Core Art Program at IAU College

Founded in 1957, IAU (Institute for American Universities) is one of the oldest education abroad programs in Europe. In addition, IAU is registered with the French Ministry of Education and recognized by the Rectorat of the Université d’Aix-Marseille. IAU offers several different semester and summer program options in Aix-en-Provence: The School of Humanities and Social Sciences, the French Honors Program, and The Core Art Program.

 

The Core Art Programs are open to students with any level of French and any level of art experience. Through this unique program, studio art production is combined with study in the liberal arts disciplines. Your art studies will include spontaneous perceptual painting and drawing, intensive critical dialogue, extensive museum visits, and a community of students and artists at all levels.

 

  • Located on the “Route de Cézanne,” the school’s location on the outskirts of Aix-en-Provence has many advantages. Among them are its light-filled space, the studio’s proximity to the famed Chateaunoir and Saint Victoire, and most importantly, its calm and contemplative atmosphere, conducive to sustained, artistic concentration.
  • The goal of the core art programs is to help you develop a holistic approach to the study of art and art making. It will enhance your capacity to see and your awareness of the relationship between perception and imagination. You will form an integrative relationship between knowledge and intuition, perception and concept, and self-expression and global awareness.
  • You will draw and paint – every day, if possible, working from models, children, musicians, and dancers. You will interrelate figure drawing, portraiture, landscape, and still-life with interpretive copies of master works, memory work, and sketchbook journals. Study in museums and reading/writing assignments explore the correspondences between natural and artistic forms, and finally, group and individual critiques are essential to each student’s process. 
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Academics & Eligibility

Learn about the academic opportunities and requirements for this program.

Semester Course & Credit Information

Students attending the Core Art Program for a semester take 15 credits, including the following:

  • Art Criticism & Aesthetics Seminar (mandatory core class, taught in English)

  • Drawing (mandatory core class, taught in English from beginner to advanced)

  • Painting (mandatory core class, taught in English from beginner to advanced)

  • One elective in Art History

  • One French language class (taught at The IAU School of Humanities and Social Sciences)
Students attending the Mediterranean Core Art Program for a semester take 15 credits, including the following:
  • The Mediterranean Seminar (mandatory core class, taught in English)
  • A mixed media studio course (mandatory core class, taught in English)
  • A drawing and painting course (mandatory core class, taught in English)
  • One elective in Art History, Museum Studies, or Music
  • One French language class (taught at The IAU School of Humanities and Social Sciences)

Language Requirement: Open to all levels of French. Classes available in English & French

Possible U.S. Credits: 15-16 semester credits per semester. Normal course load is 5 courses. Classes are taken with other American students.

Final Transcript: Issued by IAU (Institute for American Universities).

Students who require credit from a regionally accredited U.S. School of Record, Fairfield University, must request this at least 60 days prior to their program start date. There is an additional fee of $550 for programs of six credits or more (semester).

Summer Course & Credit Information

Summer students at the Core Art Program will take 2 mandatory art classes taught in English: Art Criticism & Aesthetics (3 credits), as well as Painting & Drawing (3 credits). 

 

In addition to that, you can also take an optional third class (elective) of your choosing.  (Pricing varies depending on how many credits you take.)  

 

Although you may take French language as your third class, it is not mandatory to take French on this program.  Students who opt for the 9-credit core summer program should have 3 elective classes approved by their home institution, in case of changes in course availability or schedule conflicts.

 

Language Requirement: Open to all levels of French. Classes available in English & French.

Possible U.S. Credits: 6-9 semester credits (2-3 courses). Classes are taken with other American students.

Final Transcript: Issued by IAU (Institute for American Universities)

Students who require credit from a regionally accredited U.S. School of Record, Fairfield University, must request this at least 60 days prior to their program start date. There is an additional fee of $550 for programs of six credits or more and $300 for programs less than six credits.

