Summer: Rutgers- Food and Mediterranean Culture
The Program
Through a combination of in-class lectures and experiential learning, students will gain a deep understanding of the historical, cultural and culinary aspects of food production and consumption in the Mediterranean region.
This course will provide in-depth knowledge and analysis of food production and consumption in the Mediterranean region using a food systems approach. Students will learn about the various components of the Mediterranean Diet pattern, its health, economic, social and environmental considerations and trade-offs, as well as how to measure its adherence.

Program Locations

Greece
Athens
This course will begin in the Greek capital of Athens before moving to the Peloponnese region of Greece, specifically the cities of Kalamata and Napflio. The Peloponnese peninsula is in southern Greece. The mild Mediterranean climate of the peninsula creates the perfect growing conditions for the produce that makes up the foundation of the Mediterranean diet.
Academics
By the completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify the historical, cultural and culinary aspects of food consumption within the Mediterranean region
- Describe the Mediterranean Diet model and its health and environmental implications
- Measure and critically analyze adherence to the Mediterranean Diet model
- Analyze the ways in which local food systems can better support the production and sale of food resources in accordance to a Mediterranean lifestyle
- Formulate strategies to promote a Mediterranean lifestyle in both Greece and the United States
Click here to read the syllabus for this course.
For information about Study Abroad credit transfer, registration, and transcripts please visit the Academics section of our website.
Housing and Meals
Students will be staying in hotels and local B&Bs throughout the two-week courses. During the week (on class days) students will be provided breakfast and lunch and will be responsible for their dinner. On weekends (non-class days) students will be provided breakfast and will need to provide their own lunch and dinner.
Financial Information
Program Costs
NJ Resident | non-NJ Resident | |
---|---|---|
Graduate | $6,150 | $7,410 |
Program Cost includes:
- Tuition
- Housing
- Some meals
- Excursions
- Administrative Fees
- International SOS Health Insurance
Out-of-Pocket Costs
Airfare | $1,200 |
Meals | $100 |
Books and Classroom Materials | $50 |
Personal Expenses | $100 |
Total | $1,450.00 |
Out-of-Pocket Cost includes:
The above costs are estimations and represent the known out-of-pocket costs students encounter during their time abroad.
Some of these expenses will be paid for prior to going abroad, such as an airline ticket, while some of these expenses, such as meals and personal expenses, will be paid in-country as part of your daily expenses. As you plan, you will need to budget these costs and spend wisely throughout your time abroad.