Faculty-led Program in Berlin: Art

ART 3001: Drawing III (3 credit hours) or ART 3050: Painting II (3 credit hours) or ART 3055: Painting III (3 credit hours) or ART 4000: Undergraduate Studio Drawing (3 credit hours) or ART 4000: Undergraduate Studio Painting (3 credit hours)

• Drawing III (ART 3001) prerequisite(s): ART 1011 and ART 1022
• Painting II (ART 3050) prerequisite(s): ART 2050
• Painting III (ART 3055) prerequisite(s): ART 3050
• Undergraduate Studio: Drawing (ART 4000) prerequisite(s): 9 hours in chosen area; consent of instructor
• Undergraduate Studio: Painting (ART 4000) prerequisite(s): 9 hours in chosen area; consent of instructor

Talk to your academic advisor about how this program’s course options would work for you! Participants will be enrolled into ONE of the courses listed above. 

The Studio Art in Berlin course is intended to provide UNI art majors - and a few non-art majors who have some confidence in drawing or painting - with a unique experience that combines contemporary art gallery visits with a hands-on response in the studio. Approximately four hours per day is the daily response to the provocative and insightful visits with contemporary artists and tours of local galleries and museums. Berlin artist/painter Jason Benedict is an experienced contemporary artist and program liaison who helps provide a rich experience of local art along with the stability of a daily studio regimen. This is an upper level art studio course, and will help students to synthesize concepts about contemporary art with their own art practice. Expected learning outcomes include a journal of both visual and written/verbal ideas and a body of work that is produced within the studio. Contemporary art readings will be assigned, and students will respond with written journal entries on a weekly basis.

Students will also be encouraged to think about cultural differences while in Germany, and will be expected to respond to these differences by way of their artwork and artist statements produced during the course experience.

Participation in this program requires several class meetings throughout the spring semester, although participants will be enrolled into a summer course. Please contact the program's course leader for more information on academic requirements.  

NOTES:

• Students planning to participate in the spring commencement ceremony in May can enroll in this summer term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the summer term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.
• Courses can also be taken to fulfill UNIFI elective credit.
• The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in their selected course.
• Preference will be given to Juniors/Seniors and to Art Majors, although all majors are welcome to participate.  

This program offers students an immersive experience in one of the world’s most vibrant contemporary art scenes. Over the course of a few weeks, participants explore Berlin’s renowned and emerging galleries, museums, and artist studios, guided by a local painter and UNI art professor Kenneth Hall. The program blends cultural excursions with daily studio work in drawing and painting, encouraging students to creatively respond to their experiences. It’s designed for art majors and other students with a background in studio art, providing academic credit and a deep dive into both art history and modern artistic practices

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Students will stay in a hotel or hostel arranged by the Study Abroad Center and paid for before departure. Most meals will be paid for by students out-of-pocket while abroad. Only 1-2 group meals are built into the cost of the program. Students are encouraged to try the local foods. 

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet Your Advisor:

Jamie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to Germany, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more. From your first steps meeting until you take off for your new adventure, Jamie will help you every step of the way. 

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

• Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to Germany