 A comparative analysis of housing policies and community development in the U.S. and the U.K.
England
3 or 6 undergraduate or graduate credits in Urban Planning
June 23 – July 6, 2008
Dr. Michela Zonta
$1,450 + airfare + VCU tuition
Registration deadline: Jan. 15, 2008 or until program is full.
Program description and application [PDF]
The Office of International Education and the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs are pleased to offer a unique opportunity for students to study how greater London has addressed the housing needs of the region in recent years. London is an excellent place to explore urban planning because there are strong similarities between the issuesfaced by local governments in the U.K. and those faced by U.S. cities. In particular, alack of quality affordable housing poses aserious challenge to both economic competitiveness and social equity inLondon and other cities. The number of homeless households intemporary accommodation has risen dramatically, while many essential workers have been priced out of town, impacting vital services such as health, transport, policing and education. This exciting study tour includes visits to London housing and community development organizations as well as trips to Birmingham, the LetchworthGarden City and Bristol.
 Course and credit options:
3 or 6 credits in URSP 391 or USRP 691
Course description: Students will explore the British approach to housing and community development and compare it with the American experience. During the program, participants will visit local housing planning agencies, speak with key public officials and policy analysts and record their own observations in the field. The tour also includes lectures and visits to local ethnic communities and non-profit organizations that address social cohesion in a city that, like many U.S. metropolitan areas, has traditionally attracted large numbers of immigrants. In particular, participants will learn how immigrant groups of different socio-economic and national origins adapt to London’s tight housing market.
During the two weeks prior to departure, students are required to attend two workshops led by the program director in Richmond. The workshops will provide a background on housing and community development in the U.S. Upon return from London, students will submit a paper based on their observations and on assigned readings.
2008 estimated program budget
 Program cost: $1,450 + airfare + applicable VCU tuition
The program fee is $1,450 and includes the following:
- Accommodations
- Breakfast
- Some group meals
- Study visits and tours
- Ground transportation
- On-site program director support
- Application fee and deposit
- Pre-departure orientation
- VCU administrative fees
- International student identification card
 The following are not included in the program fee. Students are responsible for:
- Airfare
- VCU tuition and fees
- Some meals
- Passport application fee
- Personal expenses during the program (estimated at $300-400)
- Anything not specifically mentioned above
Please budget for these additional expenses.
 Airfare: Airfare is not included. Participants are responsible for their own round-trip travel arrangements between the United States and London. Students are encouraged to speak with the program director regarding airfare options.
Eligibility: Participants must have a 2.5 GPA.
Registration deadline: Jan. 15, 2008. Applications will be accepted until the deadline or until participant space is full.
Activities and excursions: Excursions include trips to Birmingham, Bournville, Southall, the Letchworth Garden City, and Bristol; the British Airways London Eye; Toynbee Hall; the River Thames boat tour; Coin Street Community Builders.
 Program director: The program will be led by Dr. Michela Zonta of the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. Zonta teaches courses in the Urban and Regional Planning graduate program at VCU. She has extensive experience in U.S. housing policy and planning, immigration and the study of ethnic communities in the U.S. and Europe.
Every effort is made to provide updated and accurate information at the time of publication. The sponsors reserve the right to make necessary changes to the programs and costs.
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