Fribourg, Switzerland
Fribourg is located on the winding Sarine river at the foot of the Pre-Alps and less than half an hour from the capital city of Bern. The town has some of the finest medieval architecture in Europe. There are squares throughout the city, cobblestone streets, and several picturesque stone and wooden bridges. Fribourg has a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops, and the town is known as the cultural capital of the canton with an impressive array of cultural activities such as theaters, museums, art exhibitions, concerts and cinemas. Hiking paths, mountain bike trails, and Alpine ski slopes are easily accessible. Fribourg is a very central location with readily available resources for traveling both within Switzerland and throughout Europe. 

University of Fribourg

Founded in 1889, the University of Fribourg is the only university in Europe offering a full curriculum in both French and German, awarding bilingual degrees. The University's motto, "Science and Wisdom," reflects a concern for ethical responsibility in scientific activity and a positive attitude towards interdisciplinary studies. The University of Fribourg integrates the Swiss academic network by acting as a bridge between the French- and German-speaking Universities. The University is centrally located within the town of Fribourg. 

Students at the University of Fribourg may participate in the Institute of Physical Education and Sports. The Institute offers a wide range of sports and facilitates interaction with other students at the University.

The Director of the American College Program at the University of Fribourg assists overseas PC students with practical aspects of living and study at Fribourg. 

Academic Program
The University of Fribourg offers PC students the opportunity to pursue a year or spring semester of study in Switzerland. The program includes a four-week intensive language and orientation course before enrolling for classes. Students enroll directly into University courses in the five Faculties of Theology, Economics and Social Science, Arts, Science, or in the many interdisciplinary programs. Courses are offered in the lecture and seminar format. Students will attend classes, submit papers, and take examinations along with the Swiss students. 

Students will enroll for the equivalent of 15 US credits per semester. Students will have the opportunity to discuss course selection with the program Director at the University. Students often make final registration choices once they have arrived in Fribourg.

The academic year is divided into two semesters:
Junior Year Abroad: mid-October until July
Fall Semester: mid-October until early February
Spring Semester: mid-March until July
Students arrive in late September or February for the language and orientation course. 

Eligibility
For this program, students must have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better with at least two years of university-level French or German. Assessment of the student's ability to produce the appropriate scholarly work in the courses and a capacity for independent, self-directed study are important aspects of the application process for this program.

Visit the University of Fribourg site.