Cultural Program

What is the Cultural Program? 

Bring your classroom study to life with faculty-led study trips and cultural excursions to some of the most fascinating places in France, Europe and across the world. The trips are closely tied to AUP’s curriculum; by grounding academic theory in real-world contexts, you will develop critical-thinking skills and a better understanding of interdisciplinary approaches. These are vital tools when you want to embark on a meaningful, international career. 

We know that many global explorers arrive at the University wanting to immerse themselves in an international setting; the Cultural Program provides a launchpad to do so skillfully and sensitively. Get inspired by immersing yourself in new perspectives and cultures. Collaborate closely with faculty and your peers, while, opening your minds to new ideas and varied viewpoints. Some trips are recurring, while others are one-offs; but most of them are closely tied to individual courses and curricula. 

The Cultural Program also sets you out on an inspirational pathway of lifelong learning. Alumni often tell us that study trips are among the most enduring memories of their time at AUP. Whether you study place branding in Iceland, Middle Eastern history in Turkey or sustainable development in India, the skills and knowledge you will develop through the program will stay with you long after graduation. 

→ More about Cultural Program study trips

Download the Cultural Program Brochure Fall 2023 

Study trips have been an integral part of AUP’s unique approach to international liberal arts education since the University’s founding over 60 years ago. The Cultural Program was co-founded by Walter J. Brennan, the program’s first Director, and Marie-Louise Viborel DeLamater, the wife of our founder, Dr. Lloyd A. Delamater.  

From study trips to the Soviet Union in the 1960s to today’s master’s students visiting The Hague to experience war-crimes tribunals, AUP has long offered opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the complex political issues of the day. 

→ More about the history of the Cultural Program 

The Cultural Program Office offers summer program students the ability to opportunity one of the cultural excursion trips outside of Paris through our Explore France Series, as well as one of our Discover Paris Series activities right here in the city.