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Aquincum Institute of Technology (AIT) Computer Science & Software Engineering Program (Outgoing Program)

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Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Language of instruction: English, Hungarian Housing options: Apartment
Areas of study: Computer Science, Culture, History, Hungarian Class standing: 1 - Second Semester Sophomore, 2 - Junior, 3 - First Semester Senior
Program type: Stand alone GPA: 3.0
Program Description:
aitBudapest is the vibrant capital of Hungary and a very attractive study abroad destination for U.S. students. The city straddles both sides of the Danube, with flat Pest on one side and hilly Buda on the other. It is a culturally rich city--full of music, cafes, striking architecture, museums, and an active street life. Exploring the city (most of which is walkable) is most enjoyable. 

The Aquincum Institute of Technology (AIT) was established in 2007 and remains a unique program in the world of study abroad. AIT is designed for Computer Science and Software Engineering Majors, and its faculty and staff are among the top scholars, designers, and teachers in Europe. Classes are small, and emphasize interactivity and creativity. 

The program is located outside of Budapest on a scenic bend of the Danube, in an industrial science park.  The visitor is struck by the impressive activity in the park, which hosts the Hungarian headquarters of Microsoft, SAP, Servier, Canon, Graphisoft, and a number of other high-tech R&D firms. The AIT center is modern, high-tech, and spacious. 

Academic Program
The program begins with a non-credit, two- week intensive Hungarian conversation language course prior to the start of the semester, as required by Pomona. The typical courseload during the semester consists of 16-20 AIT credits (4-5 Pomona credits). Students may enroll in a minimum of 12 AIT credits (3 Pomona credits) and a maximum of 24 AIT credits (6 Pomona credits). Students select courses from the course groups in 1) Foundational computer science, 2) Advanced applications, and/or 3) Creative design and entrepreneurship (0.5-1 Pomona credit each). In addition, students must enroll in a Hungarian language course for the full semester (1 Pomona credit) and one elective in Hungarian culture (0.5-1 Pomona credit). All subject courses are taught in English by Hungarian professors. All courses will appear on the Pomona transcript, and all courses will be calculated into the Pomona GPA. 

There is no CR/NC option on this program.

Pomona does not award credit for the IT Leadership and Entrepreneurship Studies course.


Living Arrangements
Two to five students will share a two-five bedroom apartment in the Budapest city center. Apartments are equipped with internet connection, linens, sheets, washing machine, and an equipped kitchen. A room, board, utilities, and local transportation allowance is provided by Pomona. Most landlords ask for a security deposit, to be returned at the end of the semester if there are no incidental damages. 

Number of Students
AIT enrolls approximately 60-80 students, selected from a national pool.

Host Institution
Aquincum Institute of Technology

Faculty Liaison
Eleanor Birrell

Eligibility
  • Computational and mathematical sophistication, to include: one programming course; exposure to concepts in data structures; and mathematical maturity developed through a college mathematics course beyond calculus (e.g., linear algebra, discrete mathematics, etc.). 
Student Experiences
Read about Cai Glencross's (PO'18) reflections on engaging with Hungarian language and culture.

Travel Advisories 

Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline (Pacific Time) Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring 2025 09/08/2024 10/04/2024 TBA TBA