Study Abroad

Department of Francophone, Italian, and Germanic Studies Study Abroad Programs

In conjunction with Penn Abroad, the Department offers undergraduates two study abroad options during the academic year: one in Berlin and one in Frankfurt (Huntsman program only). Occasionally, especially when the Berlin Program is full, students choose to go to Munich for the Wayne State University Junior Year Abroad Program.

Berlin Consortium for German Studies

The University of Pennsylvania offers students the opportunity to join the Berlin Consortium for German Studies (BCGS) at the Free University of Berlin. Students may study in Berlin for the entire year or for the spring semester only. BCGS is open to students in any major. Basic requirements are at least four semesters of college German or the equivalent, a cumulative average of 3.0 or better, and the approval of the student's major advisor. Since the program is officially recognized by and affiliated with Freie Universität (FU) participants may register for courses at the FU in most fields in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. In addition, students may enroll in German courses taught by the Consortium faculty and at the Humboldt University, also in Berlin. BCGS writing consultants support students in their academic work, especially in the preparation of oral presentations and written assignments. Prior to the start of the academic year (or the spring semester for spring students only), students enroll in an intensive Discourse and Composition course taught by the Consortium faculty while staying with a German host family. BCGS organizes excursions and cultural activities in and around Berlin as well as a three- or four-day study trip each semester. For interested students, BCGS provides assistance in finding internships in government, private enterprise, or cultural institutions. 

Courses in Berlin are automatically credited at the University of Pennsylvania; however, before leaving for Germany, students should carefully consult with their major departments concerning the acceptability of certain study abroad courses for their major programs. Financial aid from the University of Pennsylvania can be continued for BCGS. Please contact Penn Abroad for information and advising. You may also contact Prof. Simon Richter in Williams Hall 743 for more information and help with your BCGS application.

Why BCGS?

Why Berlin?

Beyond the Classroom

Huntsman Program in Frankfurt

Huntsman students with German as their target language may choose to study at the Goethe Universität in Frankfurt/Main for at least one semester. All students are required to take classes in their target language alongside the university students, and generally have the opportunity to live with a family. 

Junior Year in Munich

Wayne State University hosts the Junior Year in Munich (JYM) program at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München. JYM students have access to the full range of university courses in arts and sciences. Although the program normally runs for a full year, there are one-semester options. At least two years of college-level German or the equivalent are required for admittance to the program. For the second-semester option, five semesters of college German are required.