LEARNING ABROAD

This course takes us to the South Caucasus countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Since independence from the USSR, each of these countries has pursued individual paths in foreign policy, shaping alliances with neighboring countries. We will study these paths both individually and collectively. Individually we explore the complex relationships with not only the most proximate (geographically) powers of Iran, Turkey, and Russia, but also with the EU, US, China, India, and others. Collectively we look at the relationships between these three countries, conflicts, real and potential areas for cooperation, and infrastructure development.

The geography of the Caucasus is some of the most dramatic and fascinating in the world. It is truly a region where geography shapes history and identity. We will start and end in Tbilisi (Georgia) and in between visit Baku (Azerbaijan) and Yerevan (Armenia). We will blend formal lectures and workshops with experiential learning. We will come to understand the worldview from these countries and why we should be paying more attention to them.


-Courses-
REES 390 Geopolitics and Security in the Caucasus
Study the geopolitical and security landscape of one of the most fascinating regions of the world - and one very much shaped by geography. Our primary focus is the South Caucasus countries of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. We will look at the trajectories of each of these countries since independence and the relationship between them. We will then consider each country's foreign policy and geopolitical strategy as it navigates relationships near (Russia, Iran, Turkey) and far (the West, China, Central Asia, India). We will look at the internal conflicts and how they are exploited by countries seeking to hold/gain influence. From this vantage point we will also study the North Caucasus (in Russia).
4 credits

LANGUAGE COURSES (EXTENDED SESSION ONLY)
If you select the 2025 Summer + Language option, you will join either the 4-week Tbilisi: Russian as a Second Language or the Georgian Language & Culture program for the period May 23 - June 20.

RUSS 101-102/201-202/301-302/401 Russian Language Study
Russian is still a lingua franca for politics and business in much of the post-Soviet space. Take your Russian up a level with this intensive course and be prepared to use it throughout your travels in the Caucasus. Read more about the RSL course here. 4 credits.

REES 390 Georgian Language & Culture
Georgian language is unlike any other. Whether you already study Russian or another language and just have an overall fascination with language and linguistics or you would like to boost your resume with an eye toward a career in the region or simply want to integrate even more into the local community, this is for you. Read more about this course here. 4 credits.

REES 397 Internship in Area Studies (optional)
The SRAS internship course is designed to provide students with hands-on experience and academic enrichment while furthering their community understanding during their time abroad. Students will be placed in an internship based on their interests, availability, and relevant experience. Placements may be at a local NGO, business, media outlet, local museum, or local educational institution. Each internship comes with a diverse set of requirements and responsibilities that vary depending on its field. 2 credits.

For more information, and to apply, click here.

WHAT IS AN AFFILIATE?

An Affiliate is a partner organization that is evaluated and approved by the University of Utah. Affiliates offer classes in both English and the host language. You may take classes with other U.S. students, international students, or students from the host country. Many affiliates provide special services such as visa support, housing, cultural excursions, and on-site staffing to help you navigate your host country.

APPLYING TO AN AFFILIATE PROGRAM

1. Complete Learning Abroad 101. This is a short information session about programs, applications, financial aid, and scholarships. You can complete Learning Abroad 101 online.
2. Submit your Applications. You will submit TWO Applications for this Program. These Applications can be completed at the same time.
   • U of U Application- Click Apply Now at the top of your screen to get started 
   • Affiliate Application- Click on the Homepage link above to find your Affiliate Application. Contact the Affiliate if you have questions.
3. Commit to your U of U Application. You will receive an acceptance email to your Umail account. Log into your U of U Application and Commit to your Program within 3 business days of acceptance!
4. Complete the Post-Decision Steps. Finish the Post-Decision steps in your U of U Application by the deadlines provided.

ACADEMICS & ACCOMMODATION

• Courses and accommodation are organized by the Affiliate. Click on the Homepage link above for more information.
• This Program earns transfer credits. Information about Transfer Credit Pre-Approval and minimum credit hours are found in the Learning Abroad Handbook.
• The University of Utah accepts transfer credits for internships completed through this Program. If your Program includes an internship, see the enrollment information for Earning Global Internship Credits Abroad.
• Transfer credit does not count towards the Community Engaged Scholars Program.

DATES & TRANSPORTATION

• TENTATIVE dates are listed above. Compare the dates to the University of Utah academic calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts.
• You are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the host country for most Programs.
• Do not purchase your flight until you read the instructions in the Learning Abroad Handbook.

LEARNING ABROAD BADGES

Students enrich their time abroad by earning Learning Abroad Badges such as:

This Program is eligible for the Badges listed in the Fact Sheet above. Some Programs offer opportunities to earn additional Learning Abroad Badges through independent options. Click here to learn more about the Global U Program.

FINANCES

• Scholarships and Financial Aid may be available. Visit our Financial Aid and Scholarships page for more information.
• Contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid to determine if your financial aid and scholarships can be applied to your Learning Abroad program
• Information about Program Costs, Billing timelines & Due Dates are available to help you plan. 
• Affiliate Program Fees (non-billable) are established by the Affiliate and are in addition to any fees paid to the University of Utah. These fees are paid in lieu of University of Utah on-campus tuition and housing costs. Click on the homepage link above for more information on Affiliate fees and inclusions.
• Read the full Withdrawal & Dismissal Penalty Policy before applying.

PROGRAM ADVISING

• Program advising is available through our Learning Abroad Coordinators.
• You must complete Learning Abroad 101 before meeting with a Coordinator.

LEARNING ABROAD HANDBOOK

Interested in learning more about the academic, financial, and logistical aspects of our Programs? The Learning Abroad Handbook outlines the University of Utah's financial, disciplinary, administrative, academic, and logistical expectations. You’ll find videos, tips, and resources that help you make the most of your experience before, during, and after your Program.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

It is your responsibility to read, understand, and adhere to the terms and conditions of your Program. Terms and conditions are outlined in the Learning Abroad Handbook, Learning Abroad website, and in your Program Application. Terms and conditions may also be communicated to you through digital, verbal, and hard copy communication. Contact Learning Abroad with any questions or concerns.