SIS Summer Abroad 2014:
Geneva:
WTO, Inter national
Tr a d e a n d D e v e l o p m e n t
Geneva, Switzerland
June 30– July 11, 2014
SIS Study Abroad: Discover More. Enrich your Experience.
SIS Summer Abroad 2014:
Geneva:
WTO, International Trade and
Development
June 30 – July 11
Program Guide
School of International Service
American University
Apply Now!
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but
must be received by
February 24, 2014
for priority consideration.
Updated November, 2014
WTO, International Trade and Development
June 30—July 11
Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................... 4
Program Description ...................................................................................... 4
Seminar ................................................................................................... 4
Site visits and field trips ............................................................................ 5
Internships in Europe...................................................................................... 5
Program Schedule and Registration Options ................................................... 5
About Switzerland.......................................................................................... 6
About Geneva ................................................................................................ 6
Who Should Attend ........................................................................................ 6
Program Orientation ..................................................................................... 6
Program Fees ................................................................................................. 7
Visa Information ............................................................................................ 7
Medical Information ...................................................................................... 7
Nuts and Bolts of Enrollment .......................................................................... 7
Application .............................................................................................. 7
Admission and Acceptance ....................................................................... 8
Registration ............................................................................................. 8
Financial Aid ............................................................................................ 8
Payments................................................................................................. 8
Withdrawal Policy.................................................................................... 8
Program Cancellation Policy ........................................................................... 8
Additional Information ................................................................................... 9
Visiting Students ...................................................................................... 9
International Students ............................................................................. 9
Alumni Audit............................................................................................ 9
Tuition Remission ..................................................................................... 9
Deadlines....................................................................................................... 9
Contact Information ....................................................................................... 9
Application Instructions................................................................................ 10
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SIS Summer Abroad 2014:
Geneva:
Introduction
The Graduate Institute’s summer program WTO, International Trade and Development provides a
unique opportunity for participants to enter into the analysis and atmosphere of multilateral trade as
they take part in the program just around the corner from the World Trade Organization. Students from
around the world will participate in the program, creating not only an opportunity to network with
others across disciplines and sectors, but across many international borders. The interdisciplinary nature
of the program is designed for graduate students with an interest in international trade and
development and is ideal for those who wish to improve their knowledge and expertise of current issues
in WTO negotiations.
Program Description
This two-week course, delivered by SIS partner The Graduate Institute in Geneva includes lectures and
discussions that will deal the many dimensions of the challenges faced by trade analysts and negotiators
across several interwoven domains. The Program consists of two components:
(a) A pre-departure workshop that will address the academics, logistics, policies, and guidelines for all
participants.
(b) A two-week course delivered by The Graduate Institute in Geneva and featuring lectures, formal
discussions, networking receptions, and visits to the WTO, missions to the WTO, and some of the UN
Organizations in Geneva.
The course explores key issues in international trade with substantive focus on the following:
1) Week One: World Trading System
This week provides an interdisciplinary review of the features of international trade and the world
trading system from the perspectives of economics, political science, and law. This part of the
course aims at providing participants with a fluent understanding of the economics of free trade,
the political implications of free-trade decisions, and the legal framework of the WTO system.
2) Week Two: Development and Trade in Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Services
The second week of the program will be framed by the question of how trade works for
development, and how the development paradigm poses particular challenges to a free-trade
regime like the WTO. Covering trade in manufacturing, trade in agricultural products and trade in
services, this week will integrate the economic perspectives in favor of trade, the legal frameworks
within which trade liberalization takes place, and the political implications that restrict and drive
liberalization.
Seminar, 3 credits, June 30—July 11
The Program consists of academic lectures and workshops, but also includes additional forms of
evaluation in order to complete the course for credit. The evaluation will consist of: attendance of all
academic sessions and workshops, a written essay exam that will take place at the end of the Program,
and a research paper that will cover the overall academic experiences of the program. The paper will be
due three weeks after the conclusion of the program. The topic is chosen by the participants with
guidance from the faculty advisor. Students will also be responsible for posting to the SIS Summer
Abroad blog as part of their participation in this Program.
Students will enroll directly at The Graduate Institute and receive credit from the Institute to be
articulated on their AU transcripts.
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SIS Summer Abroad 2014:
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Site Visits and Field Trips
During the course, participants may have the opportunity to interact with top officials while visiting the
WTO and visit missions to the WTO of important developing countries some of the UN Organizations.
Other optional social events for participants will be organized by The Graduate Institute, including a
welcome reception, barbecue, tours of the campus, and excursions on Saturdays, as well as a farewell
dinner. Students from all over the world from various schools will take part in this summer program,
which adds to the diversity in backgrounds, academic interests, and opportunity for students to expand
their global networks.
