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Service Learning
Barcelona, Spain
About the Program
Affect change by researching a local social issue, working to implement change, and reflecting on your experience, a process that enhances your understanding of issues that impact your host community. Designed for students at a high-beginning and above level of Spanish language proficiency, you'll engage in local culture in a carefully selected service-learning placement, gaining hands-on skills while giving back. A complementary seminar focuses on the current social challenges facing Spain, Catalonia, and Barcelona. You may also choose to enroll in elective courses at the CEA Barcelona Center, taught in English. Spanish language courses are available.
Requirements
Overview
Barcelona
5/24/18 - 7/26/18
$7,995
3
Deadlines
Closed
5/1/18
Requirements
Eligibility
2.5
High Beginner And Above
High School Graduate
Where You'll Study
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
The CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, located in the bustling Plaza de Catalunya, places you in the heart of one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. Surrounded by the vibrant neighborhoods ...
CEA CAPA Barcelona Center
The CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, located in the bustling Plaza de Catalunya, places you in the heart of one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. Surrounded by the vibrant neighborhoods of Eixample, Gothic, and Born—each just minutes away on foot—the Center offers convenient access to Barcelona’s iconic landmarks, world-class shopping, and diverse culinary scene. From the famous Las Ramblas to the elegant Passeig de Gracia, you will have access to every corner of Barcelona allowing you to maximize your study abroad experience.
The Barcelona Study Center offers an interdisciplinary liberal arts education, utilizing the city as an immersive learning environment. Courses, offered in both English and Spanish, cover subjects like history, politics, culture, economics, and art. You can actively engage with Barcelona’s rich history and contemporary relevance through visits to monuments, museums, and local markets, along with unforgettable excursions to rural Spanish cities.
The dedicated onsite team provides personalized support, helping you navigate your academic and professional goals while curating cultural events and activities to enrich your time abroad. With modern facilities, including study spaces, and social areas, the Barcelona Center creates a welcoming environment for collaboration and connection.
With its dynamic setting and innovative programs, the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center delivers a transformative study abroad experience rooted in cultural exploration and academic excellence in one of Spain’s most iconic cities.
Transcript Information
Courses at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center are transcripted by the University of New Haven (UNH), CEA CAPA’s School of Record.
Accreditation
Courses taught at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center have been designed in conjunction with, and approved by, the University of New Haven (UNH). In addition, faculty appointments have been approved by UNH. After the successful completion of a session at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center, you will receive credit for your work from UNH. Located in Connecticut, the University of New Haven is a student-focused, comprehensive university that’s fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The agreement between CEA CAPA and UNH follows the highest standards of good practice in education abroad and satisfies the rigorous requirements of the University's institutional accreditor, making credits earned at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center easily transferable to US-accredited institutions. To learn more about UNH's service as a School of Record for CEA CAPA, please contact Academics@ceacapa.com.
Grading
Professors at the CEA CAPA Barcelona Center carefully evaluate students' work and progress throughout their academic session. When calculating final grades, instructors consider written and oral exercises, homework assignments, attendance, classroom participation, and exam performance.
The following grading scale is in use for CEA CAPA center-delivered syllabi:
| DESCRIPTOR | ALPHA | NUMERIC | GPA | REQUIREMENT/EXPECTATION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding (High Distinction) |
A | 93+ | 4.0 | Maximum grade: In addition to description for grade "A-", the participant shows detailed understanding of materials about which he or she can show independent analytical ability. This means the ability to question an issue from different perspectives and evaluate responses in an objective manner. |
| Excellent (Distinction) |
A- | 90 - 92.99 | 3.7 | Participant shows understanding of literature beyond the textbook/class hand-outs/class notes, and the work shows a high level of independent thought, presents informed and insightful discussion, and demonstrates a well-developed capacity for evaluation. |
| Very good (High Credit) |
B+ | 87 - 89.99 | 3.3 | Shows evidence of a capacity to generalize from the taught content, or the material in literature, or from class lectures in an informed manner. Also, the work demonstrates a capacity to integrate personal reflection into the discussion and an appreciation of a range of different perspectives. |
| Good (Credit) |
B | 83 - 86.99 | 3.0 | The work is well-organized and contains coherent or logical argumentation and presentation. |
| Good (Credit) |
B- | 80 - 82.99 | 2.7 | Participant shows understanding of literature beyond the textbook and/or notes, and there is evidence of additional reading. |
| Average (Good Pass) |
C+ | 77 - 79.99 | 2.3 | The work demonstrates a capacity to integrate research into the discussion and a critical appreciation of a range of theoretical perspectives. Also, the work demonstrates a clear understanding of the question and its theoretical implications and demonstrates evidence of additional reading. |
| Adequate (Pass) |
C | 73 - 76.99 | 2.0 | Shows clear understanding and some insight into the material in the textbook and notes, but not beyond. A deficiency in understanding the material may be compensated by evidence of independent thought and effort related to the subject matter. |
| Below Average (Borderline Pass) |
C- | 70 - 72.99 | 1.7 | Shows some understanding of the material in the textbook and notes. A deficiency in any of the above may be compensated by evidence of independent thought related to the subject matter. |
| Inadequate (Borderline Fail) |
D+ | 67 - 69.99 | 1.3 | Fails to show a clear understanding or much insight into the material in the textbook and notes. |
| Poor (Fail) |
D | 60 - 66.99 | 1.0 | Besides the above for D+, participant has not shown interest or engagement in the class work or study. |
| Poor (Fail) |
F | <60 | 0 | Shows little or no understanding of any of the material. |
Classroom and Information
- Classes are taught by international faculty.
