The School of Communication offers a range of global seminar programs that provide students with immersive experiences in media, communications, and theatre industries. These programs combine classroom learning with international travel, allowing students to engage with professionals, explore different cultures, and gain practical insights into their fields of study. While the current offerings focus on media and theatre, additional seminars may be introduced in the future, expanding opportunities for students in various communication-related fields.
Each seminar consists of two connected components: an academic course held on Northwestern’s Evanston campus, followed by a trip abroad. The classroom portion introduces students to key concepts and industry dynamics, preparing them for the hands-on experiences they will encounter during their travels. While abroad, students visit key sites, meet with industry experts, and participate in activities that enhance their understanding of global media or theatre.
Global Media & Communications Seminar (GMCS)
The Global Media & Communications Seminar (GMCS), offered in cooperation with the London School of Economics (LSE) Department of Media & Communications, will take place in 2025. This program combines lectures in Evanston and London with site visits to expose students to the global media and communications industries. Open to School of Communication undergraduate majors, the GMCS Seminar is led by Dean Lori Barcliff Baptista and consists of a winter quarter course (CMN 350-0) followed by a trip to London from March 21–28, 2025. In the classroom, students will explore the structure and dynamics of global media. Over Spring Break, participants will visit London, where they’ll engage with prominent industry professionals, tour media organizations, and immerse themselves in the city’s cultural landscape.
Learn more about the application process for GMCS 2025
Prague Quadrennial (PQ) Seminar
The Prague Quadrennial (PQ) Seminar is led by Professors Mary Zimmerman (performance studies) and Ana Kuzmanic (theatre) and takes place every four years. This seminar focuses on theatrical design and history, culminating in a trip to the Prague Quadrennial, one of the world’s most renowned theatre design festivals. Students first take a spring quarter course where they explore the intersection of theatre and design. Then, they travel to the Czech Republic to attend the festival, while also engaging with Prague’s rich theatrical history and culture. The next PQ Seminar is scheduled for 2027.
Additional seminars in related fields may be scheduled in future years, offering even more opportunities for students to engage with global industries and gain cross-cultural insights.
Learn more about previous trips here.