2022 was a special year for the Cologne Summer Schools program. For the first time the program was held hybrid. Not only the participants on site had the opportunity to be part of this year's Summer School, but also online participants could broaden their educational horizons through the hybrid format, make new friends with the help of our Buddy Program and experience intercultural exchange according to this years motto „Equality of Opportunity“. We are very proud of the successful implementation of the hybrid concept and are excited to share with you the highlights of the summer school.
This summer school project was definitely special and different in many aspects from the former summer schools we organized. For the first time after a 2-year-long pause, we welcomed students on site, and - not only that - also a group of online participants attended part-time the academic program and participated in discussions and group work tasks despite the physical distance. The didactic challenges that we mastered and the learnings we gained are incredibly valuable and relevant for the future development of short-term exchange programs. On the following pages, you will see selected highlights of the concept we developed as well as authentic experiences and feedback from participants and lecturers. If you are considering applying for our annual Cologne Summer School, this is the best way to come to know our philosophy and convince yourself that Cologne is the place to be in summer for your academic growth and improvement of intercultural competence.
testimonial from our anonymous evaluation survey
A great opportunity to grow in my academic and personal life. The course offers lectures that answer properly the problematic and the main topic of the course. The cultural program as well connect cultures from around the world, different perspectives and ways of living.
testimonial from our anonymous evaluation survey
I will definitely remember the deep conversations I had with the participants outside both in and out of class. I learned a lot about the topics through other perspectives and this was my biggest takeaway from the program.
testimonial from our anonymous evaluation survey
This (program) brought me to a community of people who want to do the same thing for the world as I do and look forward to staying in touch with everyone.
testimonial from our anonymous evaluation survey
Super friendly and tolerant atmosphere. New acquaintances and buddy slots stay in my heart.
testimonial from our anonymous evaluation survey
It's a wonderful program where you get to meet people from all over the world, and get surprised every day by the similarities and differences.
The project Cologne Summer Schools is part of the Division International Affairs of the UoC. The CSS-Team coordinates and funds Spring, Summer and Winter Schools that are taking place at the Unviersity of Cologne and abroad. Additionally, the team organizes one annual project on a relevant topic that is approached interdisciplinarily. For this summer school the CSS-Team invites 20 to 25 international students from all over the world to Cologne to study and research together.
What does a Cologne Summer Schools project consist of?
Cologne Spring, Summer and Winter Schools combine academic program and cultural activities in a balanced way. Usually during the day you will have lectures, workshops or group work and in the evenings and on the weekend there will be cultural events such as city tours, museum visits, field trips an anything else that your creative organizers had thought of.
Who can apply?
It depends on the school you would like to apply for. If the project is a collaboration between the UoC and another partner university, you should be a student of this respective university. Furthermore, in general an above average university performance and a very good command of English are required.
All applications are open for international students from UoC partner universities and students from UoC with diverse social backgrounds, ethnicities, nationalities, gender identities and physical abilities. Cologne Summer Schools promotes diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities according to the UoC diversity strategy. Learn more about here.
Are Summer Schools designed only for international students?
Definitely not. The projects are open for students of the University of Cologne as well and are a great oppotunity to create new international contacts and practice your English skills. In fact, it is sometimes possible to receive course credits for your participation. Please inform yourself on the project's page or ask the organizational team.
Which projects can I apply for?
Since Spring, Summer and Winter Schools are organized by the different faculties and institutes of the University of Cologne, there is a wide variety of topics and research areas in which you can gain summer school experience. Here you can take a look at projects taking place in Cologne and abroad.
What are the application requirements?
The requirements such as study major, language certificates, resume, cover letter etc. are listed on the respective page of the project organizers. Please consider potential differences in the organizational procedures for different projects.
How much does the participation in a Cologne Summer Schools project cost?
We do our best to provide you with highest quality of teaching and cultural experiences without tuition fees and in the best case scenario, without you having to cover your transportation fees. Be aware of projects' specifics and inform yourself on the respective pages about what costs are covered by the UoC and what you should cover yourself.