If you have questions about this program, email the
program leader listed below.
Technology, Innovation and Culture in Germany
Program Details
The arrangements for the travel, housing, meals, excursions and course content of
this program have been made by the leader. Questions about this program can only be
answered by the program leader listed below.
|
| Program Type |
Departmental |
| Program Location |
Frankfurt, Mainz, Darmstadt, Stuttgart, Munich, Reutlingen, Germany
|
| Course # |
SA 10931
|
| Duration |
Summer
|
| Upcoming Program Dates |
| Summer 2026 |
05/10/26 to 05/24/26
|
Please Note: Programs may be altered or adapted with little notice
Program Description
Experience Industry 4.0 in Germany – Maymester 2026
May 10 – 24, 2026 | MFET 49900 | 3 Credits
Program Overview
One of Purdue’s longest-running study abroad programs, Technology, Innovation, and Culture in Germany offers a two-week, three-credit Maymester course designed to immerse participants in the birthplace of Industry 4.0. This program blends academic depth with cultural discovery through visits to leading technology companies, R&D labs, and universities, alongside guided tours of historic and cultural landmarks.
Each year’s itinerary is unique, but the program consistently provides opportunities to see how German innovation has shaped industries worldwide. The 2026 program begins in Frankfurt, travels through the Rhine–Main corridor and Stuttgart, and concludes in Munich. Along the way, participants explore how manufacturing, digital transformation, sustainability, and cultural heritage converge in one of Europe’s most dynamic regions.
Potential Activities & Sites (based on past programs)
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Global Companies & Innovation Hubs: BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Rittal, Kuka Robotics, Merck KGaA, Evonik, Stoll, One Click Metal.
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Cultural & Historical Sites: Gutenberg Museum, Nuremberg Trials Museum, Neuschwanstein Castle, Nuremberg WWII bunkers, Zugspitze engineering site.
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Universities & Research Partners: Munich University of Applied Sciences, Reutlingen University, and other partners offering hands-on labs and extended study abroad pathways.
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Unique Cultural Experiences: Ayinger and Augustiner breweries, Bavaria Film Studios, Rhine River cruise, Englischer Garten e-bike tour, FC Bayern München (Allianz Arena).
What to Expect
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Innovation Up Close: Exclusive tours of production facilities, robotics labs, and advanced manufacturing sites.
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Cultural Immersion: City walks, regional cuisine, museums, and historic landmarks.
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Academic Integration: Daily briefings and reflections link site visits with broader themes of technology, globalization, and leadership.
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Professional Development: Build skills in cultural navigation, global collaboration, and applied learning.
Program Timeline
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Start: Noon, Sunday, May 10, 2026 – Frankfurt, Germany (FRA Airport).
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End: Sunday, May 24, 2026 – Munich, Germany.
Application Process
Enrollment is space-limited to 14 participants. Selection includes both the standard university study abroad application and a short interview to ensure the program aligns with your academic and professional goals.
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Complete the official Purdue study abroad application for this program.
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After submission, you will be contacted for an interview.
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Final selections are made following the interview process.
Itinerary
Each offering is unique and the upcoming offering is still being finalized. One of the longest running study abroad programs at Purdue.
Past program itineraries:
2025 Program Itinerary
2024 Program Itinerary
2023 Program Itinerary
2022 Program Itinerary
Academic Credit
This course is 3 credits (MFET 49900). Participants should consult with their academic advisor to confirm how this global experience may apply toward their individual plan of study.
Eligibility
This program is open to all Purdue undergraduates, regardless of major. Admission is selective, and applicants must complete a short interview as part of the review process.
Because of the exclusive nature of the sites and experiences included, participation is limited to 14 students. Interest in this program is consistently high, so applying early is encouraged.
Program Cost
Students pursuing program participation accept financial responsibility. Purdue will take measures to mitigate financial risks, although will not be liable for loss.
The 3-credit hour program fee is being finalized, with an anticipated range of $4,000–$4,500. This includes lodging, insurance, in-country transportation, admission to activities and events, and most meals. Participants will arrange and purchase their own airfare to and from Germany, which provides flexibility for extended travel before or after the program.
Please note that beverages, some meals, souvenirs, and personal expenses are not included. Past participants typically budgeted $300–$500 for these additional items.
A $500 deposit is required within five business days of acceptance to reserve your place in the program. The remaining balance will appear on your Summer 2026 Purdue tuition bill. Details regarding payments, cancellations, and refunds are outlined in the program contract.
This program may qualify for scholarships and financial aid. For more information, visit the Purdue Study Abroad website.
Application Deadline
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and spaces are limited. Spots will be confirmed as soon as selections are made, so applying early is strongly encouraged. If accepted, you’ll have five business days to submit your deposit and secure your place in the program.
Financial Aid
Purdue University financial aid may be applied to the costs of studying abroad. Students interested in receiving financial aid should
NOTE: Recipients of certain tuition remission and scholarship programs should pay careful attention to the regulations for using those benefits for study abroad. Ask your financial aid advisor about any limitations.
Click here for a list of scholarships and grants available to assist with the costs of studying overseas.
