Study abroad in the Czech Republic with IFSA
Prague
, Czech Republic

IFSA Tech Career Accelerator

Program Overview

FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJORS: GET CAREER-READY IN PRAGUE

Gain the skills today’s employers want as you continue essential computer science coursework with this specialized program, created in partnership with select U.S. universities.

Prague is a city leaning boldly into the future. Take advantage of its dynamic tech ecosystem as you get real-world experience and develop skills like collaboration and teamwork through team challenges, company visits, optional internships, and more. Stay on track for graduation with classes in AI, software engineering, database management, machine learning, and more with top notch faculty. Come back to campus with a strong resume, global connections, and newfound confidence.

There’s time to explore, too. Head to a café with friends for chlebíčky—open-faced sandwiches—or explore the city’s many wonders, including quaint Old Town, the 11th century castle, Vyšehrad, and David Černý’s street art. Get to know Czech people via meetups, meals, excursions, and more.

 

Another option: IFSA Tech Career Accelerator Plus. It’s the same specialized program, with the option to add a class at a Prague university.

Details at a Glance

Application deadline

Fall: April 15
Spring: Oct. 1

Minimum GPA

2.00

Credit load

12 - 16

Housing

Apartment/Flat

Instruction language

English

Prerequisites

None

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Academics

Mix and match 4 - 5 IFSA classes for a total of 12 - 15 U.S. semester credit hours. Most classes are worth 3 U.S. semester credits and are open to all students. Prerequisites for some classes may be required.

All students will take Essential Czech, a 1 U.S. semester credit hour class in contemporary Czech language and culture taught intensively during the first weeks of the program. By introducing key words and phrases in the classroom—and venturing out into the city to practice them—this class also provides insights into local customs and daily life. Right from the start, you’ll gain essential skills to communicate effectively and navigate in a new culture.

IFSA has carefully tailored a suite of computer science classes to fit U.S. degree requirements, which you can complement with social and historical surveys that invite you to engage with your host city and community. Please note, not all classes may be offered in a given semester depending on enrollment. Click on each link below for a detailed class syllabus.

CORE CLASS 

Leadership Development for the Tech Sector
As the demand for STEM professionals increases around the world, students pursuing careers in tech will require 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 through a curriculum that combines integrated professional skills development with an in-depth look at how the tech sector operates and carefully curated opportunities for active and applied learning. From client or challenge-based group projects to company visits, panel discussions, expert talks, and networking events, the robust and vibrant tech ecosystem in Prague will serve as an extension of the classroom and provide access to the leaders and companies that are driving change in the industry.

Upon completion, students will have a deeper understanding of themselves, an insider’s perspective of the sector, and an expanded global network. They will also have an enhanced portfolio that helps them to demonstrate their abilities and experiences. This includes an IFSA-exclusive credential from The Leadership Edge, a leading organizational development consulting firm in the U.S. that has partnered with IFSA to design this unique class. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

