Campus Update

(October 31, 2006)

UAlbany Launches Study Abroad Short Courses in China

How would you like to be in Shanghai for New Year's Eve? The University at Albany is launching Study Abroad short courses at East China Normal University (ECNU), on the edge of downtown Shanghai, as part of its emerging exchange.

The Study Abroad Office is now accepting applications for January and for May/June 2007.

"The programs are modestly priced, and they provide a superb opportunity to get to know China, to earn UAlbany academic credit, and to work towards your degree," said Interim Vice Provost for International Education Ray Bromley. The winter course is Introduction to China (three credits).

Students will depart around Dec. 30 and return Jan. 17, Bromley noted. Cost for the winter study abroad is round-trip airfare plus $1,261.30 for New York State residents, or $2,044.30 for out-of-state residents. Students are asked to bring another $250 for textbooks, spending at the airport, and personal expenses. Likely winter round-trip airfares from Albany or New York City to Shanghai are between $1,200 and $1,450. Summer airfares may be lower (perhaps around $1,000) because they can be reserved and paid further in advance.

To sign up, please apply as soon as possible in the Office of Study Abroad and Exchanges (LI-B66, basement level, between the University Library and the Arts and Sciences building). Alexandra Li is the staff assistant for the courses, and may be contacted at [email protected] or (518) 442-3502. She is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday in LI-B84. Li, of Shanghai, earned a master's degree in communication from UAlbany, and will accompany the students to China in January.

The summer trip will depart around May 23, returning June 30, and will include two courses, Introduction to China (three credits), and China in the Global Arena (three credits). Costs, in addition to round-trip airfare, are $2,872.60 for New York State residents or $4,438.60 for out-of-state residents. Students are asked to bring another $420 for textbooks, airport and personal expenses.

Costs paid to UAlbany cover registration, visa, dormitory housing and full meal plan, airport pickup in Shanghai, health and emergency insurance, and SUNY tuition.

Bromley noted, "China is the world's most populous nation and fastest-growing major economy, a manufacturing and business superpower, and a key player in the new global politics of the 21st century. Our late President, Kermit L. Hall, was tremendously enthusiastic about strengthening our institutional links with Chinese universities, and especially with ECNU, a top-tier institution in a tremendously dynamic city."