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[Lock Haven] IHECS-Institut Des Hautes Etudes Des Communications Sociales, Belgium (Exchange Program) (Outgoing Program) Featured Print 
  • Locations: Brussels, Belgium
  • Program Terms: Fall, Spring, Year
Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring 2027 10/16/2026 10/20/2026 TBA TBA
Program Description:
Eligibility VISA Study Period Language of Instruction Type of Housing Approximate
semester dates		 CU partner since
Cost of Living
Open to Commonwealth University and external students; Minimum GPA 2.7

Yes		 Fall and/or Spring English
(see majors available below)		 Off-campus apartments, rooms, homestays Early September-January
February-June		 2015
housing between €700-€800 monthly
 
BELGIUM
IHECS – Institut Des Hautes Etudes Des Communications Sociales
http://www.ihecs.be/   


The Location
The Institute for the Higher Study of Social Communication is located in the center of Brussels, the capital of Belgium. The city is home to over 1.2 million people, making it the largest urban area in the country. While the main language is French, since its independence in 1830, the city is multilingual, with Dutch serving as its second language. Architecture within the city is highly diverse. Over 80 museums exist ranging from the medieval structure of the Grand Palace to the postmodern European Union buildings. Brussels provides students with a variety of recreational, educational, and social activities.

The University
In 1965, Maxime Andrew Rossion established IHECS in the city of Tournai, and initially named it the “Temporary School of Assistants to Information”. Due to increasing popularity and attendance, Minister Jean-Louis Thys relocated the Institute to the city of Brussels in 1990. The recognized and qualified faculties at IHECS are highly involved and continuously provide students with the tools needed to succeed. Resources such as high-performance computer systems and advanced technological devices are available in order to successfully educate individuals interested in communications and language.

Academics
IHECS offers courses in French and English languages. Students can study French language and communication studies. Other social science courses taught in English are available in the subjects of Global Communications, Multimedia, Language, Public Relations, Cultural Studies, Photography, and Video and Television Production.

Housing
IHECS is not a residential campus; however, the International Exchange Office assists students with finding accommodations (shared apartments, rooms, and homestays*) near the campus. All exchange students receive information on their housing arrangements before their arrival in Brussels.

Air Travel
Students are responsible for making their own travel arrangements. Please see the Center for Global Engagement for assistance. 

Tuition
Commonwealth University students continue to pay CU tuition and fees while attending IHECS.  Keep in mind that all financial aid can apply toward your study in Belgium since you are participating in a CU sponsored program. Students do not pay any tuition or fees in Belgium. Please note, however, that it will be necessary to pay for activities such as athletic club memberships, if you wish to utilize those services.

Academic Calendar
  • Full English Program:
  • Welcome Session: first week of September
  • French Immersion week: second week of September (€ 90 fee)
  • Beginning of Courses: Mid-September/ Beginning of February
  • Ending of Courses: Late December/Late June

Health Insurance
All students are required to maintain a health insurance policy that will provide coverage while abroad. Information on international health insurance providers can be obtained from the Center for Global Engagement. You may find that your present health insurance policy includes overseas coverage. It is important, however, that your carrier provide written verification of such coverage.

So, how do I get started?
Simply come by the Center for Global Engagement to pick up an application form. Remember! The deadline for application is March 1 for the fall term and October 1 for the spring term.


*Homestays are not guaranteed.