even more options to pursue coursework overseas through the Auburn Abroad Core Curriculum Program in Rome.

Launched in summer 2016, the Core Curriculum Program allows students to choose two from several courses required of all students such as communications, geosciences, math and political science while spending five weeks exploring one of Italy’s most historic and iconic cities. In summer 2017, offerings will expand to also include Honors designated courses, including POLI 1057 Honors Global Politics, COMM 1007 Honors Public Speaking, MATH 1617 Honors Calculus I, PHIL 1027 Honors Introduction to Ethics and SCMH 1010 Honors Concepts of Science. In addition to their six to eight credit hours, students also take a non-credit Survival Italian course to help them better understand and navigate the local culture. Read more about the requirements and view the application.

Image via Auburn Abroad
Image provided by Auburn Abroad

Auburn’s strategic plan calls for internationalization of the campus, and study abroad programs are one vital way to provide students with global experiences.

“We know that students who study abroad gain essential skills such as adaptability, communication, intercultural awareness and problem-solving,” said Deborah Weiss, Director of Auburn Abroad. “When students have the opportunity to go abroad early in their academic careers, they’re able to use those skills in the classroom as well as in their future employment. It brings a whole new perspective to their college experience.”

Auburn offers faculty-led study abroad programs in virtually every academic department. These programs are typically designed for students in a particular major. The Core Curriculum Program accepts students beginning in their sophomore year and is open to all students, regardless of major.

Interested students can view the new video of last year’s program to get a taste of the activities in Rome including tours of Florence, a food tour of Rome and student testimonials.

https://youtu.be/SsUdY-n2geY

The 2017 Core Curriculum Program will run May 15 through June 15. Applications are due February 15, 2017, and students are encouraged to apply early. Students interested in any study abroad program are invited to attend the 30-minute Study Abroad 101 session offered Thursdays at 3 p.m. and Fridays at 11 a.m. in Foy Hall room 242.

(Written by Auburn Abroad and Exchange Programs)