Description

The Language and Culture study abroad program in Alicante, Spain is designed for students at the intermediate level of Spanish language study. Students interested in furthering their language skills and in learning about Spain will find that this program provides an ideal option.

The Language and Culture program is designed to give intermediate-level students an opportunity to further develop their Spanish language skills. This is achieved through intensive language coursework and content courses in Spanish, a conversation exchange program, excursions, and homestays. The program allows participants to pursue studies in a variety of academic disciplines focusing on Spain and Europe in the target language.

Academic Program
Established in 1985, the Language and Culture program gives students the opportunity to take electives in Spanish, which are carefully designed to progressively advance their ability to understand and communicate concepts and ideas related to university-level academic work in such areas as art history, cinema, and literature.

The program is designed for students who have completed three to four semesters of university-level language instruction in Spanish and have achieved a low-intermediate level of proficiency prior to participation. Students who successfully complete the program can advance approximately two semesters to a level equivalent to high-intermediate or low-advanced, depending on their level upon entry, their effort and attitude, and the elective courses they choose.

Academic Culture
Students should expect to have classes Monday through Friday during the Intensive Cycle and Monday through Thursday during the regular semester. They can also expect daily homework assignments. Teaching methods combine lecture and interactive styles. Each professor distributes a detailed syllabus indicating what material is covered, when exams are held, and what is expected from each student. It is important to understand that the program takes place at a Spanish university with Spanish professors, and therefore students may notice differences in teaching styles.

Although extracurricular activities and personal travel contribute to the student's overall European experience, attendance in class is mandatory and absences affect final grades. Early departure for or late return from vacations is not allowed. Any extended travel should take place prior to the start of the program, during the semester break, or upon completion of the program. Travel plans should not be made before receiving the academic calendar on site.

Highlights

• Advance your Spanish skills while living in a beautiful Mediterranean coastal city
  
• Take courses on women's issues, art history, cinema, international relations, and literature
  
• Become a member of a Spanish family or live in the dorms with Spanish or international students
  
• Participate in day excursions and field trips related to academic coursework; visit museums, theaters, cultural sites, and other important Spanish cities
  
• Attend cultural events and join the International Club

Students have access to a wide variety of weekly activities organized by CIEE, as well as to those offered through the International Club, which is run by the International Relations Office at the Universidad de Alicante. These socio-cultural and sporting activities include guided tours to monuments and museums in Alicante, intramural activities, nature and hiking activities, cooking and dance classes, cinema, and theater. Although there are no formal community service activities, volunteer opportunities can be arranged by CIEE staff, and the City of Alicante Community Services Center offers volunteer options to those students interested in community service.

Immersion
Conversation Exchange Program
A conversation exchange program, Intercambios, with native Universidad de Alicante Spanish students is an integral part of the program. Intercambios provides students the real-world opportunity to practice what they've learned in the language courses and helps them integrate into Spanish student life.

International Club
For those students who want to make an extra effort in their Spanish language skills, the International Club offers the opportunity to practice Spanish, meet Spanish students, and learn more about Alicante and Spain. Club members hold regular meetings and sessions to explore the language, the culture, and the city in a fun and interactive way. All students have Spanish exchange partners and enjoy linguistic and cultural activities outside of class. Students in the club use Spanish only when communicating with other members and CIEE staff and faculty.

Cultural Events, Activities, and Cultural Week
CIEE provides opportunities to interact with University students through different cultural events and activities. In the past, these sessions have been related to sport activities, flamenco shows, and Spanish-English theater productions about life in Alicante, tours, excursions, and so on. These interactive and interdisciplinary sessions overlap with course content and are an integral part of the program. Students also have other cultural activities throughout the semester.

Cultural Week is an important part of the Language and Culture Program. For one week, all classes open the doors to all students in the program and offer workshops and activities so that students meet other professors and learn about different topics.

CIEE Spanish Helpers
CIEE Spanish Helpers are Universidad de Alicante students who guide CIEE students through orientation, organize and lead CIEE cultural activities, and participate in CIEE weekend fieldtrips, day excursions, and other local events, to help them make friends at the University and adapt to Alicante life.

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, all meals, orientation, cultural activities, excursions, field trips, pre-departure advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 2.75
• 3-4 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays
• Dormitory
• Group living

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