We will hold an informational meeting on Nov. 19, 2025, at 6 p.m. in Weimer 1064. Sign up to be added to our list of interested students: https://forms.gle/FLDBAkHhzs7HMj769

For specific questions, please contact Prof. Ted Spiker and Prof. Tim Sorel. It’s best to include both of them in an email. tspiker@ufl.edu tsorel@jou.ufl.edu

ZURICH HIGHLIGHTS*

  • Historic Old Town (Altstadt): Explore cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and landmarks like Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, showcasing Zurich’s historical depth.
  • Vibrant Arts Scene: Visit Kunsthaus Zurich for modern and classical art or attend performances at the Zurich Opera House.
  • Cosmopolitan Vibe: Zurich’s diverse population and international community create a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
  • Stunning Natural Surroundings: Nestled by Lake Zurich and the Alps, the city offers outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and lakeside relaxation, perfect for weekend adventures.
  • Efficient Public Transport: Zurich’s tram and train network makes commuting easy, with student discounts widely available.
  • Café and Nightlife Scene: From cozy cafés along Bahnhofstrasse to lively bars in Zurich West, students can enjoy a vibrant social life.

VIENNA HIGHLIGHTS*

  • Explore landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, reflecting Vienna’s Habsburg legacy.
  • World-Class Arts: Visit the Belvedere for Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces, the Kunsthistorisches Museum for classical art, or the Vienna State Opera for iconic performances (student tickets are budget-friendly).
  • Music and Festivals: As the “City of Music,” Vienna offers concerts at venues like Musikverein and many music festivals
  • Vibrant Student Life: Districts like 7 (Neubau) and 9 (Alsergrund) buzz with student-friendly cafés, bars, and affordable eateries like Naschmarkt, Vienna’s famous food market.
  • Outdoor Activities: Relax in Prater Park, bike along the Danube, or hike in the nearby Vienna Woods. Day trips to the Alps or Wachau Valley offer scenic escapes.
  • Efficient Transport: Vienna’s U-Bahn, trams, and buses are reliable and student-discounted, making the city and surrounding areas easily accessible.
  • *Planning Timeline: This trip is currently in the planning stage and the itinerary will be finalized by March 15, 2026.

Coming Soon! But we will offer courses that will work as professional electives for CJC majors and electives for non-CJC majors. They will focus on various skills and critical thinking regarding media, communications, content creation, and more, with a special focus on the culture of Switzerland and Austria.

  • Applications open on or about November 20, 2025
  • Spring 2026: We will hold two meetings to help you prepare for the program.
  • March 1, 2026: Study abroad Canvas shells open with some pre-trip coursework.
  • May 5 – May 28, 2026: Program travel to Zurich and Vienna.
  • June 1, 2026: Classes continue online with some post-trip coursework.
  • June 18, 2026:  semester ends.

Cost

Undergraduate estimate: $6,800
Bright Futures students estimate: $5,600

Prices do not include airfare. 

Financial Aid

Studying abroad can be an incredible experience, but it’s understandable to have concerns about funding. Here are some tips to help you navigate the financial aspects of your study abroad program:

Explore Financial Aid Options: Visit UF’s Financial Aid office before October 15, 2025, to discuss available aid opportunities. They can provide guidance on scholarships, grants, and loans that you may qualify for.

Bright Futures Scholarship: If you’re eligible for the Bright Futures program, remember that you can receive around $1,200 in tuition aid for your study abroad experience. Make sure to confirm your eligibility and understand the application process.

Set Up a Savings Plan: If possible, start saving a little each month leading up to your study abroad departure. Every bit can help!

Budgeting: Create a detailed budget for your time abroad, accounting for tuition, meals, accommodation, and personal expenses. This can help you identify areas where you can cut costs.

Vienna, Austria: Elegance and innovation in the city made famous by Mozart and Beethoven. A crossroads of art, music, intellect, and policy. Top of page: Zürich, Switzerland: Traditional meets cosmopolitan in Switzerland’s cultural hub. A lovely walkable city boasting renowned museums and historic churches.

Faculty

Ted Spiker

Ted Spiker

Associate Dean and Professor, Journalism
Program Director
Professor Spiker teaches journalism, sports journalism. He is the author of several books and nationally distributed magazine articles.
Specialties: Advanced writing, sports media, creative media.

Tim_Sorel

Tim Sorel

Professor, Media Production, Management and Technology
Director of study abroad logistics and academics

Professor Sorel creates documentary films concerning pediatric health, literacy and wellness.
Specialties: Digital storytelling, content marketing, cinematography, photography.

Bridget Grogan

Bridget Grogan

Adjunct Instructor in Journalism
Professor Grogan teaches writing, TV news, content marketing and data journalism.

Christine Bucan

Christine Bucan

Professional in Residence – Department of Public Relations