Interdisciplinary & Global Studies Division

Ifrane, Morocco

At A Glance

Sufficiencies, or Credit toward HUA or IN Minors or Majors

Term: A 2007

Project Opportunities: Islamic history, culture, and society

Housing: Residence halls at Al Akhawayn University

Sufficiency Coordinator: Prof. Bland Addison

Preparation: A minimum of one unit (three courses) in the humanities and arts

Application Deadline: October 5, 2006 (before 1:00 pm)

Location

Students will study at Al Akhawayn University (AUI), located in Ifrane, Morocco. Ifrane is 120 miles east of Morocco’s capital Rabat and 35 miles from the historic imperial cities of Fes and Meknes—cities famous for their revered mosques and colorful Berber migrants. With a population of about 15,000, Ifrane is a peaceful resort and recreational village in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, known for its French colonial architecture as well as a royal palace. Al Akhawayn University is a semi-private, English-speaking university founded by King Hassan II of Morocco and King Fahd of Saudi Arabia. Since about half the faculty hold American graduate degrees, AUI resembles in some respects an American university. Throughout Morocco, cous cous is the favorite meal in local restaurants and traditional pastries and fresh mint tea are typical snacks at sidewalk cafés.

Courses and Projects

Two-thirds unit of AUI courses will be devoted to the history of the Arab World, Islamic Civilization, and contemporary issues in North Africa. One-third unit will be an independent study project based upon course work and upon tours to Moroccan historic and cultural sites under the supervision of the on-site advisor. These projects may focus upon a variety of areas, including history, religion, art and architecture, as well as contemporary socio-political issues, with the goal of providing greater understanding of Arab and Muslim peoples. The unit of work will either conclude the sufficiency or can be credit toward a Humanities and Arts or International Studies minor or major.

Estimated Expenses:

Estimated Out-of-Pocket Expenses*      $800
      $150
      $500
   $1,450
Travel to site (RT airfare)
Local transportation
Weekend tourist activities
Estimated total out-of-pocket expenses
Expenses included on your WPI bill*      $800
   $1,650
Program fees
Housing, meals and services
Total reflected on your WPI bill+ $2,450
Estimated Total expenses   $3,900(tuition and on-campus housing not included)

* Subject to change due to fluctuations in exchange rate

NOTE: In calculating the extra expense to participate in an off-campus project experience compare this figure to expenses incurred while living on campus: groceries or meal plan, entertainment expenses, transportation, etc.

Maintained by webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: June 01, 2007 12:20:11