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Liberal Arts, Language and Social Change in Mexico

by: CGEE

4.67 (3)VerifiedSince 1982

In this experiential, community-based program, students are immersed in various Mexican realities by meeting directly with people of diverse backgrounds, gaining essential skills for future academic and professional pursuits. This is an excellent program for those who need to meet General Education Requirements! A wide variety of courses offered includes a Biology course, fine arts, Spanish language, humanities, and social sciences. Based in Cuernavaca, Mexico, the program includes regional travel, homestay with local Mexican families, internships, and small group intensive Spanish study. CGEE programs are highly experiential by design. We like to get you out of the classroom and into the community! Our classes include guest speakers, trips to visit local groups, museums, businesses, and more. We also include fun excursions in the area to help you learn even more about the history, culture, and region!

Program Highlights

Enhance your Spanish language skills during small, focused Spanish language classes taught by native speakers

Engage with the community through home stays with local host families and (optional) internships

Choose a program and organization that is committed to social change and justice

Explore the variety of cultures, peoples, and history of Mexico with included excursions

Study the contemporary social issues facing Mexico and learn from the groups working for change

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Cuernavaca, Mexico
Availability
Year(s) Offered: 2026, 2027, 2028Terms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Art & Fine Arts
  • Arts
  • Biology
  • Feminist, Gender, & Sexuality Studies
  • Foreign Language
  • History
  • Human Rights Advocacy
  • Humanities
  • Independent Study
  • Latin American Studies
  • Liberal Arts
  • Political Science & Politics
  • Spanish
  • Women's Studies
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.67

Total Reviews

3

I wouldn't trade it for the world.

August 12, 2026by: Acacia Seeling - United States
5

It is hard to write a short review for my time in Mexico because of how big of an experience it was-- not only because of how much I learned from professors and community members alike, but also from the sheer amount of fun and changes in perspective I was able to have in the short 4 months. Before I left for this study abroad experience I was terrified; I didn't know the language, or anyone else who was going, I had no frame of reference for what it was going to be like, and I was afraid that I would be so out of my comfort zone that I wouldn't have any fun. However, I felt right at home within the space that the professors and staff of Augsburg have worked so hard to create in order to make every student feel safe and welcome. There is a great emphasis on community and care for one another which can be felt through every aspect of this experience. Of course it was challenging at times, but the challenges were incredibly rewarding and allowed me to learn more about myself, others, and the world than I ever could have hoped (along with the help of my peers, who are now life long friends). I feel so lucky to have been a part of this program and hope that more students will take the leap and allow themselves to be cared for, inspired, and taught by everyone who works hard to make this such a special opportunity.

Liberal Arts, Language & Social Change in Mexico, Fall 2018

December 29, 2018by: Shonakiki - United States
5

This experience was really good. Having all my courses in Spanish and learning so much about Mexican history and a bit about how it interrelates to other Latin American countries' history as well as to the U.S. was really important. It was amazing to get to talk to so many community members, organizers, teachers, activists, and more to learn first hand what they saw and experienced as Mexico. Language wise I thought it was going to be a more immersive program, and I was still able to improve my Spanish greatly and learn a ton about different Mexican cultures.

Study abroad in Mexico

November 30, 2018by: Studier334 - United States
4

I overall had a wonderful experience in Mexico. I would definitely recommend this program to other students. The staff is very friendly and nice. The host families are awesome! overall great. Plus the food is amazing.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Cuernavaca, Mexico

Types and Subjects

  • Subjects & Courses
  • Art & Fine Arts
  • Arts
  • Biology
  • Feminist, Gender, & Sexuality Studies
  • Foreign Language
  • History
  • Human Rights Advocacy
  • Humanities
  • Independent Study
  • Latin American Studies
  • Liberal Arts
  • Political Science & Politics
  • Spanish
  • Women's Studies

Availability

Years Offered: 2026, 2027, 2028

Terms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Wifi Costs
  • Medical / Accident Insurance
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • In-Country Transportation To & From Project
  • Public Transportation Pass
  • Visa Fees
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Course Materials
  • Academic Credit
  • Emergency Support
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor’s degree

Application Procedures

  • Other
  • Transcript
  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to speak Spanish for this program?

No! We welcome all levels of Spanish ability - including those that have never taken Spanish. Your coursework is in English and we will provide translation during any class speakers. For bilingual or advanced Spanish speaking students, more options are available including internships, advanced Spanish language options, and a “Spanish for Heritage Speakers” course for those that grew up speaking Spanish but have not taken formal classes. 

Can I mix and match courses from different disciplines?

Yes! We have a wide variety of courses available at our Cuernavaca location, and you may choose from any track (Migration Studies, Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, Liberal Arts, or Spanish). Communication/New Media/Film Studies is also offered in the fall semester. 

What is the host family stay like?

Many students report that their Host Family is an absolute highlight of their experience abroad. Typically, one student will be placed per home to maximize opportunities for cultural immersion. You will most likely be housed with families in the same neighborhoods as at least one or two other students nearby. Many of our host families have been with us for years and are warm and welcoming! We also have LGBT+-friendly families. 

What is a typical day on this program?

No two days are exactly alike, but your time will be packed with learning and adventure. Most days you will be learning alongside your cohort of peers from the U.S., on excursions to local organizations, visits from guest speakers, and many other hands-on activities. With free time to explore Cuernavaca on evenings and weekends.

CGEE

CGEE

4.67Verified

Ready to Learn More?

In this experiential, community-based program, students are immersed in various Mexican realities by meeting directly with people of diverse backgrounds, gaining essential skills for future academic and professional pursuits. This is an excellent program for those who need to meet General Education Requirements! A wide variety of courses offered includes a Biology course, fine arts, Spanish language, humanities, and social sciences. Based in Cuernavaca, Mexico, the program includes regional travel, homestay with local Mexican families, internships, and small group intensive Spanish study. CGEE programs are highly experiential by design. We like to get you out of the classroom and into the community! Our classes include guest speakers, trips to visit local groups, museums, businesses, an...

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