Ages 14-18
July 7-20, 2025
American University of Beirut Campus
Early bird registration extended! See details below.
Program Overview
The American University of Beirut’s Continuing Education Center (CEC), in collaboration with the Office of Alumni Relations and the Worldwide Alumni Association of the American University of Beirut (WAAAUB), hosts the SPAAC Summer Program to enhance participants' knowledge of Lebanese culture and expand their understanding of the modern Middle East while experiencing campus life at AUB.
The SPAAC Program is a rich and pleasurable educational experience, and a unique opportunity to enjoy the summer, make new friends, get a taste of college life, and explore Lebanon.
The summer program is open to bright and motivated students from around the world between the ages of 14 and 18. Participants’ stay on campus is facilitated and carefully supervised by our highly qualified staff. Participants will be accompanied by staff on all planned activities including on-campus activities and field trips to extraordinary historical sites throughout Lebanon.
Program Structure
Required Courses
Participants will take courses in Arabic language, history, and folk dance. Our curriculum is rich in social and cultural activities. Participants will also get the chance to explore the archaeology of Lebanon through field trips and museum visits. The language of instruction is English. Arabic will be used when appropriate.
All participants are required to take the following courses:
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Arabic Language and Culture for Beginners (8 hrs)
In this course, students will discover the beauty of the Arabic language and the rich tapestry of Lebanese culture. The course will cover the Arabic alphabet and pronunciation through essential everyday life topics, equipping students with the language necessary for basic communication in various contexts. It will also delve into the cultural nuances of Lebanon, exploring its traditions, customs, and historical landmarks. Through engaging activities such as listening to traditional songs, watching short movies, and participating in cultural discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of Lebanese culture and its significance in the Arab world.
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Intermediate Arabic Language and Culture (8 hrs)
This course is designed to elevate students' proficiency to an intermediate level while immersing them in the vibrant cultural landscape of Lebanon. Students will engage with everyday life topics essential for effective communication within the Lebanese community. Students will have the opportunity to explore Lebanese culture through the lens of music, cinema, and cultural presentations. By immersing themselves in authentic cultural artifacts, students will deepen their appreciation for Lebanese traditions, values, and societal norms.
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The Lead Historian: Inventions in the Middle East (8 hrs)
This course aims to give participants a historical journey within our region to discover important milestones and past figures. Historical inventions will be discussed from both historical and technical contexts.
This course introduces participants to Lebanese cultural roots through the Lebanese traditional dance "dabke." During this course, students will learn basic dabke steps which they will then be able to practice at Lebanese community gatherings and/or during other special occasions.
Elective Courses
Participants may choose to participate in one or two afternoon courses (Drawing, The Young Designer, Wellbeing Through Acting, Game Development, and Mobile App Development).
Students will learn how to execute a freehand drawing from observation. They will use a variety of media including graphite, charcoal, and ink to draw from still life and nature. Basic principles of composition, proportion, and perspective are stressed. This course will also cover the theory of color and the different types of color mediums and techniques.
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The Young Designer (8 hrs)
This is a fun and engaging course for creative minds to explore graphic design, product design, interior design, and architecture.
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Wellbeing Through Acting (8 hrs)
This course utilizes acting techniques and exercises that provide essential tools for participants' overall wellbeing and their development as stronger members of their communities, while helping them overcome the anxieties, insecurities, and expectations that they may be experiencing.
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Game Development (16 hrs)
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of programming through the exciting world of game development. They will experience hands-on learning as they create two-dimensional (2D) games using Gamemaker Studio 2, culminating in stand-alone executable games ready to be shared with friends and showcased in their digital portfolio.
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Mobile App Development (16 hrs)
This course provides students with an overview of the mobile app development environment, focusing on the fundamentals of programming in Java. It will cover Android App components and layouts and tackle views and user interactions. At the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills needed to develop their own Android App.
- Engineering Exploration Program (20 hrs)
This immersive program introduces high school students to the diverse disciplines of engineering through engaging, hands-on activities. Participants will explore fields such as electrical, mechanical, chemical, civil, and industrial engineering, gaining practical insights through lab visits, interactive workshops, and mini design challenges. The program culminates in group challenges and competitions that encourage collaboration, creativity, and real-world problem-solving, offering students a glimpse into university life and the future of innovation.
Other Activities
The SPAAC team will organize community engagement activities and a cooking session. SPAAC participants will also enjoy dinner outings to various places in Beirut.
Off-campus Excursions
One-day trips to significant historical and cultural destinations will ensure participants' exposure to the rich diversity Lebanon has to offer.
Among the field trips that may be organized are:
- Visits to archaeological and historical sites in Jbeil, Batroun, Beiteddine, Mousa Castle, and Jeita
- Hikes in the Cedars and Qadisha Valley
- A visit to a Lebanese beach
Meals and transportation on planned excursions are included in the program cost.
Program Fees
Option 1: Two weeks without accommodation: $2,700
Option 2: One week without accommodation: $1,550
Option 3: Two weeks with accommodation: $3,400
Option 4: One week with accommodation: $1,900
The program fee includes: tuition, medical insurance, gym access, meals, and program activities and trips for the full one- or two-week program.
Early bird registration has been extended to May 9, 2025! Don't miss the chance to benefit from a 10% early bird discount.