International Programs offers a unique international academic opportunity for high school students who wish to “jump-start” their college educations and enhance their university applications. 

Students apply for their selected programs in the fall, and the academic experience begins in the spring semester, when students participate in university-level coursework, utilizing Florida State's internet-based course portal, Blackboard. This interactive teaching tool allows local and out-of-area students to participate, and facilitates learning about the subject matter and host culture that provides the foundation required to fully benefit from the traveling portion of the program. Finally, during the summer (semester) faculty, and advisors explore a host culture, bringing the academic material to life! Students experience art and architecture first hand, while becoming a part of the diverse cultures of our world.

Upon successful completion of the program, these students earn academic credits toward a baccalaureate degree while they are still in high school. Currently, students may choose among four programs depending on their area of interest and level of preparation; Classical Latin Studies (6 semester hours of college credit); European Humanities (9 semester hours of college credit); European Humanities Spring Break (3 semester hours of college credit); Intensive Spanish (8 semester hours of college credit).

A word from the director of the College for High School programs:  When I was in high school, one of my teachers invited me to travel abroad one summer. Little did I know that when I said "Yes" to her invitation, it would alter my life forever. That first trip overseas was a true inspiration and it literally changed my whole perspective on life.

It has been my observation over the many years of teaching and taking high school students abroad that they return home with a new and more positive perspective on academics as well as a healthy respect, understanding and appreciation for people of other cultures. I've also noticed that after traveling and studying in a foreign country, students tend to appreciate their own culture and country in a much more profound way. They also learn to share, cooperate, and get along with people they live with 24/7, and friendships are formed that last long after they return home.

Accepting the invitation back then to travel abroad made all the difference in the world for me. Now it's my turn to do the inviting. I hope you'll join us and be a part of this wonderful educational opportunity that makes your previous and future classroom learning really come alive, enhances your college application, and provides an unforgettable experience of a lifetime!

Joan W. Cassels, Assistant Director, FSU International Programs

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