Aquinas College is proud to partner with the JP2 Project at the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow, Poland. Dive deep into the life and legacy of Pope John Paul II. This summer program is specially tailored for Theology majors, Catholic Studies minors, and other students looking to grow in their faith.

  • GPA of 2.5+
  • 2 completed semesters at Aquinas College 
  • Not on academic probation or have recent, serious, or repetitive behavioral citations from the Dean of Students

This 6 week program during the summer allows students to earn credits that count towards the Theology and Catholic Studies major/minor requirements or as elective credits. Students typically take 2 courses (6 credits total). Please note, not all classes will be offered and there may be changes up to the start of the program. If a course is being offered that is not listed below, please reach out to the Office of International Programs, your advisor/department chair and the registrar for potential approval.

Courses

  • Karol Wojtyla & Vatican II (3 credits, THEO 205 Vatican II)
  • History of Faith and Culture in Poland (3 credits, HIST 299 History Elective for History major/minor or Catholic Studies minor)
  • Communications Inside & Outside the Church (3 credits, COM 299 Communication Elective/Social Science Gen Ed)
  • The Most Significant Works of Art in the Krakow History (3 credits, HIST 299 History Elective)

Included in the program fee are excursions designed to augment the program's curriculum, taking students to various sites both locally and regionally. In the past students have participated in a lovely mountain retreat and pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Częstochowa, visited Warsaw, toured the Auschwitz Concentration Camp and traveled to Wadowice - John Paul II’s home town!

Housing is provided on the outskirts of Krakow at the Be Not Afraid - John Paul II Center. Residence at the center is shared suite style with other students in the program. There is plenty of space for recreation, study, and community building.

The program fee is in addition to Aquinas tuition. As this is a summer program, additional fees for credits may apply.

Approximate cost Summer 2024: $4,800

Program fee includes:

  • Airport pickup
  • Housing
  • Meals
  • Laundry
  • Excursions
  • Local transportation pass
  • Course materials/books
  • Health/travel insurance

Please visit the Money Matters page and review the budget worksheet for information on scholarships and other expense considerations.

After being accepted into the program by the Office of International Programs, you will be invited to apply to the program. The John Paul II Project accepts and reviews applications on a rolling basis, meaning that spots are awarded to qualified applicants as soon as they apply. If you wait too long to apply, there might not be space available.

Besides general information, prepare/have the following handy for the JP2 Project Application:

  1. Name and contact of your physician
  2. Name and contact of 2 people who can recommend you.
  3. One will be requested to write a reference letter.
  4. One can be Office of International Programs staff
  5. A brief Statement of Purpose explaining why you want to participate
  6. An idea of which classes you’re interested in taking.

JP2 Project Application Process:

  1. Fill out the online application, including Statement of Purpose
  2. One reference letter is submitted directly to the JP2 Project.
  3. Applicants are notified within 5-10 business days after the application is completed.

Visa

Obtaining a visa prior to arrival is not required for US citizens.

Scholarships

Once you have committed to this program, the Office of International Programs will reach out to the Financial Aid Office to confirm your participation and they will determine your eligibility for any internal scholarships.

Additional opportunities are listed under the “External Scholarships” section of the Money Matters page.

More info

Reach out to the Office of International Programs or review the John Paul II Project for additional program information.

 

CONTACT INFO

International Programs
(616) 632-2067
bechtoldh@aquinas.edu
Academic Building, Room 359