Description

The summer Language and Culture study abroad program in Palma de Mallorca, Spain is designed for students just beginning to learn Spanish, for those wishing to further develop their language skills, of for those interested in studying the history, culture, literature, economy, and environment of contemporary Spain with a special focus on the Mediterranean region. The program gives students daily interaction in Palma's academic and social cultures through homestays, class-related excursions, and activities with Spanish students.

Academic Program
Established in 2006, the CIEE Study Center at the Universitat de les Illes Balears provides an academic summer program for students interested in tourism studies, environmental studies, Spanish literature, Spanish contemporary history, and/or Spanish Mediterranean culture. Participants also have the opportunity to develop or improve their Spanish language skills, while learning about Spain through living in Palma. CIEE courses include a substantial interactive and practical component. Learning by doing is promoted with field study activities outside the classroom.

Academic Culture
Classes are held at Sa Riera, a University building located right in the center of Palma. Class sizes are small, and all professors in the CIEE Language and Culture summer program are accustomed to teaching U.S. students. The program comprises two sessions; students may choose to participate in one or both. Courses meet every morning or afternoon for three hours from Monday through Friday, with occasional outings. CIEE courses combine lectures, readings, films, active participation and group discussion, class-related visits and study trips, and laboratory analysis. Attendance is mandatory and absences affect final grades. CIEE classes provide a detailed syllabus, and students are expected to be prepared for class.

While extracurricular activities and personal travel contribute to the student's overall study abroad experience, attendance in class is paramount. Any extended travel should take place prior to the start of the program or upon completion of the program.

Highlights

• Study Spanish while living in the city of Palma de Mallorca; all levels offered
  
• Take classes which include visits to sites of socioeconomic, natural, and cultural importance related to tourism, the marine environment, the history and traditions of the Mediterranean, and contemporary history, culture and literature of Spain
  
• Become immersed in Spanish culture through a homestay, the inclusion of Spanish university students in CIEE activities, and language exchange partners

CIEE also organizes cultural activities designed to bring American and Spanish UIB students together. These include conversation exchanges with Spanish students, a Spanish cooking class, game and tapas nights, opportunities to attend movies or the theater, beach picnics, visits to flea markets, and participating in traditional celebrations around the island.

Field Study
Field visits are organized to complement the student's academic studies. They may include prehistoric sites, historic villages, coastal shores from sandy to bottom ecosystems, maritime natural parks, an aquarium and a research fishery, monuments and museums, traditional fairs and markets, areas of mass tourism and over-development on Mallorca, rural ecotourist sites, social agencies working with immigrants, environmental and governmental agencies, a fair trade organization, a traditional 17th century farm estate, the old quarter where Jewish, Muslim and Christian coexisted in the Middle Ages, Porto Pi maritime museum hosted in 14th century Lighthouse, and some of the trails wandered by the writers who traveled to Mallorca in the 19th century.

Immersion
Guardian Angels
Guardian Angels are local University students who accompany CIEE students on group activities and participate in field trips and other events. Guardian Angels introduce CIEE students to the University and to the culture of Palma.

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

*Students placed in homestays will receive breakfast and dinner during the week and some weekends.

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 2.75
• For CIEE content courses in Spanish and the internship, 4 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

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