
The Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies Semester Program at the prestigious Universitat de Barcelona (UB) offers an exceptional opportunity for students to accelerate their Spanish language skills in one of the most dynamic cities in Europe. Whether you’re looking to improve your language proficiency, deepen your cultural understanding, or both, this program is designed to help you reach your goals in a supportive, immersive environment.
Tailored specifically for international students, the program allows you to take most of your courses in Spanish, while ensuring that they’re accessible to non-native speakers. By striking the perfect balance between challenge and comfort, it provides an ideal learning experience that encourages rapid language acquisition and cultural integration. You’ll be exposed to a variety of subjects, from Spanish Language to History, Art and Culture, all taught by experienced professors who specialize in these fields.
With its emphasis on practical language skills, cultural immersion, and academic rigor, the Spanish Language & Hispanic Studies program at UB offers a comprehensive and enriching study abroad experience that will stay with you long after the semester ends.
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1450, the Universitat de Barcelona (UB) is the oldest and largest university in Catalonia, with over 90,000 students. Classes are held at both the main historic campus in Barcelona's city center and a nearby Modernist building just a block away. In this program, students will take courses alongside other international students from around the globe.
The UB has long been a leader in international relations, hosting around 5,000 international students annually, making it one of the top European universities for global student enrollment.
The university offers an Estudios Hispanicos program, which provides courses exploring Spanish and Latin American culture from various perspectives. Students can choose from courses in both English and Spanish, covering topics like history, geography, art, literature, politics, and economics, all while delving into the local culture.
While students have the option to take classes in English, this program is particularly designed for those seeking deep immersion in the Spanish language. In addition to language classes, most elective courses at UB are available in Spanish, with levels tailored for non-native speakers. This makes the program especially appealing to students looking to advance their Spanish language skills.
REQUIREMENTS
Minimum G.P.A. Requirement
Class Requirement
Language Requirement
- Although helpful, no previous Spanish language knowledge is required.
Age Requirement
- All participants must be 18 years of age by the start date of the program.
If you have any questions about whether you meet the requirements, please contact us and we’d be happy to help you decide which Barcelona SAE program is right for you!
ACADEMICS
The Universitat de Barcelona (UB) and Barcelona SAE have worked hard to create a study abroad program that allows you to earn credits in your major, minor, or electives. The courses are especially designed for international students, meaning that you will be able to take courses in English and/or have the advantage of learning in Spanish at a pace for non-native or fluent speakers.
Accreditation
The Universitat de Barcelona (UB) is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree granting institution of higher learning. After completing a Barcelona SAE program at the UB, the transcript will be sent directly to the student’s home institution.
Course Approval
Before you go abroad, Barcelona SAE strongly recommends that you meet with your study abroad office and/or your academic advisor at your home institution, and are as transparent as possible about your plans. After your acceptance into the program, you will be required to submit an “Approval Contact for Study Abroad” form that will automatically inform your home institution of your intent to participate in a Barcelona SAE program. The earlier that you plan for your study abroad experience, the easier it will be to get your courses pre-approved and know exactly what transfer credit will be accepted at your home institution. Please remember that it is best to get multiple back up courses pre-approved, as this will give you some flexibility in setting up your class schedule or during the add/drop period. Think about courses that can work towards your major or minor, as well as courses that may fulfill your general education or elective requirements.
Course Options
Your courses will be taught in Spanish or English and will primarily be lectures with some teamwork involved. Students will be in class at the UB with other international students.
During a semester at UB, students can choose between two different options. Please visit our website for more information.
- Option One: 12 Credits – 110 Hour Spanish Language Class + Two Elective Courses
- Option Two: 15 Credits – 110 Hour Spanish Language Class + Three Elective Courses
Courses:
Please
click here to view the available courses for this program under the academics tab.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
The Hispanic Studies Semester Program at the UB Includes:
Countdown to Barcelona:
- Group Webinar and Pre-Departure Preparation
- Personalized Advising
While in Barcelona:
- UB Tuition and Fees
- Official University Transcript from the Universitat de Barcelona
- Bienvenid@s a Barcelona – Airport Welcome Service
- Logistical & Cultural Orientations
- Housing for the Duration of Program (Homestays include Breakfast/Dinner!)
- Comprehensive Medical & Accident Insurance
- 24-Hour Emergency Support
- English-Speaking Staff
Cultural & Social Activities:
- The Barcelona SAE Bucket List
- Day Trip(s) Outside of Barcelona - Exact # and Locations Dependent on Term
- Optional Weekend Excursion to Morocco (Additional Cost Applies)
- Weekly Cultural Agenda (The Local Perspective of What’s Happening Each Week!)
- Weekly Cultural Activities (Cooking Classes, Dance Lessons, Intercambios, Barrio Tours, and MORE!)
- Cultural Mentor Program
- Welcome Activity
- Re-Entry Workshop & Farewell Meal
For Continued Success After the Program:
- Alumni & Career Services
- Invitation to Barcelona SAE’s LinkedIn Alumni Group
- Opportunity to Apply to be a “Barcelona SAE Alumni Ambassador” on Your Home Campus
- Invitations to Study Abroad & Internship Returnee Conferences Throughout the U.S.
The Program Does Not Include:
- Round-Trip Airfare to/from Barcelona
- Visa Costs (If Applicable)
- Mobile Phones & Charges
- Local Transportation
- Personal Items
HOUSING
Barcelona SAE offers our students a variety of housing options, which means that we have the perfect place in Barcelona for you to call your home away from home. We have carefully selected safe and adequate housing for each student but each living arrangement is different.
Please click here for more information regarding our housing options.
APPLY NOW!
So…what are you waiting for? Apply Now and get ready to embark on the Barcelona experience of a lifetime!