Course Description

The Walt Disney Company is the world’s biggest media corporation. In 2012, its revenues were $40.8 billion and its profits $4.9 billion with over 560 million viewers watching the Disney Channel worldwide. This course will examine the centrality of Walt Disney to the development of American media culture and its global spread. The Walt Disney World Resort will form the basis for our exploration of how the Disney Doctrine became the centerpiece of the American way of life and how this Doctrine has been maintained, altered or expanded upon during the years following the Walt Disney family’s control of the company.

A particular focus of this seminar will be on the Disney theme parks that remain a centerpiece of the Disney brand. This class includes a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort with behind the scene tours of various attractions. Students will be provided with the opportunity to develop an independent research project that through the analysis of a specific attraction in the park will learn the methodological tools necessary for cultural analysis.

Travel Study Costs and Fees

Program Fee: $927*

If you are admitted to the course, you will receive an email asking you to accept or decline the spot. To accept your spot, you are required to fill out the commitment deposit form and submit a $500 non-refundable deposit within 48 hours. For more information about payment policies and procedures, view the Travel Study Payment Policy.

Included:

• In-country transportation
• Student housing accommodations
• Cultural activities and excursions arranged by the lead instructor

Not Included:

• College tuition and fees**, see UVM Student Financial Services
• Airfare, estimated cost $380
• Cancel for any reason flight insurance (strongly encouraged)
• Baggage fees
• Meals, estimated cost $240
• Vaccinations and any associated costs
• Passport fees
• Personal and entertainment expenses
• Optional excursions
• Anything not specified as included in the program

*Trip cost subject to change due to unanticipated changes.

**Travel Study courses are regarded as normal UVM courses and as such, normal tuition and fees apply.