IFSA COMPUTER SCIENCE CLASSES 

Computer Networks
This class provides students with a deep understanding of what makes computer networks reliable, scalable, and secure, and thus essential components of modern society. It focuses on business and operation related computer networks: infrastructures for desktops, laptops, servers, and other TCP/IP related components. Students learn to evaluate multiple possible solutions given physical constraints, each with its advantages and further problems as well. Each topic of the class seeks to resolve previously presented problems and questions, while generating further ones that need to be addressed. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Database Management Systems
This class focuses on the design, implementation, data population, and administration of a database, and on the core concepts and characteristics of relational databases, in comparison with non-relational databases. Students learn the normalization techniques and standards to be able to design a relational database based on given requirements. Further on, data definition language (DDL) is used to specify the schema in a chosen database management system. A significant part of the class is devoted to the administration of the database, including SQL scripts and commands. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Since the 1960s artificial intelligence (AI) has been applied to complex programs that could achieve tasks considered very complicated even for humans. This class introduces key concepts of intelligent agents, including behavior and environment as well as their role in problem solving and knowledge and reasoning representation. Modeling intelligent behavior designed to solve problems can be approached via logical, probabilistic, and/or neural methods. Students evaluate their common points and differences and investigate examples from natural language processing in the machine learning context. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Introduction to Computer and Network Security
This class provides a solid foundation for securing data in a computer infrastructure, thus covering data security on the end devices (computers) as well as securing data in transit (networks) and on remote storage. Students will gain an understanding of CIA (Confidentiality, Integrity and Authentication) and AAA (Authentication, Authorization and Accounting) services on a data infrastructure that is both secured and scalable. Content progresses from the most important security definitions, concepts, and principles to the enforcement of such on the data path from the end-user towards the internet. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Introduction to Machine Learning
In this class, students develop an understanding of the theoretical foundations in machine learning (ML) and an ability to use its methods in practice. Several state-of-the-art models and algorithms will be discussed, including regression, clustering, decision trees and neural networks, and deep learning. Concurrently, students develop a solution for a test problem using tools discussed in the class, such as git, python, etc. This practical experience assesses the effectiveness of the chosen ML algorithms and provides an understanding of the key role of data selection and the evaluation of results. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Software Engineering
This class focused on the two dimensions essential for successful software development: software engineering proper, which includes software architecture selection and other technical details, and project management, including its planning stage. Students learn how to model software processes and analyze clients’ needs to design a suitable solution, including representations via Unified Modeling Language (UML). Throughout the term, progressive exercises survey requirements for system architecture, emphasize an object-oriented approach, and analyze methods for testing and evaluation. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

IFSA ELECTIVE CLASSES 

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, students 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 even influences the social and political dynamics of the city. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Beginning Czech I
A continuation of our Essential Czech primer, this class helps students develop a level of competence in contemporary Czech language sufficient for basic communication and comprehension, providing greater opportunity to both understand and practice grammatical structures. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Communications for the Tech Sector
Designed as an elective companion to the core class, this class is an ideal fit for students who aspire to develop their personal and professional communications skills and capacities to expert and lay audiences. Upon completion, students will have enhanced capabilities in communicating across disciplines, industries, cultures, and organizations in an inclusive manner in both written and oral forms. They will also have an enhanced portfolio that helps them to demonstrate their abilities and experiences in self-evaluation and product evaluation. (2 U.S. semester credit hours)

Comparative Perspectives in Human Rights
This class comprises practical and theoretical content on human rights in Central Europe. Students will examine violations of human rights throughout Central European history focusing on the 20th century, the impact of WWII, communist regimes, return of the democratic establishment, and the EU. The class explores contemporary human rights debates surrounding abortion, free speech, affirmative action, Islamophobia, and discrimination against race, sex, ethnicity, and sexual orientation—distinguishing between religion, state, and political correctness. Students will analyze social justice theories, assessing each theory and its consequences for Central Europe. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Democracies in Transition: Reimagining Europe
This class explores the current issues and changing dynamics in the European democratic process of integration, their historical roots, every-day demonstrations, and potential future directions. Students interrogate the drivers shaping a European identity in the constant tension between individual liberties and community and societal needs. Carefully selected themes illustrate the historical developments of democracy in the European continent and the establishment of its most important political institutions. Within the context of Prague as a European city, students deepen their ability to engage creative thinking and problem-solving skills from a position of knowledge and awareness. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Entrepreneurship: Creating a Plan of Action
Entrepreneurship is widely understood as engaging in a process to seek out or create opportunities for the purpose of starting a business. Yet, there is a gap between what entrepreneurs do to start a business and what some investors require prior to investing in businesses. The purpose of this class is to, first, think through and engage in the creation of a start-up and, second, develop and communicate a business plan to potential investors. Students will follow lean methodology as it relates to start-ups and prepare a traditional business plan. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