Internships:
Students interested in an internship abroad, in Europe or elsewhere can find a list of available
placements for our students on the SIS Summer Abroad website. An internship abroad can be done
before or after the Geneva program. While the Geneva program is separate from an internship
placement with SIS, with separate application processes, students should apply for both opportunities if
they are seeking to complete both course and internship credit in abroad over the summer. Pairing an
internship experience with a summer abroad course will enable students to obtain hands-on experience
working in a firm, NGO, and other number of organizations while complementing their study abroad
experience. It is a blend of a first rate academic experience with professional skill building in an
international setting that we strongly encourage students to pursue. More information about the
internship opportunities available and how internship abroad credit is earned can be found at:
http://www.american.edu/sis/summer/Internships.cfm
Tentative Program Schedule and Registration Options
April/May:
May—June
June 29:
June 30:
July 1–11:
July 11:
July 11–12:
Pre-departure meeting, date TBA
Brussels Internship Program (Optional)
Arrival in Geneva
Welcome Orientation and start of seminar
Seminar and site visits
End of seminar and farewell dinner
Depart Geneva
Students can participate in the Program in one of two ways:
1. Seminar only (3 credits)
2. Seminar and additional internship abroad (6 credits)
Our Partner: The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies
The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies is an institution of research and higher
education dedicated to the study of world affairs, with a particular emphasis on the cross-cutting fields
of international relations and development issues. Along with SIS, it is a member of APSIA (Associate of
Professional Schools in International Affairs) and is committed to prepares future policy-makers to lead
tomorrow’s world
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About Switzerland
With four official languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansch) and its location in the heart of
Europe, Switzerland is a true melting pot of culture. The Swiss culture blends those of its neighbors and,
as a result, many visitors believe that it offers the best of each culture with its own unique traditions.
Viewed by many as the premier summer and winter sports destination, a discussion of Switzerland is
likely to conquer up thoughts of beautiful lakes and snow capped Alpine peaks. While others might
think of delicious chocolate, fondue or, even, watches, those who have visited Switzerland know of its
enjoyable cities, like Geneva, Zurich, Basel and Lausanne, and its many charming mountain towns. With
a population of approximately 7.9 million people, Switzerland has a modern and prosperous economy
with a highly skilled labor force, low unemployment, and one of the highest GDPs in the world. More
recently, the country has see increasing pressure from neighboring countries, the EU, the US, and
international institutions to reform its banking secrecy laws. Switzerland has been making progress with
these reforms and assisting other countries to improve certain regulations, including tax evasion.
About Geneva
Situated along the banks of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps, Geneva sparkles as one of Europe's
most beautiful cities. Home to the European headquarters of the United Nations, Geneva has a long
history of diversity and tolerance dating back to the Protestant Reformation. Today, the city of Geneva is
a cultural center second to none featuring world class entertainment, top-rated restaurants, and
unlimited opportunities for recreation. Geneva is home to 23 international organizations, 200
government missions and permanent representatives, and over 300 international non-governmental
organizations (NGOs). Geneva's multicultural and international setting offers students a unique
opportunity to observe global and regional integration in action, efforts to achieve sustainable
development and peace, and actions to promote human security and alleviate poverty and individual
suffering. Geneva is a focal point for multilateral diplomacy and is at the center of the Multilateral
Trading System. Experts and policy-makers meet in formal and informal sessions to discuss a wide range
of issues including development, environment, human health, human rights, international trade, labor,
migration, refugees, telecommunications, and many more topics of international importance.
Who Should Attend
This multi-disciplinary Program invites applications from AU graduate students. The interdisciplinary
nature of the program is designed for graduate students with an interest in international trade and
development and is ideal for those who wish to improve their knowledge and expertise of current issues
in WTO negotiations. Geneva is an important destination for students interested in a career in
international trade or international affairs and, therefore, students focused on these areas of study are
encouraged to apply. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, an interest in issues covered
in the seminar and the ability to adapt to a cross-cultural environment.
Program Orientation
Students are required to attend a pre-departure workshop at American University and are provided with
background readings before leaving for Geneva. The mandatory orientation covers administrative and
logistical issues and also introduces students to the main features of the academic component of the
program. This meeting may take place over one or two days in April or May and is mandatory.
In the Fall 2014 semester, SIS will host post-program events for all students who participated in SIS Study
Abroad programs, including the student research panels during International Education Week (in
November). Students will also be asked to participate in a de-briefing session in order to assess the
Program’s impact on professional and career objectives.
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Program Fees
Students enrolled in the program will pay tuition for the course for which they are registered at the
prevailing American University tuition rate. For graduate students, the 2013 summer rate was $1,399
per credit hour (or $4,197 per course). The 2014 summer tuition rate has not yet been announced.
Participants are responsible for their own travel to and from Geneva, accommodations for the duration
of the program, most meals, any and all immunization and/or immigration documents, and all personal
expenses. Some meals are provided by the host institution. A suggested amount of $2,000 is
recommended for students’ personal use and spending while on the program. Mandatory international
health insurance is included in the program fee.
