Main navigation | Main content
Exchanges often require students to demonstrate a high degree of independence, adaptability, and flexibility because support and service may be different from a US university. Examples of differences that exchange students should be prepared to encounter include varying housing options, the amount and timing of program details, grading based less on assignments and more on final exams, and an academic calendar that may differ significantly from the University of Minnesota.
Cologne is located on an ancient trade route along and has thus been an international city for centuries. Indeed, 20% of the city’s current populace is non-German born. It’s the European headquarters of Ford Motor Company and the German headquarters for numerous international firms like Sony and Sara Lee. Located in the heart of the European Union, Cologne is also a massive transport hub serving major airlines and students have ready access to all of Europe.
The University of Cologne, in addition to being ranked among top European business educators, is rooted in a wide and rewarding international network. As a member of globally renowned networks and contributes to many innovative models of inter-university cooperation, the university has close ties to the international corporate community. Many of the faculty are leaders in their fields of expertise, and the International Relations Centre is a body for development in international business.
Fall semester: October to February*
Spring semester: April to July
Note that the German language crash course begins the month prior to each semester.
When selecting a semester exchange program, students should take note of academic calendars that differ significantly from the University of Minnesota. Consider potential conflicts such as holidays, family events, graduation ceremonies, and summer jobs/internships early in the selection process.
Work with Education Abroad Advisers and the Carlson Business Career Center for support addressing challenges.
*Fall semester exchange students are eligible for the Early Leaver program which accommodates a December departure.
Students are enrolled in 15 S/N Carlson School International Business (IBUS 5100) credits for a semester at the University of Cologne. Students take at least five courses to meet minimum requirements and choose their schedule from the full course offering in management, economics and social sciences.
Incoming exchange students are offered a four week German language crash course prior to the start of each semester at no additional cost and can choose to include a German language course in their semester schedule. Exchange students may study in German and/or English.
Qualified Carlson School seniors enjoy rare access to elite graduate level courses abroad at the University of Cologne. Students enroll in the International Business & Politics Program for a semester and choose from a diverse set of topics. Broad topic areas of Management and Economics offer many interesting courses. A select few examples include:
These estimates will vary based on student preference and exchange rates. All details subject to change based on economic and international factors. Most financial aid may be applied to study abroad programs.
| 2012-2013 Tuition (2013-2014 TBD) | $6,030 |
| Program Fee (includes program administration and intl health insurance*) | $2,500 |
| Transportation (to and from program site) | $1,200 |
| Documentation** (passport, visa, immunization) | $267 |
| Books and Materials | $200 |
| Room and/or Board | $4,300 |
| Essential Daily Living Expenses | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $500 |
| Total | $15,297 |
*Students should also maintain their U.S.-based health insurance plan while abroad.
**Subject to change. Please verify current documentation costs with the Consulate.
To be eligible for this education abroad program, you must be:
The University of Minnesota is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, or sexual orientation.
Application materials include the online application form, a resume, and essay. Submit a completed application by the February 28th priority deadline prior to the academic year in which you wish to participate. Programs that do not fill following the priority deadline will be reviewed on a rolling admissions basis.
Admission to all programs is based on review of your application by the study abroad selection committee, and selection notifications are sent out within one month of the priority deadline or receipt of application during rolling admission. Once selected, students are given the opportunity to confirm acceptance, at which point they are subject to Education Abroad policies.
Global Immersion
Carlson Global Institute
CSOM 2-210
Phone: 612-625-9361
Fax: 612-624-8248
exchgout@umn.edu