For those interested in the academics...

http://www.northeastern.edu/studyabroad/programs/description/?id=125

Course credits:

SOCL 4535: European Union: Social and Political Issues - The course deals with current challenges being faced by the European Union countries, with special emphasis on economic problems, status of the welfare state, political issues, immigration, effects of recent EU expansion, European policies regarding neighboring regions, and the future of EU integration. Particular attention will be given to the role of France and the recent changes in French domestic and foreign policies.

Learning objectives: Students will learn about the origins of the European Union and the reasons for its creation; the important role played by the EU and by its member states in global affairs; the challenge of integrating separate nations into a more unified economic and political entity; and the ways in which the region is dealing with the challenges of a new century. Given the historical and cultural connections between the USA and Europe, it is important that American students have an informed knowledge and understanding of the latter. Because the Dialog will be based in France, special attention will be given to the ways in which France is responding to challenges to its way of life.

Assignments:In addition to lectures and assigned reading, students will be responsible for conducting a research project on a topic to be decided in consultation with the instructor. The precise topic will be chosen to fit with the student's interests, and will be designed to build on courses they have already taken at NU. The results of the research will be presented in a research paper, which will be due on August 15.

SOCL 4580: Special Topics in Sociology: Societies and Cultures of the Mediterranean Region - The course looks at the ways in which the societies on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea have been connected during the last two millennia, the conflicts that have occurred, the ways in which cultural perceptions and definitions have developed, the religious and political differences that have emerged, and the recent rise of terrorism as a factor in the region. The course will also look at recent attempts to integrate the region into some kind of Mediterranean Union, the reasons for their failure, and what can be expected in the future.

Learning Objectives: The aim of the course is to understand why this region, where continents and civilizations meet, is of special global significance in the Twenty-First Century. Students will gain an understanding of the trends and tensions in the region, of the sources of conflict and cooperation between Mediterranean nations, and of the possible consequences of a failure to improve relations. Finally, students compare the Mediterranean experience with attempts in other areas of the world to create regional programs and identities.

Assignments: In addition to lectures and assigned reading, students will be responsible for conducting a research project on a topic to be decided in consultation with me. The precise topic will be chosen to fit with the student�s interests, and will be deigned to build on courses they have already taken at NU. The results of the research will be presented in a research paper, which will be due on August 15.