 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Minimum GPA 2.50 (Students with GPA between 2.20-2.49 will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students with a GPA of 2.19 or lower will not be considered.)
  • Language Requirement: None. Open to students with any level of French
  • At least 17 years of age
  • Graduated from high school
  • Transcript from most recent institution attended (unofficial is ok). If you have attended more than one institution, please submit a transcript from each institution.
  • Art Portfolio, if you have previous art experience. If you don’t have previous art experience, a portfolio is not required.
  • ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
  • Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. If you don’t have a valid passport, confirmation of an expedited passport application is required before you can be accepted into this program. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.

Course Finder

All courses with course number FRE are taught in French. All other courses are taught in English, unless otherwise noted. Classes are assigned on a first come, first served basis, so it is best to apply early!

 

COURSE OFFERINGS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

 

Use the filters above to search for courses or click "View All Courses" to browse available courses on this program.

Internship

Semester or academic year students with an Advanced level of French have the option of earning 3 U.S. credits for an internship at IAU in Aix-en-Provence, France.

 

Summer students with an Advanced level of French have the option of earning 3 or 6 credits for an internship at IAU in Aix-en-Provence, France.

 

IInterested students must have completed at least 4 semesters of college French (or equivalent) and are asked to provide a CV (résumé) prior to the beginning of the semester. The placement process will begin after arrival with an interview during your first week abroad. Your placement will have a 10-day trial period to make sure it’s a good fit for both you and the company or organization. As this internship is credit-bearing, you will be required to write periodic reports throughout the semester. The cost of the internship is included with your ASA program fees! 

 

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Costs & Dates

Program pricing and important dates.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA's control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program's arrival and departure date.

* Prices subject to change. Financial aid available.

ASA is a small program, but that’s what makes it so great. The personal attention can’t be beat and I made plenty of friends outside of the group.

Chelsea Francis

I would recommend ASA to other students because not only was it a great price for what you get, but it was so much fun and the site director was great.

Morgan Pecknold

ASA is a very thorough program. It is well organized and structured, yet allows for plenty of independent activity and personal responsibility. There were many times where I felt foreign, but I rarely felt like a tourist. I engaged in the culture with the ASA program, I didn’t just take a picture and a souvenir

Aaron Bannasch

Housing

Explore your accommodation options for this program.

French Homestay

Traditional Homestay with Meals - Students living in a shared homestay offering daily interactions with family and meals. The host offers daily breakfast, 6 dinners per week, and 1 load of laundry per week. Rooms are double or single occupancy. We cannot guarantee a single room. Bathrooms are shared. Homestays generally host 1-3 students at a time. Each living situation is unique.

Student Residence Apartment

Students live with other students in furnished apartments especially designed for student living. Some apartments are in apartment buildings with other university students studying in Aix-en-Provence. No meals are provided, but students have access to a fully equipped shared kitchen within their apartment. Bedrooms are typically double or triple occupancy. Bathrooms are shared with other students within the apartment. Bed linens and towels are included. Students will have access to coin operated shared laundry facilities or be within walking distance to laundromat. The student residence apartments are located throughout the city and are within convenient access to grocery stores, shops, restaurants, and pharmacies.

Excursions

Explore the region with organized trips and cultural activities.

Excursions and museum visits are an integral part of the core program and are included with your program fees. Students visit small towns and villages of Provence, which in the past have included St. Remy, Arles, Luberon Valley villages of Bonnieux and Lacoste. In addition, semester students typically go on a longer painting trip to Paris, Giverny, or Venice.

