Academics

Courses Overview

With a strong focus on Central Europe and global issues, our classes encourage students to explore new ideas and engage with diverse perspectives in an international setting.

Each semester, students enroll in five courses, including Elementary Czech Language, earning a total of 16 academic credits. All courses are taught in English and are listed under the Charles University Faculty of Humanities.

AEP fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating classroom environment. Courses follow a seminar-style format, where students are encouraged to actively participate, ask questions, and engage in thoughtful discussion. With small class sizes (maximum of 15 students), students benefit from close interaction with instructors and peers.

Many courses include Czech and Erasmus students, creating a dynamic, multicultural learning space that broadens perspectives. To support academic engagement and consistency, attendance is required in all classes

Subjects Offered

AEP offers a wide range of courses in the humanities and social sciences—from politics, economics, and international relations to history, media studies, and art. Students from a variety of majors will find options that align with both their academic goals and personal interests.

Course Schedule

Classes are held Monday through Thursday. AEP does not hold classes on Fridays, giving students a long weekend to explore Prague and travel.

Academic Level & Credit

Courses are designed for upper-level U.S. university students (junior/senior level) and align with North American credit standards. Home university academic advisors are encouraged to review syllabi for credit approval.

Grading

All students receive a cumulative letter grade for each course corresponding to a four-point scale (4.0=A, 3.67=A-, 3.33=B+, 3.0=B, etc.). The exact breakdown of each course grade will vary from course to course, although typically the final grade reflects a combination of examinations, class participation, term papers, and/or group projects and presentations.

Transcripts:

Transcripts are typically sent to students' home institutions within 6 to 8 weeks after the end of each semester. To request additional transcripts (either hard copy or scanned), please contact AEP and provide the email/mailing address for the transcript(s) and any other relevant details.

Independent Study

Students with specific academic interests may contact the AEP team to discuss the possibility of Independent Study. Approval is required from the AEP Director, the supervising professor, and the student’s home institution.

Czech Language Requirement

All AEP students enroll in an elementary Czech language course. This course spans the entire semester and includes an intensive introductory session during orientation. It’s designed to provide students with practical language skills and a deeper connection to daily life in Prague. Students with previous Czech experience may be placed in an advanced section.

Liberal Arts and Economics Courses

No more than 15 students per class

Courses with Czech & European Students

Mandatory Elementary Czech

Take 5 Classes per semester, worth 16 US credits

Transcript Issued by Charles University

Located in the Schebeck Palace in the Heart of Prague

Taught by leading scholars and professionals

Regional and Global Focus

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FAQs

Everything you need to know about our program. Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please contact us.

Get in touch

How do I register for courses?

Course registration usually takes place about one month before arrival in Prague. Before registration opens, students receive a draft schedule and a list of course offerings. The exact registration date and instructions will be sent via email well in advance.

Is there a minimum number of classes I need to take?

Yes, all students are required to take five courses, including the mandatory Elementary Czech Language course.

Can you guarantee that my selected courses will be offered?

Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee all courses will run. Courses that do not meet the minimum enrollment requirement may be canceled. You will be asked to choose backup options during registration.

How do I transfer credits to my home university?

At the end of the semester, AEP issues official transcripts, which are sent directly to students’ home universities. It is the responsibility of the home university to process the credit transfer. We recommend checking with your study abroad advisor to confirm which AEP courses meet your academic or degree requirements, as credit decisions are made by individual institutions.

Do I have to purchase course materials?

No. All required course materials, including the Elementary Czech textbook, will be provided at no additional cost.

I have a specific question. Who can I contact?

Please contact the AEP team directly at [insert contact email or link].

I have learning accommodations. What should I do?

AEP follows ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. If you require learning accommodations, please have your home university send an official letter of accommodation to [insert email address], so we can make appropriate arrangements

Where do classes take place?

All AEP classes are held in the Schebek Palace, the historic building that houses CERGE-EI. You will not need to travel between buildings for your courses.

I’m interested in the IEF Certificate. How do I qualify?

We’re excited that you’re considering the International Economic and Finance (IEF) Certificate! To qualify, you must enroll in at least three economics-related courses during your semester abroad. For full details, please visit the IEF Certificate website.