IFSA Summer Tech Career Accelerator

Applied Leadership in the Global Tech Sector (required)
As demand for STEM professionals increases around the world, students pursuing careers in tech need industry knowledge, the ability to think critically, the capacity and creativity to solve problems and innovate, and the professional competencies to be key contributors and leaders in a dynamic sector.

This class is designed for students with a background in computer science or related disciplines who are interested in augmenting their academic pursuits with professional skills development through an in-depth look at how the tech sector operates and curated opportunities for active and applied learning. From client or challenge-based group projects to company visits, panel discussions, expert talks, and networking events, Prague’s robust tech ecosystem serves as an extension of the classroom and provides access to the leaders and companies that are driving change in this industry.

Upon completion, you’ll have a deeper understanding of yourself, an insider’s perspective of the tech sector, an expanded global network, and an enhanced portfolio that helps you demonstrate your abilities and experiences. (4 U.S. semester credit hours)

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Since the 1960s, AI has been applied to complex programs that could achieve tasks considered very complicated even for humans, such as optimization problems or face recognition. Today, AI has developed into a fully-fledged field, connected with big data, data analytics, and machine learning. In this class, you’ll learn the key concepts of intelligent agents, their behavior and environment, and their role in problem solving and knowledge and reasoning representation. Modeling intelligent behavior of the agents designed to solve problems is a challenging task, and several models have been developed (logical, probabilistic, and/or based on neural networks). This class includes a survey of basic methods, looking for common points and differences. In particular, we’ll discuss the modeling of learning with examples from natural language processing, put in the context of machine learning (ML). (4 U.S. semester credit hours)

Introduction to Computer and Network Security
The goal of this class is to provide you with a solid foundation for securing data in a computer infrastructure, covering data security on the end devices (computers) as well as securing data in transit (network devices) and on remote storage (data centers and/or cloud). To complement this, it also presents user authentication and accountability (logging). The goal is to present you with the enforcement of CIA (confidentiality, integrity, and authentication) and AAA (authentication, authorization, and accounting) concepts/services on a data infrastructure that is both secured and scalable. Building on necessary definitions, the class introduces key security concepts and principles, and continues to enforce such concepts and principles on the data path from the end-user, at each device, towards the internet. Content is presented in a constructive manner, starting with the most important definitions, security concepts and principles, and continuing to the enforcement of these concepts and principles on the data path from the end-user, at each device, towards the internet. From an entity perspective, expect to cover the end user, workstations and servers, switches, routers, firewalls, data storage, and cloud services. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Web Applications Development
This class offers a comprehensive introduction to the foundational concepts, tools, and methodologies necessary for designing and building full-stack web applications. Students will delve into every facet of web development, from mastering user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design principles to implementing front-end data binding frameworks. Additionally, curriculum covers the development of back-end API-driven solutions, integrated with advanced database technologies. This class helps students gain a robust understanding of how to conceptualize, design, and deploy production-ready web applications. The class includes both theoretical study and practical application, involving research, design, and the development of innovative web application projects. (4 U.S. semester credit hours)

Digital Marketing and E-Commerce
This class delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of digital marketing and e-commerce, where students explore strategies for leveraging digital channels to drive business growth and customer engagement. From search engine optimization (SEO) and content marketing to social media advertising and e-commerce platforms, students gain practical experience in crafting integrated digital marketing campaigns. Through case studies and industry projects, students develop skills in optimizing digital marketing efforts to reach and convert target audiences effectively. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Statistics and Data Mining
Statistics and data mining module covers an important part of data science that deals with extraction of interesting, useful, and previously unknown knowledge from large databases. It is an interdisciplinary area using methods of machine learning, AI, database systems, and high-performance computing. This class introduces the fundamental concepts of statistics and data mining, with focus on modern trends and use of advanced machine learning and AI-based methods. It provides an in-depth study of various data mining algorithms, models, and applications, with emphasis on pattern mining, classification, and clustering. It emphasizes relevant connections with other areas of data science, such as predictive machine learning algorithms, to build a unified approach to data analysis. Students are required to complete five assignments: three practical assignments with programming components built on strong foundations provided by a theoretical assignment and a reflection essay. The programming language for the assignments is Python, but other languages and frameworks can be used as appropriate. The class also aims to help students develop the desirable research-based approach to solving problems: initial analysis, identifying appropriate methods and techniques, and then applying them in a theoretically sound manner. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Essential Czech
If you’ve never studied Czech, consider this optional, introductory class in Czech language and culture. By introducing key words and phrases and venturing out into the city to practice them, you’ll gain essential skills to communicate effectively and navigate in a new culture. (1 U.S. semester credit hour)