 

Le Luberon

Le Luberon

Day Trip

Renowned for its natural beauty, Le Luberon is a typical Provençal countryside featuring quaint hilltop villages, stone houses, vineyards, olive groves, and fields of lavender and sunflowers. In the village of Lourmarin, a Renaissance chateau that was once a fortress now hosts concerts and art exhibitions in this very fashionable town.
Moustiers Sainte Marie & Lac de Sainte Croix

Moustiers Sainte Marie & Lac de Sainte Croix

Day Trip

Moustiers Sainte Marie is a medieval village where you can explore the picturesque streets and enjoy a fantastic panoramic view from a 12th century chapel. We’ll also visit the Lac de Saint Croix, a lake known for its beaches and water sports.
Giverny/Venice (Core Art Program Only)

Giverny/Venice (Core Art Program Only)

Overnight

The Core Art Program includes one unforgettable, multi-day painting trip every semester. Fall semester students typically enjoy a trip to Giverny, where they will paint and draw in Monet’s garden. Spring students typically visit Venice, where they will paint and draw along the famous canals and lagoon.

Experiences

Unique cultural and educational experiences included in your program.
Lavendar Fields

Lavendar Fields

Take a stroll through the lavender fields surrounding Aix-en-Provence
Open Air Markets

Open Air Markets

Shop at an open air market fresh fruit, veggies, flowers, cheese, honey, and much more
Arles

Arles

Explore the Roman amphitheater in Arles
Promenade de la Torse

Promenade de la Torse

Have an impromptu picnic at Promenade de la Torse
Mont Sainte-Victoire

Mont Sainte-Victoire

Hike Mont Sainte-Victoire
Handmade Soap

Handmade Soap

Provence is famous for natural handmade soaps - breathe in the scents and select your favorite
Crepes Galore

Crepes Galore

Devour freshly made crepes in endless flavor variations both sweet and savory
French Cuisine

French Cuisine

Become an expert on French cheeses (fromage!) Enjoy a buttery croissant and a coffee between classes at a local Patisserie.

Program Inclusions

What's included in your program fee.

What's Included

  • Exclusive "A WORLD OF CARE" Student Support Suite

  • HOUSING in a French homestay or shared student apartment.

    • Traditional Homestay With Meals - includes daily breakfast, 6 dinners per week, and 1 load of laundry per week.

    • Student Residence - includes access to a fully equipped kitchen. Access to coin operated shared laundry facilities or within walking distance to laundromat. No meals. 

  • TUITION  at IAU for the maximum number of credits or courses indicated on the program course offerings page. Enrolling in more than the maximum number of credits/courses (if permitted by the host institution) will result in an additional fee. 

  • ACADEMIC CREDITS: Students who receive pre-approval from their home institution can transfer the credits they earn to their home institution.

  • OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT: Final transcript is issued by IAU. Upon completion of the program, ASA will provide one free shipment of your final transcript to your U.S. institution. Students who require credit from a regionally accredited U.S. School of Record, Fairfield University, may request this at least 60 days prior to their program start date. There is an additional fee of $550 for programs of six credits or more (semester) and $300 for programs less than six credits (summer).

  • TEXTBOOKS are included on loan and must be returned to IAU at the end of the term. For students enrolled in The Core Art program, art supplies/materials for mandatory core art classes are included.

  • EXCURSIONS: For students attending The School of Humanities and Social Sciences or the French Honors Program: 1 day excursion is included. For students attending The Core Art Program, 1 overnight excursion is included on semester programs, and 1 day excursion is included on summer programs. Locations to be decided.

  • CULTURAL ACTIVITIES in Aix-en-Provence (museum visits, walking tours, etc.)

  • INTERNET ACCESS: Students will have free Internet access at their host institution and in their program housing.

  • AIRPORT PICK-UP: Group ground transportation is provided from Marseille (MRS) airport for students who arrive on the official arrival date, by the designated time.

  • SITE DIRECTOR: Students will have an on-site director to assist them with any academic or cultural difficulties they may encounter.

  • MEDICAL INSURANCE: Comprehensive international medical insurance is included. Click here for details on benefits and coverage.

  • VISA ADVISING: Students are ultimately responsible for obtaining their visa (if required for their term), but ASA will provide detailed, helpful information upon acceptance about which visa students will need and how to go about applying for one. Please click here and scroll down to “Student Visa Information” to find out if a visa is required for your program.

