The 2012 Communication Arts Program in Scotland runs for two weeks during January semester.  Tentative dates for 2012 are January 5-21.  The program is based at Edinburgh Central on Leith Walk in the city of Edinburgh.  Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, a city steeped in more than 900 years of battle for autonomy that has made it one of Europe’s most diverse ethnic populations and vibrant cultural scenes.  Edinburgh is the winner of 10 major Best City awards in the past six years, offering a rich history, modern lifestyle and backdrop for the largest cultural event on the planet—the Edinburgh International Festival. Edinburgh has been aptly described as “a 21st century city of contrasts: ancient castles, cobbled streets and church spires complemented by its contemporary image as a thriving, influential centre for finance, business and education.”  At the city’s highest point you can explore a 12th-century castle while sipping Starbuck’s just a few blocks away.

CLASS: Students receive four credits for CMAT 399:  Communications Study Abroad. Classes meet Monday through Friday mornings followed by an in-field excursion or project each day. Attendance is strictly required.  Coursework includes in-class lectures, readings, and visits to sites throughout Edinburgh and the Scottish highlands.  Students will complete a field project on a topic of their choice in the fields of media, free speech, journalism,  interpersonal, organizational, political, or health communication.

EXCURSIONS: We’ll learn about Edinburgh’s vast historical importance with visits to Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles Cathedral and Mary King’s Close, an underground 18th-century haunted city.  Planned activities may include the following: private tours of BBC Scotland and The Scottsman daily newspaper, a visit to the new Parliament building, a Literary Pub Tour, a stop at the café where J.K. Rowling penned the first two Harry Potter books, visits to the Museum of Scotland, the Royal Museum and the Royal Gallery, hiking to Arthur’s Seat (atop an ancient volcano) and Calton Hill, a visit to Stirling Castle (location of the crowning of Mary Queen of  Scots), a cruise on Loch Lomand, and a tour of the sacred battlegrounds made famous by William Wallace, a.k.a. Braveheart.

During free days students can continue to explore the country’s rich royal history with tours of Holyrood Royal Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia.  Or relax and soak in some local music in one of the city’s premier concert venues or a neighborhood pub on open-mic night. Additional fun attractions include the Scotch Whiskey Tour and the Haunted Edinburgh Evening tour.  Longer breaks can accommodate optional trips to Glasgow, Loch Ness, the Isle of Sky or a weekend in London.

HOUSING: During their stay in Scotland students will be housed at Edinburgh Central on Leith Walk, a modern complex built in 2006.  Edinburgh Central was awarded a 5-star rating (the highest rating possible) by the independent Scottish Tourist Board.  Edinburgh Central is located in the heart of the city, just a few minutes walk from Waverley Train Station and ideally situated for enjoying and exploring Scotland’s vibrant capital. All rooms feature in-suite bathroom/shower facilities and free Wi-Fi, along with daily housekeeping services.  The facility boasts 24-hour attendants and security, a full service restaurant, a bistro/bar, lounge with flat-screen TVs, on-site laundry, and access to a full kitchen with food storage areas where students can prepare their own meals.   

COST: Tuition and fees for the 2012 Communication, Culture and Expression Program are estimated to be $2900. A final cost will be determined early in fall semester 2011.  The price will include all tuition, round-trip airfare, housing at Edinburgh Central throughout the program, several group meals, substantial in-country travel and admission tickets for planned excursions.   Not included: most meals, optional personal excursions during free time.

APPLY NOW!

Admission is competitive and enrollment is limited. Admission is determined by GPA, essay, and recommendation.   Students will be admitted on a rolling basis until the program is full.  The application deadline is October 1, 2011. 

In addition to the online application interested students should submit the following components directly to the program director:

• A typed essay of no more than two pages answering the question: "Why do you want to study on the Communication, Culture & Identity in Scotland study abroad program?"

• A completed faculty recommendation form from a faculty member who knows the student well.  Recommendation form available here.