Overview
The Language and Culture Program at the University of Potsdam is specially designed for UC students with zero to a maximum of five quarters (three semesters) of university-level German. Course work incorporates language instruction and German area studies. Potsdam is a beautiful and elegant university city that is easily accessible to Berlin. It is famous for its palaces and parks, and is the capital of Brandenburg and the center of Prussian history.
Students attend classes with UC and sometimes other U.S. students.
Course Opportunities
Beginning, intermediate, and advanced German language and culture. You take a placement exam upon arrival to determine your level of language proficiency. The curriculum consists of German language study, two elective courses selected from a list of six historical, cultural, and/or political topics, and an independent study project. Classes are complemented by excursions to sites of interest in Potsdam and Berlin.
Elective course offerings vary from year to year and cover the topics of GDR and Reunification, Memory and Commemoration, Migration and Integration. The list of course offerings is finalized in January. See the MyEAP Course Catalog to search for courses previously taken by UC students.
Units
You are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad. Approximately 21 UC quarter units per semester are required (approximately five courses).
Language of Instruction
German and English
Language Study
Language-based curriculum. All language courses must be taken for a letter grade.
Internships, Research, and Independent Study
An independent study project is part of the program curriculum.
Duration
Go to the Participants section to see current or past calendars.
Spring: early April to mid/late July
Housing
You can choose to live in a dormitory with international students, UC students, and German students in housing arranged by the University of Potsdam or make your own private housing arrangements.
On-site Support
EAP students are supported by UC's network of EAP offices at every UC campus and partnerships with EAP host universities throughout the world. Local EAP staff at the UC Study Center in Berlin and a liaison at the University of Potsdam help students integrate into the culture and provide assistance with academics, housing, safety, and other issues.
See the EAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).
Host Institutions
University of Potsdam, Berlin
The University of Potsdam was founded out of the Potsdam College of Education in 1991. Today it is the largest university in Brandenburg although it is still relatively small by UC standards. Its motto is: Klein aber fein, “Small but excellent.” Presently, about 16,000 students study in the various departments of the University of Potsdam, including about 1,300 foreign students from more than 85 countries.
Visit the University of Potsdam website
Estimated Cost
Participation in EAP is a great value! The cost of EAP programs is typically less than that of non-UC study abroad programs. The dollar figures listed in the chart represent: 1) the amount of the fees that are paid directly to EAP in the current year, and 2) an estimate of the amount needed to cover personal living expenses in this location. Personal travel and entertainment are not included here.
Don't forget that you take your financial aid with you and the amount of your financial aid package will be based on the estimated TOTAL COST of this experience, as it is estimated below.
These expenses are estimated for 2009-10. Amounts will vary for 2010-11 participation due to proposed changes to UC fees, exchange rate fluctuation, etc. For a more detailed breakdown of 2009-10 payment information, visit the
Participants Portal and select the appropriate program.
Here’s what is included in the estimate:
- UC fees
- Tuition at host institution
- Automatic transfer of credits and grades to your UC transcript
- Accident and medical insurance
- On-site orientation
- Predeparture expenses (student visa, health clearance, etc.)
- Room and board
- Program excursions and activities
- Books and other incidental expenses
- Round-trip airfare
- Local transportation
Estimated EAP Costs*
| Option |
Cost |
| * Based on most recent costs for 2009-2010 to the nearest $100. |
| Spring |
$13,500 |
Application Requirements
Class Level
Third-quarter freshman only (Berkeley and Merced students must have at least sophomore standing), sophomore, junior, senior, graduate
Language Prerequisite
Minimum of zero to a maximum of five quarters or three semesters of university-level German.
GPA
2.5 cumulative GPA at the time of application and maintained through the end of the last term prior to departure. No exceptions.
Minimum Criteria
All applicants must also have:
- Serious academic goals and a clear plan for integrating EAP studies into
the student’s UC degree program
- Social and cross-cultural sensitivity; maturity; ability to adapt successfully
to a different environment and a new education system; ability to assess and
exhibit appropriate behavior in a variety of situations
- A willingness to abide by program regulations
- An endorsement by the Campus EAP Selection Committee and completion of all
campus-specific requirements (an interview may be required)
These are minimum program requirements only. Your Campus EAP Office determines selection and final admission.
Deadlines
Application deadlines and information on the application process are available through your Campus EAP Office. Supplemental predeparture materials will be required for many programs, including, but not limited to, host institution applications, visa and housing applications, medical clearances, etc.
For participation in the program, you must meet all deadlines and submit complete application materials.
Visit your Campus EAP Office for more information:
