Structured primarily to benefit graduate students with a developing studio practice, the program is open to applicants currently enrolled in an MFA program. Artists who have just completed an MFA are also eligible to apply, and post-baccalaureate students with an exceptional portfolio may also be eligible.

Special circumstances or questions about eligibility can be communicated to the program director in connection with your application.

Application for the program is made through American University's Study Abroad office, with review of applicants by the program directors. The program carries 3 hours of graduate credit as a studio course through the Department of Art's MFA program; participation in the program without enrollment in the course is not possible.

Transfer of credit to your home university should be explored with the administrators of your current program. AU Abroad can help with questions regarding enrollment and transfer of credit.

Program Costs

This program includes all on-site fees, resources, and services (see below for list) in the course tuition. Please see the American University costs per credit hour. When applicable, graduate financial aid or stipends may be applied to program costs. An additional administrative fee of approximately $500 is also required.*

The program costs include the following:

• Course tuition
• Studio space
• Housing
• Local transport (universal pass for subway, tram, and buses)
• Visiting artist program
• Student insurance
• Admissions to group and special events

The program does not include:

• Airfare
• Meals and incidentals

Other cost considerations

Meals and groceries

Though meals and other daily expenses are paid by the participants, it's worth noting that food costs in Berlin, especially at the supermarket, are often even lower than most metropolitan American locations. This kind of expense is also, of course, something you'd spend whether in Berlin or at home - and can sometimes be less than the home budget for these expenses.

Transportation

This is another cost to look at closely. Within the program fees are passes allowing you full access to the extensive U-bahn (the underground), S-bahn (the higher-speed above ground trains), the street trams, and the buses. Within central Berlin it's unusual to have to walk more than a block to some form of dependable public transportation. Transportation costs at your home location, whether public transport or buying gas, are then another out-of-pocket from your home budget that is built into the cost of the program.

Materials

Studio material costs vary dramatically from one artist's practice to another, and how you choose to enable your studio production within the framework of the program is entirely up to the individual. Many materials or necessary equipment can be brought with you, or you may choose to take the opportunity to work with found materials, public space, or other less financially-dependent practices. That is all to say that budgeting for your studio practice is, as always, up to the individual and their goals.

Contact

This program has been organized and will be supervised on-site by AU Associate Professor Andy Holtin. Professor Holtin has extensive experience working with the arts community in Berlin, through exhibitions, workshops, and previous study abroad courses. He has a thorough knowledge of the city's many resources for artists, and also speaks the language. He can be reached at holtin@american.edu.

The American University Study Abroad Office can be reached at:

Email: auabroad@american.edu
Phone: 1.202.885.1320

*Program costs and fees may change due to enrollment and currency exchange rates.