Program description

The Reading London study abroad program focuses on the study and teaching of literature and is open to all interested undergraduates.  In particular, this program supports undergraduates in the English Education major by offering one required methods course and one literature course applicable to the major.  The program also supports undergraduates in the English major with two courses applicable to the major.  The program welcomes  Purdue graduate students on a case-by-case basis.  Course credit is available for those graduate students interested in pursuing graduate level work related to the study and/or teaching of literature in London. 

Program overview

The program begins on Purdue’s campus with a week of daily instruction.  The program then continues in London for three weeks; morning instruction takes place in a classroom setting, while afternoon instruction takes place at different locations throughout the city.  Once a week, the program will travel to locations outside the city of London to broaden students’ cultural understanding and apply that understanding to program concepts.

Program courses

ENGL 41400: Literary London
This course draws from specific works of literature to examine the culture, history and personality of the city of London. Students will explore the character of London as portrayed through novels, poetry, short story and film and extend their understanding of both literature and London through their personal exploration of the city.

ENGL 49200: Teaching Literature in Secondary Schools
This course addresses the theory, research and practice of teaching literature in today’s secondary English classrooms. Students will explore various educational issues and instructional strategies related to the teaching of literature, drawing specifically from the texts studied in ENGL 41400.

ENGL 59000: Independent Study
Independent study is offered on a case-by-case basis.  Course content and methods for ENGL 59000 will be determined by the program leader in accordance with individual students’ academic interests and needs. Aspects of study will overlap with ENGL 41400 and/or 49200 to align with the program's goals and activities.

Program housing

In London, students live in a residence hall with access to fully equipped shared kitchens. Students share two-person rooms with bathrooms ensuite. The residence hall maintains 24-hour security, with students entering and exiting by use of an individual swipe card. The residence hall is located in the neighborhood of South Kensington, off the King’s Road and within walking distance of multiple bus stops and two underground stations.

Program fee

The approximate cost of the program is $5000. This is only an approximation while final arrangements are made.

The program fee covers all tuition and enrollment fees for 6 credits of Purdue summer study.  While in London, the program fee also includes the following: academic travel, academic entry fees, housing, individual city transportation passes and several program meals.  

The program fee does not include airfare to/from London, meals, books and materials, international cell phone and passport application fees (if a valid passport is not already held).