Binghamton University's Semester in London has been a part of the spring curriculum of the English Department of Binghamton University for over 30 years. It is open to all students, regardless of major, and is designed particularly for those with a strong interest in literature and theatre. In spring 2012 two English Department faculty members will present the core of the educational program in London: four courses especially designed to take advantage of the London setting and the accessibility of the English countryside. Additional courses in theatre, literature, history and politics will draw on the resources of the major London museums and the London theatre scene.
Courses meet in the Florida State University Study Centre, a well-appointed classroom facility in a handsome historic building one block from the British Museum. Students may also cross-register for courses offered through Florida State University in a variety of academic fields. Binghamton and Florida State courses are all offered as once-a-week seminars and do not meet on Fridays. This schedule allows for free time during the week to pursue interests in London as well as long weekends for group trips and independent exploration. Each course carries four units of credit.
The program also integrates group excursions and activities that compliment students' independent explorations of London and nearby destinations. Program trips to the theater are an almost weekly occurrence, and theatrical offerings range from Shakespeare to contemporary comedy. Day trips to locations like Stonehenge, Bath, and Warwick Castle enrich the program coursework and allow students to interact with each other and with their professors outside of the classroom. In addition, one or two overnight trips take students further afield: past destinations include the Lake District in the UK, and locations of interest in France—like Normandy and Paris.
To request an advising appointment with London program adviser Kerry Cook, email oip@binghamton.edu or stop by the London Desk walk in hours hours in the English Department to talk with Kerry.
Spring 2012 London Desk Hours:
Tuesdays 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. and
Wednesdays 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
The Faculty Director for the Program is Professor Joe Keith. You may contact him at: jkeith@binghamton.edu . The Binghamton Faculty teaching in London for Spring 2012 are John Vernon and Bernie Rosenthal. The Faculty for Spring 2013 are to be determined soon.
