Architecture and Design
Join the Summer Program on Architecture, Land Development & Real Estate in Prague from 6.7.2020 - 21.8.2020.
The main goal of the Summer Program on Architecture is to cover a wide range of profession-related subjects normally not studied at schools of architecture or at least not studied practically; something that will be essential to the students in the real world.
Initially, a young architect’s work is performed under the leadership of senior architects. As junior architects progress in their careers, they become the leaders on various projects themselves. ECCEDU Programs are oriented towards preparing students for their future careers and to become the new leaders in their field. The ECCEDU Architecture & Design program is designed to fulfill this purpose as best as possible, as the three components of the curriculum (i.e. the lectures, the internship, and the design assignment) will give students more confidence in their work and a much better understanding of the business world of architecture, design, planning, real estate, land development, and construction.
General Structure of the Program
Part I - Lectures
The lectures take place over a period of 3 weeks and are occasionally taught outside, where the city itself becomes the classroom. We´ll visit visit historical or modern architecture sites and a project under construction. We will make several excursions out of Prague; specifically to Dresden, Kutna Hora, Vienna or Český Krumlov.
The lectures follow a business-oriented curriculum and revolve around career-oriented topics such as the architectural design of commercial buildings from a business perspective, the planning and management of cities’ growth, working with clients, leadership or cooperation between architects, land developers and real estate consultants. We will touch on land development processes and discuss how various market trends impact the design and development process.
Courses are taught by leading local and international architects and planners, professionals in land development, IT specialists and representatives from real estate firms. We select lecturers with real experience in order to make sure that they can give students a true impression of their field.
Part II - Internships
After the three weeks of lectures, students will take part in internships in prominent local and international architectural and development firms based in Prague or neighbouring countries. Students will have an opportunity to apply and improve the knowledge gained during the lectures.
ECCEDU internships offer a unique chance to acquire beneficial work experience and interact with some of the best architecture and development companies in Prague and abroad. 4 weeks of internship at a local architecture or real estate development company. The students will be matched with architecture studios based on their experience and skills and the studios' demands. Several offices available for internships will be in other European countries.
Internships are always under the close supervision and guidance of senior company representatives, who look after students, coach them and help them grow - for this reason each company doesn’t take on more than 1 or 2 of our students.
During their internships, students get assigned personalized tasks, designed to fit their personal and professional interests. Their internship work also typically includes office-based work related to the practice of architecture and design, such as research, working with various software programs, attending meetings, or visiting construction sites.
Students can choose internships in several international ECCEDU partners located mostly in Prague, but also in other European cities; internship opportunities range from the largest international companies to smaller firms with a focused area of expertise. In the past, these have included Jestico+ Whiles Architecture, Urbanlogic Ltd., Chapman Taylor Architects, Aukett Swanke, Ian Bryan Architects, D.A.M. architekti and AED Project, among others.
Part III – Design Assignment (4 weeks)
Students will also have a design assignment to work on over the duration of the program. It will be assigned on the first day of lectures, and will be related to the curriculum of the year. The design project will be led by two senior practicing Czech architects with extensive design and teaching experience. Other architects, selected developers and real estate consultants will be invited to participate as critics during the presentations.
ECCEDU Grand Reception
Traditionally, our Global Career Summer Programs open with a welcome gala evening for ECCEDU students.
This event provides an opportunity to meet the inspiring people who contribute to the ECCEDU community and meet the other ECCEDU students from the Law and International Business programs. In 2020 our Grand Reception will take place mid-July.
The Grand Reception also serves as an annual meeting place for top-level representatives from Czech and foreign companies, as well as politicians, diplomats, and academics.
Entertainment
Our students are offered a wide range of extracurricular activities during the program.
Our staff arranges various team-building events throughout the lecture period. The goal is to engage students in various free-time activities and introduce them to European culture in an entertaining and didactic way. We organize escape games, karaoke sessions, laser games and barbecues, go sightseeing in Prague and discover traditional products and shop for souvenirs. Trips around the Czech Republic and abroad are also organised: in the past, students have gone to Český Krumlov, Brno, Vienna, and Berlin.
Graduation & Certificates
ECCEDU provides its attendees with a Graduation Certificate. Following the end of the lectures session, we hold an informal certificate awarding ceremony.
ECCEDU partner companies will also be issuing reference letters for their students upon successful completion of the internship.
Price: 3,950 $ Apply NowExcursions
Excursion to Vienna, Austria
ESAC includes a trip to a secret village, the location is a not released until the day before. Students travel to a medieval village in the countryside for an overnight stay. Also included is a day trip to Karlstejn Castle by train.
There is also an optional trip to Vienna, Austria! This amazing capital city serves as its cultural, economic, and political center. As the former home of the Habsburg court and its various empires, this beautiful and exciting city has the trappings of the imperial capital it once was, and the historic city center is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The program includes all transport, hotel with breakfast, weekend public transportation pass, typical Austria dinner upon arrival, the excursion to the Vienna conference hall and walking tour. The cost is $550 and is included in your total price.
