Dijon, France

In partnership with Parkland Community College and University of Burgundy, the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) offers a summer month-long program in the beautiful city of Dijon, France.

Summer

At A Glance:

Dijon, France, located at the crossroads of Europe, is a lively, progressive university city of over 250,000 inhabitants. Capital of gastronomy and gateway to the prestigious vineyards of Burgundy, Dijon is exceptionally rich in history and art. Heir to the splendors of the glorious court of the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon boasts numerous monuments, museums, and architectural jewels including churches, cathedrals, and private residences dating from the Middle Ages.

Program Description:

Located in the heart of the University of Burgundy campus, the Centre Internationale d’Études Françaises  (CIEF) was founded in 1902 and each year welcomes students from all over the world.

Academics
  • Students receive a minimum of 18 hours per week of instruction from native speaker faculty members who specialize in the communicative teaching of French as a foreign language.
  • In addition to studying French, students will take HUM 124: Humanities Field Experience. This online course develops an appreciation of a France’s culture through a greater understanding art, music, literature, philosophy, geography, history and other cultural aspects. Weekends in Paris and Provence are required part of the Humanities course.
  • Grades will be transcribed by the student’s home institution. Students who attend colleges that are not members of the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) are advised to clear all courses with their home schools before applying for the program and to work closely with the Dijon Program Director at Parkland College.
Accommodations
  • Participants will reside in one of the University of Burgundy’s residence halls in private rooms with full baths. In addition to a single bed, desk, closet, and plenty of shelving, each clean, modern, comfortable room has a small refrigerator.
  • Kitchens located close to all rooms provide cooking facilities for those who want to prepare their own meals. Bedding is provided but not towels.
  • Meals are not included in the program costs. However, substantial and tasty lunches can be purchased at very low cost (approx. $5) with the CIEF student ID card at the conveniently-located campus cafeterias. Several grocery stores are conveniently located.
Excursions and Extra-curriculars
  • Travel is an important part of the program and is provided to broaden the students’ experience. A three- day Paris visit—complete with a guided orientation tour, group welcome dinner, and museum entrances before heading by private coach or fast train (depending on group size) to your final destination and ―home for the next four weeks, Dijon.
  • Also included on one of the weekends of the program is a three-day tour of Provence, including the Roman cities of Arles and Orange, the Popes’ Palace in Avignon, the Pont du Gard, Les Baux de Provence, the Camargue and the Mediterranean coast!
  • While in Dijon students will visit local art and history museums, visit neighboring towns, tour wineries, and much more.
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?
  • March 1 application is due.  Late applications may be accepted based on CIEF program approval. Final payment due April 1.
Other Important Info: (VISA, flights, etc)

Students will purchase their own flights. ICISP will give a recommendation for a specific flight but student is not obligated to take it. 

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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