CIEE Language and Society Program in Seville, Spain

  Spain

• Seville: 
Seville (Sevilla)

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: Fall: 15 weeks: early September-mid-December; Spring: 18 weeks: late January-mid-May

Description: The goal of the Language and Society program is to solidify the student's Spanish language skills while providing an understanding of Spanish literature, history, politics, art, and culture. This is achieved through intensive language and content coursework. All courses are taught in Spanish and are complemented with excursions and volunteer opportunities.

Academic Program
Established in 1985, the CIEE Language and Society program is geared to intermediate-level language students who want to see a marked improvement in their language skills while gaining an understanding of Spanish culture. Course work combines intensive language and content courses.

Online Placement Exam
Prior to departure for Seville, all students are required to take a CIEE online placement exam during the scheduled exam period: mid-November to mid-December for the spring semester and mid-May to mid-June for the fall semester. The purpose of this exam is to determine the student's level of Spanish so that he or she is placed in appropriate language courses. Students should take this exam seriously, as placement in many upper-level courses depends upon a high online placement exam score.

Academic Culture
Students take language courses at the CIEE Study Center. Content courses are held at the Facultades de Filología y Geografia e Historia, located 10 minutes from the CIEE Study Center. This location provides a wonderful opportunity for students to meet and become friends with Spanish students.

Having taught in the United States, many faculty members are familiar with the U.S. academic system. Teaching methods, of course, vary from teacher to teacher, and it is of great value for the students to be exposed to different styles. Students are able to use the library, computer facilities, and study rooms of the Facultades.

Students may also audit classes (non-credit) at the Facultad de Ciencias del Trabajo, located five minutes from the main Universidad de Sevilla campus. CIEE resident staff work with students to identify the best classes for them according to their academic interest. Students do not take exams in these classes. The Facultad de Ciencias del Trabajo is interdisciplinary in its curriculum, providing a selection of classes in contemporary Spanish economics, history, management, marketing, psychology, and sociology, as well as specific classes related to the field of labor relations. For more information on classes and syllabi, please consult the school's website. Students who regularly attend their audited class receive a CIEE certificate of academic achievement. This is an opportunity for participants to experience Spanish academic life first-hand and become integrated into Spanish student life.

During the fall semester, there is no extended vacation period. During the spring semester, two vacation periods take place: Semana Santa and Feria de Abril. Although the dates are not fixed, students are normally free the week before Easter (Holy Week) and then again for a week approximately two weeks after Easter.

Although extracurricular activities and personal travel contribute to the student's overall experience, attendance in class is mandatory and unexcused 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:

• Designed for Spanish majors and minors with an intermediate language level
  
• Extensive field trips and excursions, including a trip to Morocco as part of the course Advanced Language Skills and Conversation
  
• Writing center and tutorials, Tertulia lecture series, personal development workshops, a conversation exchange, student-run publication, and volunteer opportunities
  
• Homestay provides cultural and linguistic integration

Every week students receive an e-newsletter, Noticias desde Sevilla, via email. The e-newsletter, which is also posted on our website, announces happenings around Seville and the cultural activities CIEE has planned to complement academic work.

Trip to Morocco
Students enjoy a three-day trip to Morocco as part of the Advanced Language Skills and Conversation course, which focuses on issues related to the historical, cultural, religious, and economic ties between Spain and Morocco. Students put contemporary reality into an historical perspective during their visit. To prepare for this field trip, guest speakers discuss issues concerning emigration, the role of women, Al-Andalus music, and relations between Spain and Morocco.

Immersion
Intercambios
A conversation exchange program with native Spanish students is an important part of the program. Intercambios give students the chance to practice what they are learning in the language courses, as well as help them become more integrated into Spanish student life, and Sevillano life and culture.

Tertulia Series and Personal Development Workshops
Every semester, CIEE staff organize a series of informal lectures and workshops dedicated to personal development while living abroad. Workshops address a variety of themes such as culture shock, dating across cultures, eating well, stress management, organizational skills, and re-entry into the U.S. at the end of the semester.

Community Involvement
Students have the opportunity to work with children and the elderly, as well as other humanitarian associations. Students may also become involved in international organizations such as Amnesty International. Volunteer teaching opportunities in local schools are also available.

Student Publication, 6x1
Students in the Language and Society program have the opportunity to participate in the production of a student publication, 6x1 (seis por uno). It features a map of the city of Seville and six small articles about important cultural activities and events one should not miss while living in Seville. Language professors coordinate the work with student volunteers. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to participate in a fun and challenging project while in Seville. Students should not miss this opportunity to leave their legacy in Seville long after returning home.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

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

Experience Required: yes