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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

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Over the five-week summer programme, students will study at the University of Almería under the guidance of Spanish faculty and supported by Learn International’s on-the-ground team. The academic programme combines General/Molecular Biochemistry and Spanish for Healthcare, with structured laboratory practice, simulation-based learning, and clinical role-play. You will conduct experiments such as DNA extraction and enzyme assays, explore advanced biomedical techniques like robotic diagnostics, and participate in clinical simulations of conditions such as sepsis and hypoglycaemia while applying your Spanish in real-time.

Professional development is built into the curriculum. Students will attend guest lectures from biomedical researchers and healthcare practitioners, visit public health labs and environmental monitoring facilities, and gain an inside look at biomedical research centres. Spanish for Healthcare is taught at two levels to ensure students at all stages can practise patient intake, history-taking, and lab result explanations in Spanish, with advanced students tackling more complex clinical communication and ethical scenarios.

Cultural immersion is a core part of the experience. Beyond the classroom, students will explore Almería’s historic Alcazaba Fortress, enjoy excursions to Cabo de Gata–Níjar Natural Park, and take part in local traditions like tapas tours and flamenco performances. Optional weekend trips to Granada and the Alhambra provide further opportunities to connect Spain’s cultural heritage to its medical history. Together, these experiences deepen both scientific knowledge and intercultural competence while preparing students for the next steps in their medical or health careers.

Earn seven US academic credits while gaining hands-on lab and clinical experience, strengthening your Spanish for healthcare, and preparing for medical school with a global perspective.

HOUSING INFORMATION

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Students will live in shared residence-style apartments in or near Almería’s historic city centre. Bedrooms are shared, with separate single beds, and each apartment includes a kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom, and access to laundry facilities. Housing is located within a 10–20 minute walk or bus ride of the university. Meals are not included, but students will have opportunities to shop in local markets and cook their own meals, as well as sample Spain’s vibrant dining culture. The housing experience is designed to provide comfort, independence, and a strong sense of community, allowing students to immerse themselves in Spanish life.

COURSE

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General/Molecular Biochemistry (Biochemistry I) (4 US Credits)
This course introduces biomolecules, enzyme kinetics, and metabolic pathways, with a focus on applications to human health. Students will practise key laboratory techniques such as enzyme assays, protein analysis, DNA extraction, and gel electrophoresis, while connecting molecular processes to disease, nutrition, and therapeutics.

Spanish for Healthcare (3 US Credits)
Designed for two proficiency levels (beginner/intermediate and advanced), this course equips students with the language skills needed to interact with Spanish-speaking patients. Students will practise patient intake, history-taking, and explaining lab results, while advanced learners will tackle more complex conversations, ethical scenarios, and professional interactions. Role-play and clinical simulations ensure that students can confidently apply their Spanish in real-world healthcare contexts.

7 US Academic Credits
Official Transcript issued by the University of Wyoming included

COURSE TOPICS

• Laboratory Techniques & Biomedical Exposure – Practise protein assays, enzyme kinetics, DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and observe modern biomedical workflows such as robotic sample handling and automated diagnostics.
• Simulation Labs – Participate in clinical simulations of metabolic disorders, hypoglycaemia, and sepsis, integrating biochemistry and Spanish language skills.
• Clinical Communication & Cultural Competency – Role-play patient interviews, discharge instructions, and lab result explanations in Spanish while building intercultural awareness.
• Public Health & Biomedical Site Visits – Visit public health laboratories, environmental monitoring facilities, and biomedical research centres.