Description

If you are ready to undertake the challenge of studying within the Universitat de Barcelona alongside Spanish students in their degree program; if you have had at least three years of college-level Spanish language studies; if you have an overall GPA of 3.0 and a strong desire to participate in the Spanish university system as Spaniards do - then the Advanced Liberal Arts study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain is right for you.

Academic Program
The Advanced Liberal Arts program in Barcelona, which began in the fall of 2005, is designed for independent-minded students with advanced language skills interested in enrolling in regular University classes in a diverse range of subjects. At the beginning of the program, students take an intensive Spanish language course designed to prepare them for classes at the Universitat de Barcelona (UB). During this time, students also meet individually with the Resident Director to select their courses at the University.

Academic Culture
The CIEE Study Center is located in a historic building located in Passatge Permanyer, a historic passageway near Plaza Catalunya, Barcelona's main square. UB's departments of Modern Languages and Literatures, Geography, History, History of Art, and Philosophy are also located downtown at University Plaza, within walking distance from the CIEE Study Center. Other UB departments are located in the Pedralbes section of Barcelona in the Northwest part of the city, about a 20-minute metro ride from the CIEE Study Center. UB classrooms range from traditional to modern and may have up to 100 students in a class. CIEE classes are small, with no more than 12 students in a class.

CIEE courses are similar to U.S courses in that attendance is carefully monitored, and the student's active contribution to class is an important part of the grade. Tardiness and unexcused absences are not allowed and lead to a lower grade. Students can expect daily readings, regular homework, a midterm exam, a final exam, and a final project or paper.

UB classes are taught in the Spanish academic tradition, which involves more independent work on the part of the student. Typically, the syllabus includes an outline of the themes and a list of recommended readings. There is usually no precise calendar. In many classes, the professor gives a final exam, but often allows a student the option of writing a research paper as part of the final grade or in place of the final exam. It is perfectly normal for Spanish students to share notes with one another and to work together to prepare for the final exam. This is an excellent way for U.S. students to meet Spaniards and practice the language.

The fall semester program begins in late August and ends in late December to early or mid-January.

The spring semester program begins in mid-January and ends in late May to early June. It is possible but not guaranteed that exams for regular UB classes can be taken in December or May. Although extracurricular activities and personal travel contribute to the student's overall experience, early departure for or late return from vacation is not allowed. Any extended travel should take place prior to the start of the program, during vacation periods, or upon completion of the program.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in Spanish academic culture by enrolling in regular University classes in a wide range of disciplines, from Spanish language and literature to geography, international relations, and political science
  
• Participate in cultural and educational activities, including lectures and visits to museums; explore Barcelona, Catalonia, and Spain through excursions
  
• Enjoy trips through the city with CIEE Guardian Angels, who help you feel at home; receive help from tutors; take non-credit classes in Spanish cooking

Other cultural activities include those designed to bring American and Spanish students together, such as conversation exchanges with UB Spanish students. CIEE also organizes non-credit Spanish cooking classes in which students are invited to participate. Volunteer opportunities can be arranged by CIEE staff through UB's volunteer program Solidaritat UB.

Language Activities
A program of language activities has been developed to enhance the student's language learning and cultural immersion. These activities may include language exchange events, where American students meet Spanish students to speak both English and Spanish, and exchange contact information to continue meeting during the semester; lectures; films; discussion groups; and neighborhood tours. Students participate actively, speaking Spanish at all times. Past activities have included a lecture on art of the Spanish Civil War, a tour of Barcelona's Jewish neighborhood, and a Spanish movie viewing, followed by a student-led debate.

Guardian Angels
Guardian Angels are local university students who accompany CIEE students on group activities and also participate in field trips and other events. Guardian Angels are like Spanish brothers and sisters, helping students make friends at the University, introducing them to the city's culture, and generally helping them adapt to life in Barcelona. The Guardian Angels Program is a unique feature found at the CIEE Study Center in Barcelona.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing.

Program Fees Include:

The CIEE fee includes an optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, tuition, housing, two meals per day in the homestay option, orientation, organized cultural activities, local excursions, field trips, pre-departure advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.

*No meals are included for students in the Residencia option.

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 3.0
• 6 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays
• Apartment/Flat

Participants Travel

Independently

Scholarships are Available

We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application
• Other

CIEE's Mission Statement

Since 1947, the Council on International Educational Exchange, known as CIEE, has been in pursuit of its mission, "to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge, and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. Our services to young people studying, working, teaching, and traveling abroad are more important than ever.

Year Founded

1947