Academics
The Chicago Programs' curriculum is designed to provide students with a conceptual framework for approaching and synthesizing their academic, work, and personal experiences while living in Chicago.
Students in all three Chicago Programs participate in the team-taught Chicago Core Course, while also completing program-specific work through program seminars, internships, and independent study projects. Note: Students participating in the spring trimester option will take the core course, program seminar, and will have a choice between an internship or an independent study project.
In both the Core Course and Arts Seminar, students will encounter a wide range of artists and arts administrators and will be asked to consider the conditions under which art is produced in Chicago.
Through their Independent Study Project and Internship, students will expand and refine their artistic visions and aspirations in the context of the city’s art forces.
Additional general information regarding the academic structure, program content, and semester schedules can be found through the appropriate links under "Academics" in the left column of this page.
Current and prospective students may also visit the BES program's local website for "real-time" information about the program via the link noted in the caption of the picture on this page.
Program credit
Students should consult with their academic advisors and off-campus study offices before applying to the ACM Chicago Programs. Most students participating in the semester-long program receive 16 semester hours, or the equivalent, distributed variously as general education, independent, or departmental work. Students participarting in the spring trimester option should typically receive credits equivalent to a trimester of academic work. However, the specific terms for receiving and distributing credits are determined by each student's home institution.
ACM and Chicago Programs faculty and staff will be happy to work with students and advisors to provide the appropriate information for facilitating the crediting process. It is important that these considerations be made before students enter a program.
Local institutional application deadlines
Many institutions require students to submit local applications for off-campus study as a preliminary step to participation in a program. Such applications may be due well in advance of the ACM application. Students should consult with their campus advisors for information about local application procedures and deadlines.