Description

The Liberal Arts study abroad program in Alicante, Spain is designed for students who have completed a minimum of five semesters of university-level language instruction in Spanish. Students interested in furthering their language skills, and in learning about Spain will find that this program provides an ideal option for students who seek a study abroad opportunity.

Academic Program
The Liberal Arts program is designed for students who have completed a minimum of five semesters of university-level language instruction in Spanish and achieved an advanced level of proficiency prior to participation. Students take a combination of CIEE courses designed specifically for advanced language students and regular University courses at the Universidad de Alicante (UA).

Academic Culture
Universidad de Alicante courses are lecture style. Teaching methods in the Spanish university system are different from those in the United States. Professors provide students with an extensive bibliography in the course syllabus, and it is expected that students make reference to these readings in their exams. It is the students' responsibility to demonstrate that they can intelligently analyze and discuss themes mentioned in class lectures, in addition to citing secondary sources and outside readings recommended by the professor.

The CIEE fall semester starts in late August and exams for CIEE courses take place the week before Christmas. The official Universidad de Alicante fall semester begins in early September and runs through mid-January with a two-week break for Christmas. The CIEE spring program begins in early January with final exams for CIEE courses given at the end of May. The official Universidad de Alicante pring semester begins in mid-January and uns through late May or early June. For fall courses early exams may be arranged but CIEE can neither facilitate nor guarantee this for all UA courses. For spring courses, it may be possible for some students to take early exams. Early exams are only be considered for students who have a solid academic reason for returning home early. Documentation is required before permission is granted.

All Liberal Art students must take at least one regular University course. In order to choose from the widest range of University courses, students must plan to stay until the official end of the University semester. Those students who choose to depart before the regular University session ends will have a limited selection of University courses.

CIEE courses are scheduled Monday through Thursday. Teaching methods in CIEE courses are a combination of lecture and interactive styles. Attendance is mandatory and absences affect final grades. It is important to understand that the program takes place at a Spanish University with native Spanish instructors, 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.

Highlights

• Advance your Spanish language skills while living in a beautiful Mediterranean coastal city
  
• Become a member of a Spanish family or live in the dorms with peers
  
• Join a customized Language Commitment Program (QUIJOTES), a Conversational Exchange program: Intercambios, and the International Club
  
• Enroll directly in Universidad de Alicante courses alongside local Spanish students
  
• Participate in extracurricular activities and excursions in the Alicante province and Spain; visits to museums, sporting events, and theaters

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 students is an integral part of the language 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. The Intercambio sessions are organized with the collaboration of the School of Education at the Universidad de Alicante.

International Club
The Universidad de Alicante sponsors an International Club which organizes a range of activities, including optional excursions at affordable rates, to help students get involved in the local community and meet Spanish peers. Students enroll in such non-credit courses such as cooking, horseback riding, sailing, hiking, flamenco, salsa, and theater.

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 field trips, day excursions, and other local events. Spanish Helpers introduce CIEE students to the local culture, 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
• Minimum of 5 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays
• Dormitory

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
• Written Application
• Transcript
• 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