Apply to Study Abroad

Country(s)

Scotland

Dates

July 31 - August 9, 2026

Registration Deadline

TBA

Courses

Non-Credit Program

Travel Cost

TBA

Scholarship

A limited number of scholarships are available. Scholarships will be a minimum of $700 based on the available funds. A minimum GPA requirement is 3.0! Scholarships are awarded on a first-first come first-served basis. The registration portal has a limited timeframe, we suggest you prepare your scholarship essay before starting the application! They are due together. Click here to see the scholarship prompts.

Program Director(s)

Prof. Christopher Pudlinski
Communication
860.832.2701
pudlinskic@ccsu.edu

Prof. Christa Sterling
Professional Education
860.832.2277
csterling@ccsu.edu

Prof. Zongxiang Mei
Global Engagement
860. 832.2043
zongxiang.mei@ccsu.edu

Contact Information
Zongxiang Mei
Global Engagement at Central
Seth Voytek
Global Engagement at Central
Henry Barnard Hall
418

Edinburgh Festival Experience: Behind the Scenes at the World’s Largest Arts Festival (Non-Credit Program)

Immerse yourself in a transformative 10-day cultural and educational journey during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a global stage showcasing a diverse array of theatrical performances, literary discussions, and artistic exhibitions. Participants engage in intellectual exchange through workshops, lectures, and interactive sessions that enrich academic understanding, and enjoy the natural, cultural and historical explorations in Edinburgh.

The program is:

  • Ideal for students and community participants who are passionate about Scotland and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe but prefer a non-credit summer experience.
  • Designed for lifelong learners seeking to enjoy the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with an educational focus, led by Central professors and staff, in collaboration with Queen Margaret University (QMU).
  • Fringe Festival immersion: Attend multiple performances across diverse venues, from traditional theaters to unconventional spaces.
  • Cultural and historical explorations:
    • Walk the Royal Mile and tour Edinburgh Castle.
    • Enjoy a scenic Maid of the Forth boat trip.
    • Take guided tours of Calton Hill and The Real Mary King’s Close, exploring how history and heritage shape modern events.
    • Embark on a full-day excursion to Loch Ness and the Highlands, gaining insights into Scotland’s tourism industry and its link to large-scale events.
  • Exclusive guest lectures from Queen Margaret University faculty, covering topics such as festival management, sustainability, and history.
  • Comfortable accommodations at QMU dormitories, where each participant has a private single room while enjoying shared living spaces with flat mates.

This program provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the world’s largest arts festival

while gaining real-world insights into event management, arts administration, and cultural tourism.