Morocco- Language and Culture in Ifrane

  Morocco

Ifrane

Term: Summer 
Dates: May 30 - July 26, 2008

Description: From the Sahara desert oasis of Marrakesh to the teeming metropolis of Casablanca and the elegant royal cities of Rabat and Fez, Morocco has long been a major political, commercial and cultural crossroads in the history of North Africa and the Mediterranean region. A truly diverse society, Morocco is a point of convergence for African, Arab and Mediterranean cultures. Today, this rich and diverse history is evident in the peaceful mingling of different ethnicities, faiths, dialects and cuisine. Situated in the heart of a region known for its beautiful forests, mountains, lakes and waterfalls, Ifrane is located just 60 kilometers from the historically rich imperial city of Fez, one of the most prestigious cities of the Muslim world and the capital of the first Arab dynasty of Morocco.

Al-Akhawayn University is a young, modern institution inaugurated by His Majesty King Hassan II of Morocco in 1995. Morocco's first English-language university, Al-Akhawayn takes an innovative approach to education, combining the humanistic tradition of Arab and Mediterranean cultures with the structure of the American university system. Visiting American students experience a new and different academic culture combined with the comforting familiarity of their home university. The University also offers intense faculty-student interaction, with small classes and a curriculum characterized by an interdisciplinary spirit.

Academic facilities at Al-Akhawayn include the largest computer network in all of Africa, one of the finest libraries in Morocco, several research centers and a state-of-the-art language laboratory. Student services facilities are just as modern and well-appointed, with pleasant student housing in 16 residence halls, a student center, health services center, counseling and career services, and an excellent sports center. Student life is interesting and dynamic, with international students comprising nearly 10% of the student body and increasing each year.

Highlights: The program includes two major trips to the Tafilalt Area (Errachidia, Erfoud, and Merzouga) and to Marrakesh. Students are required to use the vocabulary learned in the classroom when interacting with native speakers. Transportation, hotel, and all meals during the trips are included in the program cost. Optional trips can be arranged to neighboring cities such as Fez and Meknes.

Clubs

Students are required to participate in at least one of the following clubs:

- Literature and Theater
- Music and Dance
- Calligraphy
- Cooking

The clubs are an opportunity for students to practice and learn new vocabulary specific to the goals of each club.

Cost in US$: Approximately $5,250 - $5, 705

Track 1 (Language only): $5,250 for non-KU students.
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Track 2 (Language and Culture): $5,705 for non-KU students.

The fee includes tuition and fees at KU and at Al-Akhawayn University, housing, meals, books, all program administrative costs, excursions and cultural programs.

Additional costs: Airfare, passport fees, incidental personal expenses and optional cultural excursions or events students attend on their own. Additional costs are expected to be approximately $2,800.

Note
All dates, costs, and program information are subject to change as necessary due to fluctuations in the exchange rate or other reasons.

Experience Required: no

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application