International Internship Seminar
Students are placed in individual internships but collectively take part in the seminar to prepare for the experience, understand expectations, set personal objectives, identify, and strengthen specific skills, critically reflect on their progress, share experiences, and learn from each other throughout their term. Students develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their professional areas, and Czech work culture. In this seminar, which is focused on application of theory to practice, students gain real world work experience while developing intercultural agility—skills and experiences that are critically important to personal, academic, and professional success. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Social Psychology
A comparison of familiar social settings with unfamiliar social norms and behaviors abroad, this class explores the basic theory and research of social psychology—studying the interaction between individuals and social groups and how the behavior of groups and individuals within them is mutually affected. Students will demonstrate and discuss the pillar concepts of social psychology, including conformity, conflict, persuasion, helping, perceptions, and social identity. Students will expand on the roots of feelings, beliefs, attitudes, and behavior locally and globally and explore your own attitudes and identity. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Tech, Ethics, and Public Policy
The class will explore the ethical and social impacts of technological innovation, integrating perspectives from a range of academic disciplines to examine the impact of technology on humans and societies. Students will be encouraged to consider their responsibilities as consumers and potential creators of new technologies and to think about their broader ethical and societal implications. This, in turn, will help students to explore and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of current and possible future policy interventions. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)

Truth, Storytelling, and Narrative: Becoming Czech
This class explores how identity—a sense of “Czech-ness”—is created, shaped, and communicated through literature and journalism. What are the challenges of modern Czech identity? How have Czechs shaped their memory of historical events and developments, through literature and journalism? Why do fairy tales play a prominent role in popular culture? How have subversive storytelling and narrative formed Czech identities? In studying these questions, students will grapple with the concepts of truth, fact, constructivism, and perspective and how they shape identity and belonging. (3 U.S. semester credit hours).

PREREQUISITES
Class prerequisites as stated in syllabi.

INTERNSHIPS
In Prague, IFSA students may choose to participate in a part-time, credit-bearing internship at sites that may include family businesses, corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Students undergo an individually tailored placement process and collectively take part in a methodology seminar that culminates in a final paper and presentation. Throughout the semester, students acquire real-world work experience while developing intercultural skills and experiences which are critically important to personal, academic, and professional success. Internship placements may include galleries and museums, business incubators, development agencies, religiously affiliated non-profits, marketing firms, and human rights advocacy groups. English-speaking placements are available.

Placement Highlights

For students with a background in computer science or a related discipline, internships may take place at tech-based enterprises or within the IT function of companies from other sectors. Internships might also take place at research-based organizations or think tanks focused on a range of tech-related topics and issues. Possible internships may include:

  • Intern for an international technology consulting firm that provides guidance and solutions to businesses across a range of sectors including Information Systems & Digital, Telecommunications, Life Sciences, and Engineering.
  • Intern for a global leader in cloud customer experience and contact center solutions, with a business spanning 100+ countries and a development office in Prague.
  • Intern for an organization that is working across academia, industry, and government to make Prague one of the global leaders in the research and application of AI.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Eligibility

  • You must be at least 18 years of age. Students under 18 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
  • You 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.
  • You must have completed at least one (1) year of study at your home institution before the beginning of the term.

Recommendation Letter
Not required.

Visa Requirement
This program requires a visa for all students.

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 courses 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.

Excursions

Activities and excursions are designed to pull you into the communities you visit and encourage cultural connections of every kind. There’s no extra fee to participate in these optional outings—everything is included in your program fee.

Below are examples from previous terms; outings may be different for your program. We’ll make every effort to run them all, but sometimes things we can’t our control, such as local regulations and health protocols, get in the way. As result, we cannot guarantee activities and excursions.

