Morocco: Ifrane Semester

Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane

Al Akhawayn University (AUI) was founded in 1995 as a private university by King Hassan II of Morocco with contributing financial support from King Fahd of Saudi Arabia. It is the first and only English language university in Morocco developed on the model of US higher education. Montana State University has had a partnership with AUI since its founding, and this unique and wonderful CCIS program offers one of the few opportunities U.S. students have to study in North Africa.

AUI is grounded in African, Arab, and Islamic culture and models its organizational structure, curriculum, language, and teaching methods on the American system of higher education. All classes are taught in English, allowing students interested in learning the Arabic language to simultaneously take courses in their field of study.

Course Offerings

Al Akhawayn offers unique Arabic Language and Culture programs for CCIS students interested in building expertise on the Arab world. All courses, except language study courses, are taught in English. Students can choose from courses (15 credits) in the following fields: Accounting, Arabic, Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Computer Science, Culture Studies, Economics, Engineering, English, European Studies, French, Geography, History, Human Resource Development, Humanities, International Relations, Islamic Studies, Literature, Mathematics, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Social Sciences, Sociology, Spanish, and Women’s Studies. For additional course information, visit the university homepage, http://www.alakhawayn.ma

Academic Highlights

The highlight of the academic program at Al Akhawayn is the opportunity to take in-depth Arabic language and culture courses at all levels, from beginning through advanced. Focusing on both spoken and written Modern Standard Arabic, the language program also includes a Moroccan Colloquial Arabic component that teaches basic polite words and phrases unique to Morocco. This course component is essential to help students integrate, adapt, and learn about North African culture through language.

For students interested in other subject areas, AUI has established research centers for natural resources, strategic studies, and Islamic culture and arts, and women’s studies. The campus offers a state-of-the art library, laboratory, and classroom facilities that support the university’s undergraduate program. Program offerings include Business Administration, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Engineering, and languages.

 

Student Life

Students live in spacious, on-campus residence halls with Internet compatible rooms. AUI offers a full array of student organizations from sports to concerts and cultural programs. Sporting equipment is available in the Student Activities Office and students also have access to sports facilities including a running track and Olympic size pool. There is a medical clinic on campus, as well as a library, student union, and bookstore.

Please Note: If you require disability accomodation please contact us right away.   

Alumni Feedback

"At AUI you are able to get a real understanding of the Middle East. When you are taught from an Arab perspective rather than a western one, you see and understand a broader perspective. I was immediately welcomed at AUI by their friendly staff and faculty. The students will make you feel at home, especially when they prepare their famous mint tea for you."
-Aaron Moore

"My time in Morocco helped to make Arabic a part of me and it was exciting to put my language skills to practice. Travel a lot, take advantage of nearby cities like Fez, a place full of exciting and challenging experiences."
-Jeremy Fowler

"My favorite memories of Morocco were the wonderful people and friends I met, learning the ancient and beautiful language of Arabic, the cities of Chefchaouen and Fes and all their delights, and of course climbing Jebel Toubkal, a 4,000 meter peak in the Sahara Desert."
-Jason Walker

"Expect hospitality, ancient tradition and architecture, and adventures from the Mediterranean to the Sahara."
-Anna Lindstedt

"It would be difficult to choose one memory. I have many fond memories. An aspect of the program is sharing one's room with another Moroccan student. My roommate Mouna became a very close friend and we are still in touch. We'd drink Shai together in the afternoon and I went to visit her family several times in a town nearby. She taught me to make some Moroccan dishes and we had several feasts with friends in the dorm. The generosity and kindness of the Moroccan people left an indelible mark on me."

"Morocco's overwhelming landcapes, the vivid marketplaces, the generosity and hospitality of the people make it a place one's always longing to return to."
-Catherine Dratz

"I enjoyed the program that I was in so much that after graduation I got a job and moved back here to Morocco."
-Kasey Adamek

 

Duration

Fall 2013: August 23 - December 20

Spring 2014: Jan 15 - May 14

Application Deadline(s)

Fall: April 1
Spring: November 1

All application materials must be completed through the online application and/or received at Montana State University by these dates.

 

Eligibility Requirements

Students must have at least a 2.5 GPA and have sophomore status to be eligible for the program.

Costs

Fall 2013:$9,200

Spring 2014: $9,200

 

Costs Included

Tuition 15 cr, double room, airport pickup, orientation. The cost also includes board, medical insurance, access to on-campus health center, and internet.

Costs Not Included

Airfare ($1,200), books, personal costs

All costs, fees, and dates are subject to change without notification. Please contact the appropriate individual to verify all costs, fees, and dates for this program.

Related Links

Wikipedia Ifrane, Morocco

 

Apply Online Now:

Al Akhawayn University (AUI) - Online Application

Please feel free to contact us with questions.

Alyson Roberts, CCIS Study Abroad Advisor
Office of International Programs
400 Culbertson Hall
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT 59717

Phone: 994-7044
Fax (406) 994-1619
E-mail: CCIS Study Abroad Advisor

How do I apply?

 

Start the CCIS Study Abroad application process by clicking the link above to proceed to the online application through Montana State University.

In addition to the online application, you will need to submit the following items:

• Official Transcript
• Copy of Passport (Biographical Page)
• 2 Passport-Size Photos
• Home University Approval Form
• AUI Supplemental Application 
• 2 Academic Recommendations

 

Course listings for Al Akhawayn University can be found at the following website: http://www.aui.ma/DSA/Admissions/admission-eng/admissions-undergrad-coursedescription.htm  

*All MSU students must make an appointment with the MSU Office of International Programs before completing the application.

*Please note: If you require any disability accomodations please contact us right away.  

All costs, fees, and dates are subject to change without notification. Please contact the appropriate individual to verify all costs, fees, and dates for this program.