Dates
July 3 - July 24, 2026Subjects
Photography & Videography, International Affairs, Political Science, Art History, HonorsDeadlines
Dec. 1: Apply Early & Save $100Feb. 5: Regular Deadline
Program Overview
The KIIS Prague program is located in one of the most popular spots of Europe. Prague–a UNESCO World Heritage site–is justly seen as one of the most spectacular world capitals noted for its arts, music, literature, and theater. The Prague program includes a three-day trip to southern Bohemia and a one-day excursion to the Nazi concentration camp in Terezin as well as visits to various sites in Prague. Located in the “heart of Europe,” Prague provides an ideal location for further explorations.
Note: Studying abroad likely is more physically strenuous than you are used to at home. KIIS study abroad programs typically involve approx. 5-10 miles of walking (approx. 10,000-20,000 steps) or the like in a day, including the possibility of walking, hiking, and climbing stairs in heat and humidity, over elevations at higher altitudes, and over rocky terrain. See Health & Wellness for more information.
Program Director
I was born in Prague. I hope to share my love of Prague with you. With the post-Cold War changes, Prague became a renowned destination for its arts, culture, and beauty. My study abroad philosophy is inspired by Mark Twain's: "Travel is fatal to prejudice and narrow-mindedness, …" I hope this will also guide your experience.Dr. Zbynek “ZB” Smetana
Photo Gallery
-
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
Courses
Courses are taught in English and are 3 credit hours. You may enroll in 1 course.
A selective chronological study of the major visual arts from Gothic through modern times. Taught exclusively on sites (churches, museums, galleries, etc.), the course surveys art of the Western tradition. Emphasis is placed on understanding art within a particular historical and social context, giving students a sense of the history of ideas as well as their visual expression.
Independent course work done on an individual basis under the guidance of a selected faculty member. Students are expected to propose a specific topic related to the sites, monuments (works of art), or artists available for a study in Prague.
The course will examine the legacy of authoritarian rule in the former Czechoslovakia and more global threats to liberal democracy posed by authoritarian populist parties and politicians we are witnessing throughout Europe and the world. It will also explore the ways Czech activists, thinkers, including Kafka, Havel, Benda, and others, and citizens have resisted authoritarianism during Germany’s WW2 occupation and the country’s postwar communist regime.
Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of fine art photography using their cellphone cameras or DSLR cameras, while exploring creative image and video making as a means of personal expression with an emphasis on digital process. By examining the basic formal/concepts foundation of photography and narrative through lab based projects, as well as participating in discussion and critiques, students will build a visual literacy for application in daily life.
All KIIS course credit is awarded by Western Kentucky University. Prior to your KIIS program, please speak with your home campus academic advisor and/or study abroad office to determine course equivalencies. Grades will be transferred to your home institution in mid-August after the completion of the program. Course offerings are subject to change according to enrollment. For more information, visit Transcripts & Grades.
Program Excursions
-
Historic Center & Prague Castle
-
National Theatre
-
Old Jewish Quarter
-
Southern Bohemia
Group Flight
ESTIMATED COST $1,900 - $2,000
The KIIS Prague program offers a group flight option where you can travel to/from Prague, Czech Republic with other students and faculty. If you choose this option, KIIS will purchase a round-trip flight ticket for you. The flight cost will be added to your final program fee on April 1. The group flight will depart from Cincinnati or Louisville.
If not selecting the group flight, you are responsible to purchase your individual flight.
The flight to Prague is overnight arriving the following morning. On the return, the flight from Prague to the USA departs and arrives on the same day. Visit Flights and Passports & Visas for more information.