In an exceedingly complex and interconnected world, the University Honors Program is dedicated to advancing the international education of its students. Fundamentally, there is considerable intellectual value in learning about the diverse peoples, cultures, languages, countries, and experiences that span the globe. At the same time, there is a compelling practical dimension to global learning. University Honors graduates who understand the world and can interact effectively across national borders will be well-positioned to compete for the jobs of the twenty-first century. Furthermore, both individual and national well-being will be increasingly tied to a capacity to work collaboratively with foreign citizens to address a broad range of challenging global issues. For these reasons, the University Honors Program is strongly committed to developing, supporting, and promoting international education opportunities.

Study Abroad with University Honors

We are excited to announce two short-term study abroad opportunities for summer 2013!

Live and Learn in Canada. The primary purpose of this program is to introduce University Honors Freshmen and Sophmores to the richness of Canadian culture as it is manifested in the beautiful, international city of Montreal. This major metropolitan center enjoys a distinctly French Canadian identity, strong Canadian English influences, and a truly global character as represented by its considerable ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity. Knowledge of French is not necessary to participate in this program. This short-term study abroad experience will introduce participants to five areas of Montreal life as a city: (1) art and architecture, (2) government and politics (with attention to history and culture), (3) healthcare, (4) business community, and (5) sport. By completing the selected course – ILAS 290 or ILAS 399 – University Honors students can satisfy the Honors Seminar requirement for Upper Division Honors. Review the application. 

For further information, please contact: NIU Study Abroad Office, or Dr. Chris Jones, cmjones@niu.edu, or Dr. Anne Birberick, the faculty program director, annie@niu.edu.

Live and Learn in Holland. This University Honors Program will provide real-world and engaged learning in the fields of international justice, conflict resolution, genocide studies, and history. While studying the International Criminal Court (ICC) students will learn through intensive workshops, lectures, simulations, undertake a case-study, write Advocacy Policy Briefs, and interact with legal and support staff from the International Criminal Court. Students will visit historical sites, participate in walking tours, and spend a weekend in Amsterdam, including the opportunity to experience the Anne Frank Haus. Students can receive credit for the course as an undergraduate (POLS 498) or graduate (POLS 798) student.Review the application.

For further information please contact: NIU Study Abroad Office or Professor J.D. Bowers, the faculty program director, jbowersi@niu.edu.