Activities

  • Aiming at Moonshots: A visit to the Artificial Intelligence Center at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (FEE), Czech Technical University (CTU) in Prague provides an opportunity to focus on post-grad research opportunities and case studies of future-focused problem solving in the industry.
  • Women in Tech: This guest lecture from a field professional focusing on the challenges women face in the corporate tech environment. What do leaders and companies do to advocate for equity in the corporate world. What can you do?
  • Network It: Join a local Meetups group meeting, or other local event, to network with people from the tech and interconnected industries. Be inspired by stories of successful professionals and share your academic and practical experience, career plans, or dreams for the world with others in Prague.
  • Cultural Life in Prague: The social, intellectual, and spiritual life of Praguians is deeply intertwined with cultural events, and classical music is an art widely embraced as local. Attending a concert at one of Central Europe’s most prestigious concert halls provides a deeply personal experience and gives you an opportunity to connect with the local psyche on a special occasion.
  • Cold War in Prague: This activity will take you deep under the ground, to a Cold War constructed nuclear shelter, which currently houses a local Cold War Museum. Through a group discussion, you will be able to connect your knowledge and impressions of the city landmarks to date with a more intimate understanding of what everyday life in the Cold War and in the Eastern Block looked like.
  • Eating Local-Food, People, and Sustainability: Gain a new understanding of your own views on sustainable living and eating. Discuss what “local” means in the European context, the challenges of sustainable food production and distribution, and the reasons for the current revival of local farmer’s markets, some essential questions will guide you through one of Prague’s farmer’s markets. Learn about what is local fare traditionally and currently and gain a new appreciation of eating out or shopping for food. The activity is followed by a tasting of specific local produce and products.
  • Czech Buddy Pizza Night: Meet local peers and find out what it’s like to be a local student. Network to put your foot in the door for exploring the local culture on your own, with a buddy as a guide.
Excursions
  • Back to the Woods Trip: This weekend excursion will take you to the western part of Bohemia to enjoy the hospitality of a Czech-Indian family sans your phone and Wi-Fi. Here you will be able to disconnect from the digital world and listen to the story of a local inter-cultural family while preparing your own naan on a real woodstove. You will wander around a beautiful landscape with a rich history of a border region and will be able to cross the German border on foot—literally where the Iron Curtain stood for 40 years. Finally, you will visit Karlovy Vary, the regional capital, with its beautiful architecture and history of healing industry and culture. To prepare you better for the context of this experience, the excursion is preceded by a film night where you’ll learn more about the relevant local and regional history.
  • Kutná Hora Trip: This unique location is definitely one where exploring the topic of religion in the Czech context and in your experience will generate discussion and thought, as we ponder the architecture and history of the town’s landmarks. On this day trip, we will visit the town with the famous “Bone Church” and discover why the bone church was built. Both Kutna Hora and Sedlec are UNESCO Heritage Sites.
  • Czech Outdoor Culture: Where do the locals disappear to every weekend? Escaping the town and enjoying the countryside has been a local tradition that goes back to the 18th century. Join in a similar experience on a walk through the Silent Valley to a small village just outside Prague. Like locals, you will enjoy not only the nature surrounding us, but also a lunch at a local brewery house.

Housing and Meals

Housing

Apartment/Flat

Meals

Self-Catering

Details

All students live in centrally located, fully furnished flats in Prague. Students have single bedrooms but will share a bathroom. Apartments are located in beautiful historic buildings and include a common dining area and kitchen with a microwave, refrigerator, oven and stovetop. There is no meal plan; students purchase their meals or cook for themselves.

Dates and Fees

Term

Term begins

Term ends

Program costs

Application deadline

Fall 2023

September 5, 2023

December 16, 2023

$19,275

April 15

Spring 2024

Early Feb. 2024

Mid-May 2024

$19,275 (estimated)

Oct. 1

Fall 2024

Early Sept. 2024

Mid-Dec. 2024

$19,275 (estimated)

April 15

Term

Fall 2023

Term begins

September 5, 2023

Term ends

December 16, 2023

Program costs

$19,275

Application deadline

April 15

Term

Spring 2024

Term begins

Early Feb. 2024

Term ends

Mid-May 2024

Program costs

$19,275 (estimated)

Application deadline

Oct. 1

Term

Fall 2024

Term begins

Early Sept. 2024

Term ends

Mid-Dec. 2024

Program costs

$19,275 (estimated)

Application deadline

April 15

Get started

Brittany Brooks

Brittany Brooks

Admissions Counselor

Eleni Katsarelas

Eleni Katsarelas

Prearrival Counselor

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