Languages & Cultures

Cuernavaca Online Brochure

Please check back for new information for 2008 as this site is updated from time to time!

Dates and Location

Prof. Benjamin Smith, Department of Languages and Cultures at Minnesota State University Moorhead, will lead a 4-week study abroad program to Cuernavaca, Mexico in Spring 2008.  The group will leave Friday, May 9 and return Saturday June 7, 2008.  Participants will study at the Universidad Internacional (UNINTER) in Cuernavaca and stay with carefully selected local families.

Academic Program

One of the unique features of the full immersion program at UNINTER is that all language classes are limited to 5 students per class, allowing for substantial individual attention to each student.  Students will also be enrolled in Culture courses and Literature or Education courses, depending on the participant's declared emphasis. Classes are suited to all levels, from Beginning to Advanced proficiency.  Internships are available for advanced students various fields, including Education, Social Work and Medicine.  Credits are transferable to MSUM. You may earn as many as 8 MSUM credits in 4 weeks.  Students will be required to sign up for a 2 credit course, Spanish 390, to be taught by Dr. Smith in Cuernavaca.  Credits earned in this course may be applied towards a Spanish major or minor.  Students will consult with Dr. Smith about the classes that will best fit their academic objectives.  There is a required Spanish 290 course offered Spring 2008 for all students planning on participating in the study abroad program.

Excursions

In addition to their studies, participants will have the opportunity to go on excursions or educational trips to nearby cultural attractions, among which is the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihaucán.  Cuernavaca is located only 1½ hours from Mexico City and only 2 hours from Puebla, both of which the participants will have an opportunity to visit.

Financial Aid

Eligible students can apply financial aid to this program if they apply by set deadlines.

Estimated Costs
$3000

This price includes:

Non-refundable initial $120 deposit, airfare, tuition, books and supplies at UNINTER, housing and meals for the duration, and 5 educational trips.

The group will be taking educational trips to:

  • Tepoztlán
  • Teotihuacán
  • Folkloric Ballet at the Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City
  • Puebla
  • Estacas River

Additional estimated expenses in Mexico:

  • $200 - Optional activities (transportation, museum admissions, etc)
  • $200 - Personal spending (laundry, snacks, etc)
  • $100 - Passport and pictures (required)

Please note:  All estimates are based on current information. While the University endeavors to keep costs down, the final total may be adjusted because of conditions beyond the University's control, such as changes in the exchange rate and substantial increases in air fare).  Expenses in Mexico will vary depending on individual spending habits.

Insurance

Applicants must have health insurance coverage in order to participate in the program. At a minimum, students are required to apply for the International Student Identity Card from the MSUM Office of International Programs in Flora Frick Hall.  It is strongly recommended that students get additional insurance, including trip interruption/cancellation insurance.

For further information contact:

Professor Benjamin Smith
Department of Languages and Cultures
Minnesota State University Moorhead
MA 279G
(218) 477-4267
smithbe@mnstate.edu