Housing is not provided to students on this program, but The Graduate Institute is able to provide
information to assist students in locating housing. Information and a list of recommended
accommodations can be found on The Graduate Institute website at: http://graduateinstitute.ch/
corporate/teaching/programmes/summer_winter/why_geneva/accommodation_en.html
Visa Information
Students are solely responsible for obtaining any and all visas or other immigration documents to enter
Switzerland. SIS supports students in this endeavor and assists with necessary letters or other
documents as needed. For more information on entry requirements, consult the following website:
http://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps/nameri/vusa/ref_visinf/visusa.html.html
Medical Information
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that travelers consult a health care provider 4-6
weeks prior to traveling abroad. It also recommends that travelers make sure their routine vaccinations
are up-to-date. For more information on vaccinations and travelers’ health issues, consult the CDC
website at: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/switzerland.htm
Nuts and Bolts of Enrollment
Applications
Students must complete and return all parts of the application, the link to which can be found on the
program website. No incomplete applications will be accepted. Completed applications should be emailed to SIS Abroad (sisabroad@american.edu) by February 24, 2014 for priority consideration.
Applications will be accepted after that date only if there is still space in the program.
Components of the application are as follows:
 Participant Application and Information Form
 Internship Interest and Application Form (if applicable)
 Independent Study Application Form and supporting documents (if applicable)
 Personal Statement
 Résumé/C.V.
 Unofficial transcript
 Academic Advisor Approval Form
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Admission and Acceptance
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis but must be received by February 24, 2014 for priority
consideration. As part of the review process, the SIS Director of International Programs may invite
students to meet with them to discuss the submitted application. Enrollment is limited to approximately
5 students. Once admitted to the Program by SIS, students will receive notification via e-mail. At that
time, students will be required to submit a non-refundable deposit of $250 to SIS, through a check or
money order made payable to American University, to secure their place in the Program.
Registration
Once the non-refundable deposit of $250 is received, students are registered for the appropriate
courses by SIS and receive e-mail confirmation from SIS. Once registered, students are billed through
the AU Office of Student Accounts for the program fee and course tuition.
Financial Aid
Students are able to use AU financial aid, including loans, to cover tuition for course(s). Some awards
may not apply to summer registration, so students will need to consult their financial aid advisors for
specific information. Students should also remember that in order to be considered full-time students in
the summer semester, they will need to be registered for 6 credits or receive in lieu certification from
their academic advisor. Students should consult their advisors to discuss their eligibility.
Payments
Students are required to pay the program fees (tuition and program fee) in full a minimum of seven
days before the start of the program. Students will be dropped from the course by the Office of the
Registrar if payment is not received by that time. If this happens, a reinstatement fee of $100 will be
added to the outstanding balance, all of which must be paid in advance for re-registration. To avoid
complications, students should be prepared to alert SIS about any financial aid that they have pending
for the summer.
Withdrawal Policy
Once students have accepted their place in the program and paid the deposit, they are committing to
participating in the program. Students may NOT drop the program courses online or through their
academic advisor.
Students needing to withdraw from the Program after having accepted an offer of admission must
contact the SIS Summer Abroad program coordinator in writing at sacco@american.edu.
Students who are granted special permission to withdraw from the program will be responsible for
any expenses incurred on their behalf prior to the date of withdrawal from the program; these
expenses are non-refundable. Tuition refunds in this program do not follow the standard refund policy
as outlined in the American University Schedule of Classes. No refunds are guaranteed after the
program start date and depend upon the terms of any/all contracts between American University and
affiliates of this Program.
Program Cancellation Policy
In the event that SIS has to cancel the Program prior to the start date, enrolled students will be notified
in writing and will receive full refunds for tuition, program fee and deposit.
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Additional Information
Visiting Students
This program is open to AU graduate students only.
International Students
Students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States may be required to obtain
immigration documents from AU to enter or re-enter the United States as a function of their
participation in the program. For information regarding visa status, benefits and limitations,
international students should consult with the office of AU International Student and Scholar Services, or
the appropriate office on their home campus. More information for AU international students is also
available online at: www.american.edu/ocl/isss
Alumni Audit
The alumni audit option is not available for SIS Summer Study Abroad Programs.
Tuition Remission
Current staff members at American University who are also enrolled as degree-seeking AU students may
apply their tuition remission benefit to the seminar portion of this program only. Staff members who
wish to apply the benefit to the program will need to seek the approval of their supervisor first and
submit written authorization as part of their application. For additional information, staff members may
contact the SIS Director of International Programs (rbellinger@american.edu).
Deadlines
Due to the logistics involved in planning this program, the application process begins immediately.
Applications received after the program is full will be put on a waitlist. Applications should be received
by February 24, 2014 for priority consideration.
Contact Information
Return completed applications to:
SIS Study Abroad Programs
E-mail: sisabroad@american.edu
Mailbox: SIS 116, Main Office (advisor approval forms only)
American University
4400 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20016
Fax: 202-885-2494
Questions? Please contact the SIS Study Abroad at sisabroad@american.edu.
SIS Study Abroad: Discover More. Enrich your Experience.
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