
Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia (also called the Slovak Republic), a country created on New Year's Day 1993 when the former Czechoslovakia split into two separate countries (the Czech Republic and theSlovak Republic). Slovakia is a member of the European Union and NATO. Like most countries in Eastern Europe, Slovakia is still in a state of transition from a socialist economy to a free-market economy. These changes reverberate in the cultural life of the country, a blend of tradition and modernity.
Bratislava is a modern city with a long history and an excellent public transportation system. Comenius University, where the class will be held, recently celebrated its 90th anniversary. The building where the class will meet is located on the Danube River, within easy walking distance of Staré Mesto (Old Town) with its many cafes and shops, and also within easy walking distance of several large shopping malls. Numerous cultural experiences are available - from high culture (opera, symphony orchestra) to popular culture (music, theater, folk culture festivals).
Bratislava is located in the heart of Europe, with excellent bus and train service to cities inside and outside of Slovakia, including Košice (second largest city in Slovakia, located near the Tatra Mountains resort area), Vienna, Prague, and Budapest (Vienna is about 45 minutes away, Prague about 5 hours, and Budapest about 3 hours). Day or overnight trips to each of these cities is easily arranged.
Because Slovakia is a member of the European Union, no visa is required. The same is true for the countries we plan to visit (Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary).
No required immunizations. Most students already have basic immunizations, and that's all that is necessary. Of course, if a student takes medication of any kind on a regular basis, he or she should have enough of that medication along for the four weeks.
The dormitories are comparable to dorms here in the U.S. Most likely two students to a room, each room having a bathroom as well as a small refrigerator and hot plate. There's a small cafeteria on the ground level and a desk where someone is routinely stationed.
For the current projected costs for this program, please click on the following link to the Fees for JMU Study Abroad Programs page.
Students will stay in residence halls/dormitories for the duration of the program. Most meals will be covered by the program fee (2 meals a day - 14 meals per week).
For more detailed instructions and to download the application, please click on the following link to the Applications and Forms section for JMU Short-Term Programs.
In addition to the oIP application form, students are required to attend an interview with the program director.
This program is intended for any student in any major. We live in a rapidly shrinking world. Knowledge of other cultures is crucial for any young professional.