Canterbury, England

In partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University, the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) offers a semester in the beautiful city of Canterbury, England. 

Semester Abroad - (Fall & Spring)

At A Glance:

Travel through time and explore the social, political and historical aspects of British culture while living in Canterbury, England. Canterbury is a busy college town in the middle of Kent county, which is considered the Garden of England. Although the town is surrounded by lovely English countryside, Canterbury has easy access to London (1 hour) and Paris (2 hours). This central location makes travel easy be it whether you want to walk along the ancient Roman wall, see where Thomas Becket was murdered or attend a service at the Cathedral, explore the Tower of London, see a play at the Globe Theatre, tour Dover Castle, or get a picture on Track 9 ¾  at King’s Cross Station!

Program Description:

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), a medium-sized college with 18,000 students, is located near the medieval city wall and a few blocks away from the well-known Canterbury Cathedral.

Although the University was founded as a Church of England college, it is now a secular, public university which has been awarded TEF Silver designation, which is given to institutions that deliver high-quality teaching and consistently exceed the “rigorous national quality requirements” for higher education in the UK.

ICISP students are admitted as full-time students by CCCU and take 2 classes with their study abroad cohort as well as 2 classes with British students under British teachers. This mix ensures that students are supported in their time abroad but also exposed to the British educational system.
Academics
  • Students will receive up to 12 transferable college credits in the semester programs. Required classes for all students are British Politics and Society (3), Survey of British History (3)
  • 2 elective courses (6) selected from an approved list, primarily composed of humanities and social sciences courses.
Accommodations
  • University dorms or privately-run university apartments. All accommodation include private bedroom, free Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and sheets/towels/pots/pans etc, and includes the option for private bathroom with additional cost.
  • Meals are not included with any of the accommodations. All have shared kitchens. There is also a cafeteria and two cafes on campus to purchase meals, or there are three grocery stores nearby for shopping.
Excursions and Extra-curriculars

Included within the British History class are many cultural excursions, which change by the semester and with instructor expertise. Common trips include: Tower of London, Glober Theatre, Dover Castle, Stonehenge, Roman Baths in Bath, Windsor Castle.

Eligibility
  • 18 years or older
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA (on 4.0 scale)
  • Completion of at least 12 college credits by the time of departure
  • Completion of one college writing course (commonly known as English Composition I and/or II, or its equivalent) with a grade of B or better, by the time of departure.
Dates/Fees/Deadlines - How to apply?
  • May 15 (for fall study abroad.) Late applicants may be accepted if space is available
  • October 15 (for spring study abroad.) Late applicants may be accepted if space is available
Other Important Info: (VISA, flights, etc)
  • VISA: The United Kingdom ETA is required
  • Flights: A recommended flight with London airport pickup & drop-off is provided

Additional Information

Enroll in the U.S. Dept of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://secure.login.gov/  to receive important updates about your destination. STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to register planned travel abroad. Get updates about health, weather, safety, and security for your destination. Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy. Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

Travel Tips

  • Before you depart, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
  • Always keep digital and physical copies of important documents like your passport, visa, and insurance details.
  • Research the local transportation options and familiarize yourself with the best routes to your university and other key locations.

    • Health and Safety

    Stay informed about any health advisories or vaccination requirements for your destination. It’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation. Consider packing a travel first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Familiarize yourself with the local healthcare system and know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic at your destination.

    Your global journey starts with one step—let’s take it together. Find your college’s representative today and ask how you can start your application process.

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