CIEE Liberal Arts Program in Barcelona, Spain

  Spain

• Barcelona: 
Barcelona

Term: Academic Year, Fall, Spring 
Dates: Fall: 16 weeks: early September-mid-December; Spring: 16 weeks: early January-late April; AY: 31 weeks: early September-late April

Description: The Liberal Arts program is designed to help advanced-level Spanish language students develop their language skills and competency, while studying Spanish history, literature, politics, and culture. Courses in Hispanic Studies at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) focus on the emerging EU to help students learn about its complex history, its future, and Spain's role in it. Through University courses, students not only learn about language, history, and culture, but they also learn to see the world from a different perspective.

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 international students; and an internship. All courses are taught in Spanish.

Academic Culture
CIEE language classes and the internship are held at the CIEE Study Center, which is located in a historic building located in Passatge Permanyer, a historic passageway, and near Plaza Catalunya, Barcelona's main square. HESP courses 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. CIEE language courses have no more than 12 students in a class, and content courses rarely exceed 20 students.

Regular UPF classes may have up to 80 students in a class and emphasis is on attendance at daily lectures and careful note taking. The syllabus is not as detailed as American syllabi, and students are expected to decide for themselves which readings from the syllabus they need to study to fill in gaps missed during the lectures. It is common to share notes with Spanish students and study together, which can benefit students in their language learning as well. Relatively less emphasis is placed on participation and much greater emphasis on the final exam. 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:

• Immerse yourself in Spanish academic culture through regular University courses; 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, Besalú, Empúries, Tarragona, Madrid, and the Pyreneesall led by expert guides
  
• Learn about the complex history of the European Union
  
• CIEE Guardian Angels guide you through the city and help you feel at home

Other cultural activities include those designed to bring American and Spanish students together, including conversation exchanges with Spanish students. CIEE also organizes non-credit Spanish cooking classes. 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 students who accompany CIEE students on group activities and also participate in field trips and other events. Guardian Angels are like big 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. These weekly activities may include lectures, films, discussion groups, and neighborhood tours. Students participate actively, speaking Spanish at all times. Past activities have included a lecture on art of the Spanish Civil War, a tour of Barcelonas Jewish neighborhood, and a Spanish movie viewing, followed by a student-led debate.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing

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.

Participants Travel to Spain Independently

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. As we look ahead, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles and values that guide this mission statement.

Year Founded: 1947