Semester in Peru

Program Information

Spend a semester in the historic land of the Incas through this comprehensive program in Cusco, Peru.  This program enhances students' global perspectives through a blend of academic coursework, field studies, and hands-on development projects. Excursions provide an academic context through the breath-taking scenery of stunning geographic features and rich history of archaeological sites.   Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, engage in the culture of the Sacred Valley, and explore Andean forests, lakes and glaciers.

Spanish language courses are tailored to students' abilities and provide excellent student-professor interactions in the classroom and out.  Academic courses are taught in Spanish by Peruvian and international professors and offer authentic and insightful perspectives.  Guided tours deepen the understanding of the topics discussed in class, in addition to developing abilities and aptitudes in relation to their understanding of artistic, cultural and historic processes in Peru.  Courses include visits to various churches, museums, and sites of archaeological importance.

To round out the experience, students will spend time participating in local service learning projects aimed at promoting social and economic development in the local communities. Service projects may include environmental conservation and education, construction, public health campaigns, and micro-business projects.  These projects enhance academic studies, promote cultural immersion, and provide for an extremely rewarding experience.  Come work side-by-side with locals in sustainable service projects, master your Spanish, work on your salsa moves, and relish in the traditions and beauty that live in the shadow of Machu Picchu!

Highlights

During the semester, students can expect cultural or outdoor adventures as well as project outings. Excursions may include:

    * A visit to Incan Ruins in the Sacred Valley
    * A tour of the Major Incan ruins around Cusco, including Sacsayhuaman
    * Trips to Andean forests, lakes, and glaciers
    * A trip to Machu Picchu and Hiking the Inca Trail
    * Community development projects

Housing

Accommodations are provided with a local Peruvian family in a private room with a shared bathroom. Most meals will be provided.

Curriculum

Semester in Peru students are enrolled at Jacksonville University in the core curriculum for 16 credits. Jacksonville University accredits the program and provides transcripts upon successful completion.  The following curriculum is offered at Centro Bartolome de las Casas, a highly respected Andean studies institution:

* Classes taught in Spanish with English support - Earn up to 16 credits.

Spanish language (6 credits):

The course begins with a thorough written and oral evaluation, placing each student with others of his or her level. The course includes conversation, reading, and discussion of texts. Small classes emphasize enrichment of vocabulary for daily conversational needs as well as more traditional instruction concentrating on grammatical structures. Courses are offered at Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced levels. (click on each level for a syllabus)

Academic Courses (10 credits):

 

Development Projects and Service-Learning

In addition to classroom and field studies, Semester in Peru participants have the opportunity to learn more about community development in Cusco and the Sacred Valley through hands-on development projects.  Projects complement academic studies for a few hours a week, typically on Fridays and some weekends.

Semester projects are chosen by Site Directors based on the needs of communities. Past Semester projects include:

    * Construction of bridges in Chaowllacocha and Chupani
    * Construction of primary school in Yomentoato
    * Planting over 2,000 native species saplings in the forest of Chicon
    * Building a fish farm in the High Andean community of HuacaWasi
    * Health campaigns in the Manu national park
    * Construction of a complete irrigation system in the communities of Raqchi and Pacca Huaynacolcca
    * Construction of a kindergarten in the community of Pacor
    * Construction of an access ramp for a sports facility for the Disabled Association of Cusco

 

Prerequisites and Academic Information

Completion of one year of university studies and one semester of university level Spanish
Good academic standing at your home university
A positive attitude and a will to help

Credits: 16
Total class hours: 224
Project hours: 56
Average class hours per credit: 14
Accreditation: Jacksonville University (JU)
Language of Instruction: Spanish with English support

 

Program Dates

Spring 2010
Program Start: January 16
Program End: April 23

Fall 2010
Program Start: August 28
Program End: December 3

Cost

$12,850

*cost may change at any time due to the currency exchange

Included

  • Up to 16 credits, tuition, fees, books and transcripts from JU
  • Academic classes four to five days per week
  • Intensive group orientation
  • Full room and board with a local family
  • Intensive Spanish classes
  • Four to six group development project outings
  • $400 contributed directly to development projects
  • Airport pickup (Cusco)
  • Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
  • Visits to archaeological sites, weekend hikes and culutral activities
  • 24 hour emergency contact on-site
  • Regular staff check-ins and access to office in Cusco

 

How to Apply

  • Fill out the IEP Application and review information on the Apply page.
  • Pay a $200 deposit to International Education Programs.
  • Send an official transcript from your home institution to the address below.

 

Send the above materials to:

International Education Programs
Jacksonville University
2800 University Blvd North
Gooding 105
Jacksonville, Florida 32211

Past Students

"Studying in Peru was a life-changing experience for me.  When I came I wasn't sure who I was or where I wanted to be in the future, but after what I have seen and done in Peru I have a clearer picture."

Rebecca