Serbia, Bosnia, and Kosovo: Peace and Conflict Studies in The Balkans

Type of Program: Semester
City: Belgrade, Serbia with travel to various cities
When Offered:Fall or Spring
Cost: See Program Costs page

This program engages students interested in peace and conflict studies, history, international relations, and political science with the ongoing efforts of peacebuilding and reconciliation in the Balkans. Students examine the origins of the conflicts in the Balkans, from the breakup of Yugoslavia to the violent wars of the 1990s, as well as current challenges and opportunities in post-conflict transformation. The program provides an excellent case study for examining collective memory, reconciliation, identity, human rights activism, and other topics. Students meet with local scholars, social activists, students, and peacebuilding and human rights groups who share their analysis, activism, and visions of the future. Lecturers are drawn from academic institutions such as the Faculty of Media and Communications (FMK), Singidunum University (Belgrade), University of Belgrade, Islamic Faculty in Sarajevo, the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies, and the University of Sarajevo, as well as from local organizations such as the Center for Peacebuilding in Sanski Most (Bosnia-Herzegovina) and the Youth Initiative for Human Rights in Serbia. 

*These videos were produced, marketed, and borrowed from SIT Study Abroad.

From the program base in the city of Belgrade-Serbia's vibrant capital and cultural and political center-students travel to other cities, towns, and villages in Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Kosovo. In Kosovo, students witness the different realities and points of view regarding the future of the frozen conflict there.

The program's homestay with a family in Belgrade immerses students in the city's life and a local community. By living with a family, students can improve their language skills and further explore Serbian culture. 

Students will study abroad the Balkans region through the SIT study abroad program.  SIT provides 24/7 onsite student support and services.  

Academic Calendar 2013

Spring 2013: February 4 - May 19, 2013
Fall 2013: Early September - Mid December, 2013  

Eligibility and Prerequisites

Students must have declared a major and taken prerequisite courses. Students must have completed three semesters in college-level residence. Students with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher are eligible to apply.  Junior status required.

Application and Study Abroad Deposit Deadlines

Please note that both the application and fee are due in the Office of International Studies. All students must attend an advising session at least one week prior to the deadline in the Office of International Studies to obtain an application.