Description

The Liberal Arts study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain is designed for students with 4 semesters of Spanish. Students who wish to learn about Spain and Europe through living in the unique and beautiful city of Barcelona will find that this program provides an ideal opportunity.

Academic Program
The Liberal Arts program is designed for students with four or more semesters of Spanish who are interested in significantly improving their language skills while taking classes in Spanish history, politics, literature, and culture, taught in Spanish.

Students complete an intensive Spanish language course that meets for the first few weeks of the semester, and then choose among advanced language electives for the remainder of the semester. In addition, students select courses from a range of regular, direct enrollment UPF courses with Spanish students; Hispanic and European Studies Program (HESP) courses taught in Spanish and specifically designed for American students; and an internship. All courses are taught in Spanish.

Academic Culture
CIEE courses and the internship seminar are held at the CIEE Study Center, which is located in a historic building in Passatge Permanyer, a historic passageway near Plaza Catalunya, Barcelona's main square. CIEE language courses typically have no more than 12 students in a class, and content courses rarely exceed 20 students. HESP courses, held at the UPF, are academically challenging, dynamic, and involve daily reading and homework assignments, as well as regular attendance at lectures. Class size does not exceed 35 students.

UPF classes may have up to 90 students in a class. Emphasis is on attendance at daily lectures and careful note taking. The syllabus is not as detailed as an American syllabus, and students are expected to decide for themselves which readings from the syllabus they need to study in order to fill in gaps missed during the lectures. With the recent introduction of the Bologna system, more emphasis is being placed on class participation and continued work during the term. There are usually final exams scheduled at the end of each term. UPF classrooms are modern, comfortable, and equipped with the most up-to-date technology used for instruction.

The fall semester begins in early September and ends just before Christmas. The spring semester begins in early January and runs through the end of April. 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

• Engage in Spanish culture through regular University courses designed for international students; advance your Spanish speaking skills; and gain professional work experience through an internship
  
• Participate in cultural and educational activities, as well as excursions to Girona, Tarragona, Seville, Córdoba, Granada, or Madrid, all led by expert guides
  
• Learn about the complex history of the European Union and Spain's role in it Tour the city with Guardian Angels who help you feel at home

Other cultural activities include those designed to bring American and Spanish students together, including conversation exchanges with Spanish students. Cultural activities include Spanish cooking class, flamenco shows, and movies. Although there are no formal community service activities on this program, volunteer opportunities can be arranged by CIEE staff.

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.

Language Activities
In order to reinforce their language learning, students are encouraged to participate in the Intercambio program. This is a program of language exchange with locals to help students improve their oral language skills. A program of language activities has been developed to enhance the student's language learning and cultural immersion.

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
* Junior standing or above
* 4 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