Stratford University launches International Study Program for students to study in Ireland

FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA – (July 2, 2012) – Stratford University made an important addition to its educational offerings with the launch of an International Study Program. Now students can continue their academic studies while gaining a global perspective from experiencing different cultures in Ireland. The study abroad program includes 9-weeks of residency (room and board) in the student housing at the Park Hotel, which is located in Virginia, County Cavan, Ireland.
 
The Park Hotel rests in its own private 100-acre estate in the picturesque town of Virginia. Built in 1750, the Park Hotel was originally the summer residence of the Marquis of Headfort. The Estate is situated on the banks of Lough Ramor adjacent to a nature preserve. Only 40 minutes from Dublin and just over an hour from Belfast, the hotel is perfectly situated for a study abroad experience.
 
Dr. Richard Shurtz, president of Stratford University, stated, “The study abroad program is designed to expose students to different perspectives, backgrounds, and cultures. We hope this experience will sharpen critical thinking skills and bolster self-confidence. This is central to Stratford’s overall educational objective of producing individuals who can solve problems systematically and confidently within the context of a global economy.”
 
While in Ireland, students must complete two courses online with local facilitators to augment the instruction. Culinary and hospitality students may be able to receive internship opportunities at the Park Hotel. Other internship opportunities may be available in the nearby town of Virginia.
 
“The international experience provides Stratford students the ability to gain real-world experience in their chosen field. Whether they are working in the Park Hotel kitchen, garden or front office, or within the local community, the students will have the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge they acquired in the classroom,” said Eric Frauwirth, campus dean of the Stratford University Baltimore campus. “Plus the international component enhances the students’ resumes for career placement.”
 
“This program is designed for students to learn new skills while gaining a global experience that will last a lifetime. Students will have the opportunity to further their education, and learn about Ireland’s culture and history by visiting magnificent historical and cultural sites,” said Graeme O’Toole, general manager of the Park Hotel.
 
To learn more about Stratford University’s International Study Program, visit http://www.stratford.edu/isp or email internationalscholar@stratford.edu .
 
Faculty and student housing is also available for other colleges and universities interested in developing a study abroad program at the Park Hotel in Ireland. Please contact gm@parkhotelvirginia.com for more information.
 
About Stratford University:
Stratford University six operates campuses in Virginia (Falls Church, Woodbridge, Richmond, and Newport News), Maryland (Baltimore), and India (New Delhi). The university offers 31 undergraduate and graduate degrees in the areas of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, Health Sciences, Nursing, Business Administration, and Information Technology. Many of the degree programs are offered both on campus, as well as online. For more information on Stratford University, please visit http://www.stratford.edu .
 
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*High-resolution photograph of the Park Hotel is available upon request- Email krjones@stratford.edu

Contact Information

Keith Jones

Marketing Specialist

Stratford University

(1) 410-752-4710 ext. 262

krjones@stratford.edu