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Description

The Language and Culture program strives for total cultural and language immersion. This is accomplished by providing students the opportunity to participate in an intensive language program before the semester begins and two semester-long Spanish language courses. Students also study and analyze Peruvian culture by taking two CIEE courses on contemporary Peruvian social reality and the ancient civilizations and historical events that have shaped Peruvian society. Careful selection of host families, cultural excursions, and volunteer opportunities also contribute to the students' total immersion in local life here in Lima.

Academic Program
The Language and Culture program began in 2007. Designed for students who have had two to four semesters of college-level Spanish or the equivalent, the program provides an outstanding opportunity for participants to focus on Spanish language acquisition. In addition to Spanish language courses, students explore the nuances of Peruvian culture, history, and society, including issues of mestizaje, ethnic identity, politics, globalization, and development through English-taught CIEE courses.

Academic Culture
All classes are taught by PUCP professors. Both the Spanish language and English- taught content courses are small in size, with five to 12 students in the language classes and 10 to 25 in the content courses. The classes encourage participation and active student engagement. Relationships with professors are respectful, but casual. Professors occasionally lecture, but prefer open discussions in which students voice opinions and ask questions. Participants do not directly enroll at the PUCP.

The first semester of the Peruvian academic year in Lima begins in late February and ends in early July, and the second semester begins in late July and ends in early December.

Highlights

• Intensive, two-week Spanish language course prior to the regular semester
  
• Two semester-long Spanish language courses; and courses on Peruvian history, culture, and society, taught in English
  
• Peruvian homestay
  
• Extended field trip outside of Lima to a cultural and historical heritage site, such as Machu Picchu; visits to museums, theaters, and galleries; and excursions to such places as Lunahuana, a town located in a river valley.

In addition, there is a longer field trip to give students the opportunity to explore the history and culture of Peru through lectures and tours by locals. This usually includes excursions to Cuzco and Machu Picchu. Other shorter excursions may include a visit to the archaeological city of Pachacamac and to Lunahuana, a town in a river valley known for its natural beauty.

Community service and volunteer opportunities are available for interested students. Previous CIEE students have worked with NGOs in the areas of women's health, Afro-Peruvian human rights, education, and rehabilitation.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Anthropology
• History
• Latin American Studies
• Sociology
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing

Cost Include Description:

The CIEE fees for 2010-11 include tuition, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full time leadership and support, housing, all meals (at homestay), orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, a longer trip to a site of cultural importance (such as such as Machu Picchu), pre-departure advising, comprehensive student handbook, 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
• Spanish language course within the past year recommended

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays
• Independent living

Participants Travel to Peru

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Scholarships are Available

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

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Transcript
• Written Application

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