Wang Center for Global Education

England and France: Tudor England


Course Description:

Faculty Leader
Dr. Michael Halvorson, Associate Professor of History, 253-535-8258 or halvormj@plu.edu
Have you always wanted to travel to England and France?  In this history course you will explore the fascinating cities of London, Paris, Cambridge, and York.  Our primary subjects will be the politics, culture and religion of England during the Tudor monarchies.  You will visit the courts of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, explore major museums and cathedrals, watch a play in Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, experience French culture and cuisine, and complete team research projects in the British Library and the University of Cambridge.  Students will explore the many cultural and artistic connections between England and France during the Tudor age.

  • History 332 is a travel course that investigates political, cultural, and religious developments in early modern England during the years of the Tudor monarchies (1485 - 1603).
  • Central themes include the rapid economic development of England in the 16th century, religious crisis and reform, political consolidation and achievement, diplomatic relations with France and Spain, and the Elizabethan Renaissance.
  • Students in the course will read interesting books about Tudor England and visit world-renowned research facilities that offer unparalleled access to primary materials from the period, including the British Library and the University of Cambridge.
  • Daily meetings and walking tours are designed to build community and promote a team-approach to learning about (and participating in!) English and French cultures.
  • Course requirements include weekly journal assignments, daily meetings and walking tours, group readings, presentations in class, and an analytical research paper due at the end of the term.

Course Highlights: 

  • Investigate European History first-hand in England and France.
  • Explore famous castles, museums, churches, art collections, and historic towns and markets.
  • Guided walking tours of London, Hampton Court, Parisian winter markets, the Louvre, the medieval colleges of Cambridge, and more!
  • Complete your own research at the British Library and at the University of Cambridge.
  • Read fascinating texts including More's Utopia, Shakespeare's Henry V, Gregory's The Other Boleyn Girl, and archival materials in London and Cambridge.

Course Objectives:

  • Visit important sites of historical interest in London, Paris, Cambridge, and York.
  • Explore the richness of Tudor history and culture and discover how the era continues to shape our world today.
  • Work in teams and prepare group presentations analyzing important Tudor texts, artifacts, people, and institutions.
  • Grow as a writer and researcher; prepare and present analytical research papers based on key events in Tudor history.


Course Credit:

HIST 332 (4 credits).  Department credit.

Program Fee:

$5,295. Includes airfare, lodging, supplemental study abroad insurance, and program related transportation. PLU reserves the right to add a surcharge in response to unanticipated price increase.

These estimated additional costs indicated below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee.  Actual expenses may vary according to student interests, individual needs, and spending habits:

  • Passport (new) = $110 / Passport (renewal) = $135
  • Visa fees (required for some non-US passport holders) = varies
  • Pre-travel evaluation at the PLU Health Center = $45 *All students are required to visit either the PLU Health Center or a personal healthcare provider to achieve the proper medical clearance.  Be aware that other medical providers may charge additional fees that may result in a higher cost than the PLU Health Center.
  • Immunizations = $0 to several hundred dollars **Vaccination needs vary on destination and individual medical history, and may be costly.
  • Airline baggage fees = approximately $25 for each checked bag
  • Books, supplies, course materials = varies
  • Cell phone and cell usage = varies
  • Personal Expenses = approximately $600. Check with your faculty leader for an accurate estimate for your destination.

Application Deadline: 

April 13, 2012. A non-refundable deposit of $50 is required with the application. A $250 non-refundable program payment to confirm participation in the course is due within 10 days of notification of acceptance. Maximum of 18 students.