Engineering
Summer 2024 July 6-Week 2 Course Barcelona

About the Program

Get ahead and stay ahead with your engineering coursework by studying in Barcelona. Become inspired by the famous architect, Antoni Gaudí whose engineering spirit led him to innovative uses of materials in constructing his design.  You’ll have the opportunity to enroll in an engineering and/or biology course, alongside elective courses. Elective courses range from Spanish language to Art History, which may fulfill a fine arts, social science or humanities requirement.  Regardless of your choice of course(s), you’ll find they all help you actively engage with the city, people, institutions, and culture of Barcelona.

Program Structure

Choose a 1- or 2-course option by selecting 1 or 2 STEM courses, or combine your 6-week STEM course with an elective during the July 4-week session. Courses meet for 45-60 contact hours/3-4 credits. If you choose the 1-course option, you may earn 3 credits (up to 45 contact hours); in the 2-course option, you may earn up to 7 credits (up to 105 contact hours).

Typically, classes meet daily, Monday-Thursday. Active learning components required by your courses may be scheduled for Fridays.

Prior to departure, you will select your preferred courses and take a language placement exam. You will be enrolled into courses based on their availability. It is in your best interest to have multiple alternative courses approved by your home university prior to your departure due to course availabilities. If you choose to take a Spanish language or elective course, to ensure that you receive credit for the language level you place into, have your home university pre-approve courses at several levels before you leave for Spain. Please consult with your academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.

Excursions

Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs*. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.

Girona & Besalú

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The charming walled town of Girona is one of Spain's most prosperous and enticing cities. Explore historical remnants of the diverse cultures that have influenced the city through the ages, walk along the steep alleyways of the Jewish quarter, visit one of many art museums, and enjoy beautiful views of the Onyar River. Nearby Besalú is a stunning medieval town designated as a historical national property. You’ll travel in time just by wandering its streets.

Madrid

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As Spain’s capital and largest cosmopolitan city, lively Madrid is known for its friendly locals and innovative art and culture. Visit the Prado Museum, which houses Spanish and European paintings from the 12th to 18th century, and view modern art at the acclaimed Reina Sofia National Art Centre. Stroll around Madrid’s most famous arcaded square, the Plaza Mayor. Visit the Royal Palace and beautiful Park El Retiro. Madrid’s cultural diversity and world-famous art museums are guaranteed to offer something for everyone’s taste.

Penedès Wine Country

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Explore the birthplace of the famous Cava (Catalan champagne) while exploring the vineyards and underground cellars of the Penedès wineries, learning about the wine-making process, and enjoying a wine tasting. Finish the day with a typical Catalan lunch, where you can try favorites like pa amb tomàquet.

Pyrenees and Romanesque Art

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At the northeastern edge of the Pyrenees, Vall de Boí is known for its scenic landscape and for its nine tiny Romanesque churches, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the amazing architecture and paintings before completing your excursion with a hike in the stunning Aigüestortes National Park.