The Abbey, located in the heart of France in the beautiful city of Pontlevoy is the only semester abroad program at Midwestern State University.  Freshmen and Sophomore students seeking at least fifteen hours of core curriculum credit are housed in a completely renovated abbey  that dates back nearly 1,000 years.  Every student is exposed to an "honors level" course schedule that includes the very best faculty in a small group setting.  All classes are in English but "survival" French or French language for credit is available.  The spring term runs from the first week in February until the first week in May.  Each term is punctuated by a  week in Paris where students attend lectures,visit museums and art galleries and hear concerts.  This is followed by a ten day "break" where students are free to visit anywhere in Europe that their imagination allows.  

The village of Pontlevoy is in the heart of France and is near to the historic sites of Tour, Orleans, and the wine country of the Loire Valley.  Although Paris is only two hours by "bullet train" students are also connected to the larger world with full internet access and personal cell phones.  Local families have "adopted" each student and regularly invite them home for dinners and other special events.  Students at the Abbey participate in a variety of functions to aid local school children, coach local sport teams, or simply visit the constant stream of visitors who wish to explore and learn about their new neighbors.

Classes are filled with the excitment of a free give and take dialogue with their professors that extends before and after class.  Faculty live on the 20 acre grounds and constantly interact with all students.  Team teaching and individual tutoring are the norm and writing across the curriculum is encouraged(gazing out the windows at the beautifully manicured grounds during class is not). 

Dr. Howard Farrell, Vice-President for University Advancement, was a recent visitor to the Abbey to visit the current cohort of M.S.U. students studying during the fall term.  Students are linked to the university via e-mail and can keep up a constant understanding of what's going on in Wichita Falls and with their friends and family.

This most special academic program is designed for those students seeking the opportunity of a lifetime to study and learn in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.  For those students who qualify, scholarships and financial aid make this a very affordable program.  Applications are available in the office of International Education in Beawood #106 or call 397-4038.