Program Description

Co-sponsored by UW-Madison, the University of California Education Abroad Program (UC EAP) offers students the opportunity to study in Budapest, Hungary. Budapest, a beautiful, cosmopolitan city of approximately two million people, has served as a busy cultural, intellectual and artistic center since the glory days of the Austro-Hungarian empire. Students can take specially designed classes taught in English at the program study center at Eötvös Loránd University. Founded in 1635, Eötvös Loránd University is Hungary’s leading institution of higher education.

Despite the destruction of the First and Second World Wars, Hungary retains a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Students can explore the ruins of a Roman city, mosques and minarets from the 16th century Turkish occupation, the castle district of medieval Buda, remnants of the Austro-Hungarian empire, and historic synagogues and artifacts of Jewish life prior to Nazi occupation.

The program enables students to witness Hungary’s internal transformations and study the complex problems of European integration. In 1989, Hungary was one of the first Central European countries to end Communist rule. Today, Hungary is a member of the EU and continues to work towards further economic growth and development.

Academics

The host institutions for the program are Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) and Central European University (CEU). The program is located at the UC Study Center at ELTE and offers specially designed classes taught in English that focus on the economic, political, and social dynamics of Central Europe today. Students primarily attend classes with American students (most ELTE core courses). Field trips supplement many of the classes.

The program begins with one week of introductory Hungarian language and culture study. Hungarian language study is required during the first semester (spring or fall) and strongly recommended during the second semester (for students who extend from the fall to the spring). During fall semester, students take three courses plus one language course. With the permission of the Study Center Director, students may substitute one university course from offerings at ELTE or CEU for one core course. During spring semester, students take at least two core courses plus Hungarian language. Students may substitute two university courses from offerings at ELTE or CEU for two core courses. A limited number of internships and special study projects are also available in the spring.

Housing

The program arranges temporary hotel lodging for students while they locate permanent housing. Students find their own housing by using local newspapers and lists developed by program staff. Program staff provide some assistance during the housing search. Students may share an apartment with international students, other program participants, or host country students. Housing and meals are not included in the program fee.

Excursions and Activities

In Budapest, a one-week orientation including Hungarian language instruction gives an overview of Hungarian history, culture, politics, and social structure. Professional staff are available throughout the year in the program office located at Eötvös Loránd University.

Program staff provide a listing of ongoing social and cultural activities in Budapest and plan organized program activities throughout the term. Students can attend a variety of concerts and theater, dance, and opera performances, or encounter an interesting blend of Hungarian and Western culture in Budapest’s jazz and rock clubs. Past participants have taken part in university clubs such as the folk dancing club, sports activities, and informal café get-togethers.