  • PRE-DEPARTURE HANDBOOK & ON-SITE ORIENTATION.

  • SUBSCRIPTION TO SAFETURE SAFETY-ENHANCING MOBILE APP.

  • SUBSCRIPTION TO MINDHAMOK: a 24-7 service designed to support your mental, physical, and social wellbeing throughout your program. You can find out more about mindhamok in our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs.

  • $150 RETURNING STUDENT CREDIT toward your next ASA Summer program! (Up to 2 Summer programs). 
  • $350 RETURNING STUDENT CREDIT toward your next ASA Semester program! (Up to 2 Semester programs).

Not Included

  • Round-trip airfare and travel expenses to and from the program location

  • Local transportation

  • Personal expenses

  • Daily lunch; one dinner per week (for homestays) or all meals (for student residence)

  • Meals on excursions

  • Visa, if required

  • Transportation from the airport if the student does not arrive on the official arrival date by the designated time

  • Transportation back to the airport at the end of the program

For academic year students and those enrolling in more than one session, housing, medical insurance, and other ASA services and benefits are not provided during the break between sessions. For academic year students, medical insurance during winter break can be purchased for an additional fee, if it is required to get your visa.

Cost of Attendance & Budget Sheet

Program Calendar

Key dates and milestones for your program.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA's control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program's arrival and departure dates.

  1. January 17, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Aix-Marseille (MRS) airport on Jan. 17 between 9am and 7pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. January 25-26, 2026

    Orientation

  3. January 27, 2026

    Classes Begin

  4. TBA

    Excursion - location TBA

  5. Mar. 2 - 13

    Mid-semester exams

  6. Mar. 14 - 22

    Spring Break

  7. Apr. 30

    Last day of classes

  8. May 4-8

    Final Exams

  9. May 9

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. January 24, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Aix-Marseille (MRS) airport on Jan. 24 between 9am and 7pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. January 25-26, 2026

    Orientation

  3. January 27, 2026

    Classes Begin

  4. TBA

    Excursion - location TBA

  5. Mar. 2 - 13

    Mid-semester exams

  6. Mar. 14 - 22

    Spring Break

  7. Apr. 30

    Last day of classes

  8. May 4-8

    Final Exams

  9. May 9

    Housing move-out; students depart

  10. May 9

    Housing move-out; students depart
  1. May 30, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Aix-Marseille (MRS) airport on May 30 between 9am and 7pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. June 1, 2026

    Orientation

  3. June 2, 2026

    Classes Begin

  4. Jun. 5

    Orientation Day Trip

  5. Jul. 10

    Final Exams

  6. Jul. 11

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. May 30, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Aix-Marseille (MRS) airport on May 30 between 9am and 7pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. June 1, 2026

    Orientation

  3. June 2, 2026

    Classes Begin

  4. Jun. 5

    Orientation Day Trip

  5. Jun. 19

    Final Exams

  6. Jun. 20

    Housing move-out; students depart

  1. June 21, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    For group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Aix-Marseille (MRS) airport on Jun. 21 between 9 am and 7pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible.
  2. June 22, 2026

    Orientation

  3. June 23, 2026

    Classes Begin

  4. Jun. 26

    Orientation Day Trip

  5. Jul. 10

    Final Exams

  6. Jul. 11

    Housing move-out; students depart

Accessibility & Inclusion

We are committed to making study abroad accessible to all students.

Diversifying study abroad is a priority for ASA. Please check out Diversity Abroad’s France Travel Guide. If you have questions or concerns about how any of your identities may impact your study abroad experience, please contact us.

 

  • Culture & Ethnicity

  • Disability Accommodation

  • Food & Diet

  • Financial Aid & Money Matters

  • First Generation

  • Gender Identity & Sexuality

  • Mental Health

  • Non-traditional Students

  • Religion

Ready to Apply?

Take the next step in your study abroad journey. Contact our team to learn more about our programs and start your application today.

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