Architecture and Design in Prague
The class introduces the European artistic architecture and design of the Czech capital. By examining artists, architects, and their works, you’ll acquire a deeper understanding of the city’s character and how patronage, power, and politics have shaped the urban landscape. The class covers the periods of European architectural development from medieval to modern, distinguishing the various artistic styles and movements; the ways in which architects and designers conform to, or disrupt, artistic conventions; and how their work reflects and influences the social and political dynamics of the city. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Czech History and Culture: Echoes of 20th Century
Explore the rich and multifaceted history of the Czech Republic in the context of Europe, examining the cultural and social factors that have shaped the nation’s unique identity throughout the 20th century. Visit various locations connected to key moments of the recent past and study how historical developments affected Czech society as we know it today. By analyzing numerous textual and visual resources, such as public memorials on the streets of Prague, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic interplay between politics and culture and how the country addresses the achievements and traumas of its recent past. The class will also provide analytical frameworks to help you reflect critically on complex social phenomena, both past and present, at local and global levels.  (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

INTERNSHIPS

IFSA internships include real-world work experience, along with developing intercultural skills and experiences that are key to personal, academic, and professional success. Expect to devote a total of 120 hours working with your host organization, with supervision from your seminar instructor, coordinated by on-site IFSA team members. In addition, interns complete the International Internship Seminar for 3 U.S. semester credit hours. Internships are not remunerated.

Students have interned at galleries and museums, business incubators, development agencies, religiously affiliated non-profits, marketing firms, and human rights advocacy groups in Prague.

Your goals are carefully considered, tailoring the placement process to ensure the best possible fit. Keep in mind that final placements depend on your skills, prior experience, and availability. Although every effort is made to match your placement with your preferred field or area of business, it can’t be guaranteed. Internships are conducted in English.

Application. After you submit your application, resume, and IFSA Internship Intent Form, an IFSA Enrollment Counselor and an on-site IFSA Team member will work with you to identify your professional strengths, review your goals, and refine your internship interests to establish a match. From there, you’ll have an interview with your potential internship host. You will be provided with tips and resources to prepare for your interview.

Sample placements. The following are examples of internships IFSA students have recently completed. Placement options vary from year to year.

• Business, communications, and marketing coaching. Students have assisted with operations management, support community management and social media, conducted marketing research, advised on marketing strategies, and developed website content.
• Non-profit, human rights organization. Students have conducted international research and written reports to support the fair migration policy project.
• Not-for-profit legal advocacy institute. Students have supported event organization, written research reports, and produced content for local and international activities.
• International business consulting firm. Students have provided recruitment support; supported communication management market analysis; reviewed code and helped with in-house software development; and helped with basic account and payroll services.
• Language-training company. Students have supported marketing strategies and a campaign for a teacher-training program; produced content for international target audiences in various media; assisted with alumni engagement; and developed strategy for implementing a new remote learning program.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Eligibility

• Must be at least 18 years of age. Those under 18 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
• Must be currently attending or recently graduated from a U.S. or Canadian community college, technical college, two-year college, four-year college, or four-year university.
• Must have completed at least one (1) full-time year of study at your home institution before the beginning of the term.
• GPA: 2.0

TRANSCRIPT

Upon completion of your program, IFSA will send an official Butler University transcript to your home university with your coursework converted to the U.S. semester credit hour system. You will also have access to an unofficial transcript in your IFSA Student Portal. The transcript reflects classes taken, credits attempted, and grades earned during your term abroad. This service is included in your study abroad program at no additional cost. See our Transcripts page for more information.