Latin American Studies
Spring 2025 Semester - Early Start Buenos Aires

About the Program

Through a combo of Spanish language instruction and focused courses in either Spanish or English, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of Latin American culture, history, economics, and politics. Semester students may choose an Early Start option to jump-start their Spanish language proficiency before the session begins. The semester program is designed for students at all Spanish levels, while the summer program is designed for students at high-intermediate and above Spanish level.

Program Structure

Enroll in 4-5 Latin American studies courses. Language and elective courses meet for 30-90 contact hours/2-5 credits. Most courses are 60 contact hours/3 credits. If you choose the Early Start option, you’ll enroll in a language course that meets for 120 contact hours/6 credits. You may earn 12-15 credits (up to 300 contact hours); if you choose the Early Start option, you may earn 18-21 credits (up to 420 contact hours).

The University of Belgrano utilizes a 45-minute contact hour whereas the United States higher education system utilizes a 50-minute contact hour. All University of Belgrano courses represent the 45 contact hour amount and an estimated US credit calculation based on the contact hours. Each University of Belgrano transcript will include the number of hours per week and the weeks in the semester, so US universities may calculate the appropriate number of US credits for students.

Classes meet for 4 hours per week on Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday. Early Start language classes meet Monday-Friday for 25 hours per week. 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. Final course registration takes place on-site. 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. To ensure that you receive credit for the language level you place into, have your home school pre-approve courses at several levels before you leave for Argentina. 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.

Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

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A World Heritage Site, Colonia was founded by the Portuguese in 1680. The historic quarter still captures the look and feel of the colonial era in Latin America. You’ll travel by ferry across the River Plate from Buenos Aires to explore this charming town’s cobbled streets leading to old lighthouses, inns, restaurants, and its original bullfighting ring. You’ll also enjoy a traditional lunch during your time in Uruguay.

Iguazú Falls

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Spanning three countries, Iguazu Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a popular destination. Thousands travel to Iguazu Falls every year to marvel at the Garganta del Diablo, a U-shaped cascade that is 269 feet tall and almost 2,300 feet long. You'll enjoy an overnight trip and a full-day excursion to Iguazu National Park.

Polo Day

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Attend a polo match and learn about one of Argentina’s most popular sports. You’ll have the opportunity to sit in the stadium and join fans as they cheer (elegantly) for their favorite team. Availability of this excursion depends on polo matches schedule and location.

Tigre

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One of the world’s largest deltas, this popular riverside retreat just north of Buenos Aires is a wonderful place to get away from the bustling city. Indulge in a traditional lunch, relax on a ferry tour, and browse local artisans’ handmade crafts at the Puerto de Frutos open air market.