Gallery
Accommodations
Housing for this term is located in the residential neighborhood of Holesovice, in a recently renovated early 20th Century building, close to public transportation. Travel time from the dorms to the classroom is about 20 minutes using public transportation. There is a large park across the street and numerous restaurants and pubs nearby. All rooms have 24/7 access to Internet if you bring your own laptop. The residence hall is clean and spacious but it is not a five star hotel. The rooms have a comfortable bed, a desk, and a wardrobe for hanging clothes for each student. It comes with one set of linens which you can exchange bi-weekly or wash them in the laundry facility provided in the building. You must bring your own towels. Irons, ironing boards and desk lamps can be checked out. Some rooms are equipped with full bathroom facilities and others have shared facilities. You will be rooming with another ESAC participant of the same gender in double or triple rooms. Yes, you can pick your roommate if you want to.
Travel Documents
North American participants do not require any special documentation to travel to Europe; you may stay in Europe for 90 days. Other nationalities may require a Visa to travel to the Czech Republic, check with your local Czech Consulate to inquire. If a Visa is needed, ESAC will supply the proper documentation required to secure the Visa.
• Bring your Passport and Driver’s License to use for ID (copy of passport in case you misplace it)
• Bring a copy of your Social Security Card and/ or Copy of Birth Certificate (in case a replacement passport is needed)
• Bring a copy of your Student ID Card from your home university
• Bring your ICSE or ISIC Card (can be obtained through local travel agencies for about $35 and gets you student discounts to some museums, galleries and other entrance fees)
Fees & Deadlines
The official application deadline is February 15. However, in most years, if there is space still available, ESAC will extend the application and payment deadlines on a rolling basis. Selection is competitive therefore make certain you adhere to deadlines.
There is an application fee of US $100 (which will be applied to the program cost) due with the completed on-line application form to secure the candidate's space. This fee is non-refundable once accepted to the program. Deadline is February 15.
Applicants will be notified within 5 days of their acceptance into the ESAC program.
The full payment will be due on March 15 or 10 days after the application is accepted if applying after this date.
ESAC accepts checks, money orders, cashier's checks, money transfers and credit cards through PayPal (where available, additional 3% PayPal processing fee may apply). Please ensure the correct amounts are included. Make checks payable to European Study Abroad Center. If you require alternative payment plans please contact us.
Questions & Answers
What kind of students does ESAC accept?
ESAC accepts students who demonstrate that they are capable of studying and traveling overseas, meaning, we seek students who are curious, strong, independent, can cope with change and different environments. We want students who are flexible and can roll with language and cultural barriers and who are willing to take responsibility for their own actions and behavior. We want easy going people who don’t panic at every turn and can adapt to things like food, heavy travel, long walks and live without the comforts of home. Is this you?
How do I know a program based in the Czech Republic is right for me?
This short-term study abroad program, based in Central Europe, is designed for college students engaged in business, hospitality and humanities. Students from anywhere in the world are encouraged to apply, particularly if interested in an internationally focused program.
Is Prague a safe and user friendly city?
The beautiful capital of the Czech Republic remains one of the most popular destinations for students to participate in educational programs. It is a very safe place to travel and study and it is easy to get around either by walking or public transportation.
How do I get to Prague?
The airport in Prague is Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG), (formerly called Prague Ruzyně International Airport(, which is located approximately 15 kilometers outside of Prague’s historical center and has daily connection from/to major European cities and some cities outside of Europe. It is easy to get to the Czech Republic from anywhere in Europe by train. Remember, in summer the international trains tend to be full and you should book your seat at least a few weeks ahead. Most international trains arrive at Praha Hlavni Nadrazi (Main Station).
Will I have Internet access to keep in touch with family and friends while I am there?
There is Wi-Fi Internet access in the residence hall and on the campus and it is included in the program fee. You are not required to bring a laptop for the ESAC program, it is optional. If you choose not to bring your laptop, you can use internet cafes around the city as an alternative. It is not expensive and it is very convenient.
When I arrive, will someone meet me at the airport?
Yes! If you arrive the day the program starts, we will be at the airport and provide you with a transfer to your accommodation. Upon arrival at the residence hall, ground staff will welcome you and help you check in. That evening there will be a welcome party for the entire group so you can meet your peers.
What can I expect from my classes?
Traditional academic sessions are held on-site in modern classroom facilities, followed by lunch and afternoon site visits to business and industry. Some site visits are scheduled, while others will be arranged based upon an individual student’s interest. Faculty and local staff will assist students in arranging visits to companies they are interested in visiting as part of their program, providing an excellent opportunity for personal networking. A small amount of prep work is required up-front as part of an on-line pre-departure session designed to ensure all students are adequately prepared for their four-week stay overseas.
Will I have any free time to go site seeing or travel independently?
Yes! We recommend that you take full advantage of your free afternoons and weekend to travel around the city of Prague or to nearby villages. Local advisors are on hand to offer you recommendations of some excellent site seeing.