Discover France: Paris Semester

Imagine yourself studying in Paris, one of the great European political capitals! This is the ideal place for you to begin (or continue) your study of government and politics, and the French language. In Paris, you will gain valuable knowledge of the current state of modern politics as well as expand your awareness of the international arena. Some of the most significant historical events of the modern era took place in Paris, the “City of Lights”. Through this extraordinary program you can experience firsthand the magical city that has inspired poets and revolutionaries alike over the centuries.

Travel back in time to Haussmann’s Paris as you stroll down grand avenues such as the Champs-Elysees, explore the Place de la Bastille, or visit the breathtaking Eiffel Tower. Relax at a café or brasserie, spend an afternoon at one of many local parks, or enjoy a pastry at one of Paris’s world renowned patisseries. This program will allow you to taste the unique character that is Paris - including places like the Sewers, the Louvre, the Musee d’Orsay, and to the nearby Chateau de Versailles. During the semester, you will also enjoy several excursions - fully included in your program fee - targeted at gaining a fuller perspective on the cultural and geographic diversity of France. Our weekend excursion program currently includes the beautiful southern French city of Toulouse, and Strasbourg, a rich center of cultural intermingling located near the German border.

Co-sponsored by the Department of Languages and Literatures & the Department of Government and Politics, the France Semester Program offers a unique combination of courses that is sure to set you apart in your educational career. All courses are taught in English (unless otherwise indicated) and are offered in the same "modular" five-week format as our Discover the World courses. Each semester includes three modules with a wide selection of courses.

Internship opportunities are also available for students who have successfully completed intermediate French or above. An interview and a special application process is required.

To review the anticipated course offerings, please visit the Course Descriptions page.

One of the most exciting parts of this unique academic journey is the opportunity to live in and experience the culture of a different country. The new semester-long program will allow you to live and learn in Paris. Our newly renovated campus – located at St. John’s own campus, the Maison-Mère, is located in the fashionable sixth district (6th arrondisement of Paris).

Program Fee, Spring 2012: $7,990* (tuition and airfare not included)

*Great News! In an effort to make study abroad accessible to as many students as possible, St. John’s is now offering additional financial aid toward semester programs abroad. To find out how much your personalized Study Abroad Grant would be, and get a better understanding of the financial comparison between studying abroad and studying on a New York campus, see the Global Studies Financial Aid letter that was sent to the homes of all freshmen, sophomores and juniors.