Berlin Language and Politics Program

Program Overview

Offered in partnership with the CDC language school, the Berlin Language and Politics Program provides students at U.S. colleges and universities, as well as recent graduates, a first-hand introduction to the German political landscape through seminars, discussions with German politicians and policy experts, and visits to non-profits and other political institutions. Participants also expand their professional qualifications through intensive German language instruction at the CDC. The program will take place from May 26th to June 30th, 2012.

Program Highlights

The program is held in Berlin, Germany’s vibrant political and cultural capital. Upon arriving in Berlin, you will begin a 4-week intensive German course at the CDC language school.  An introductory seminar on German politics will also be held in the first week, and participants will begin site visits to government buildings and policy institutions, while also enjoying some of Berlin’s finest cultural offerings.  Following the completion of language instruction, participants will make a trip to a Landtag (regional parliament) outside of Berlin to gain exposure to regional government in Germany.  In the final week of the program, participants will keep a busy schedule of site visits and discussions, gaining insights into the inner workings of a wide variety of institutions such as governing bodies, think-tanks, advocacy groups, and political parties.  Discussions and meetings will highlight current “hot topics” in Germany’s political arena such as environmental policy, immigration issues, and European integration.

Cultural Vistas offers:

• Accommodation with a German host family (including breakfast)
• In-country transportation to Landtag
• An introductory seminar on German politics
• Enrollment in a 4-week language course at CDC Berlin
• Arrangement of company visits
• Arrangement of cultural programming
• Interpreter and guide
• Pre-departure information mailing)
• Enrollment in health insurance
• Support throughout the program in Germany and the U.S.

Application Deadline

Applications and supporting materials must be postmarked or submitted online by Sunday, April 1, 2012.