- Classes meet daily, Monday – Thursday. Active learning components required by your courses may be scheduled for Fridays.
- Most faculty are bilingual (Spanish/English) and represent a variety of different backgrounds.
- Periodic exams, homework assignments, and final exams will be administered.
- Attendance in all classes is mandatory and monitored by each professor.
- You’ll attend class with other CEA CAPA students of equivalent language levels, not with native Spanish students.
- Teaching styles in Spain may differ from those in the U.S. Be prepared to adapt to your school’s classroom structures and coursework expectations.
- The maximum class size is 15 students for language courses and 25 students for electives. Small class sizes mean more personalized attention from your instructors.
Amenities
Student Center
Student Lounge
Study Room
Counseling Services
Travel Books & Resources
Student ID
Printing Services
Internet Access & Wi-Fi
Academic Advising
Language Learning Services
3
Credits
Program Structure & Courses
Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-course option over an 8-week session. If you choose the 1-course option, you'll enroll in 1 service learning course. Your service learning course meets for 30 contact hours and you'll spend 7 hours per week at your service learning site. Together, your course and service learning placement are worth 3 credits.
Elective and language courses meet for 45 contact hours/3 credits. If you choose the 2-course option, you'll also enroll in 1 elective or language course and can earn up to a total of 6 credits (90 contact hours). If you choose the 3-course option, you'll also enroll in 2 elective or language courses and can earn up to a total of 9 credits (135 contact hours).
The service learning seminar meets twice per week over the 8-week session. Elective courses meet daily, Monday-Thursday over a 4-week period. Your service learning placement hours may take place Monday-Friday; the exact time of day and days of the week will be determined after you arrive in Barcelona. 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 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.
Elective and language courses meet for 45 contact hours/3 credits. If you choose the 2-course option, you'll also enroll in 1 elective or language course and can earn up to a total of 6 credits (90 contact hours). If you choose the 3-course option, you'll also enroll in 2 elective or language courses and can earn up to a total of 9 credits (135 contact hours).
The service learning seminar meets twice per week over the 8-week session. Elective courses meet daily, Monday-Thursday over a 4-week period. Your service learning placement hours may take place Monday-Friday; the exact time of day and days of the week will be determined after you arrive in Barcelona. 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 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.
All Levels Course Structure
Courses
The following courses have been confirmed for this term. Please note, the host institution reserves the right to cancel or change courses without prior notification.
*Courses with an asterisk indicate that the course has been associated with multiple subject areas.
Please click on the course title to view additional subject areas and detailed course information.
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Service Learning * | 300 | En | 45 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Service Learning * | 300 | En | 45 | 3 |
Interested in taking your career to the next level?
Where You'll Stay
*Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.
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Apartment (Double Rooms)
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
CEA CAPA Barcelona students enjoy vibrant city-living apartments as their standard housing option. Perfect for students who want to immerse themselves in local life, these apartments are located in charming neighborhoods. Picture yourself strolling past some of Barcelona's most stunning landmarks on your way to and from your Spanish home. Ideal for easygoing students who prefer sharing a bedroom with one CEA CAPA peer, making new friends, and avoiding supplemental housing fees. Apartments are shared with 2–9 peers in other rooms.
Please note that there is a limited number of Shared Double A/C Rooms available. If you wish to be placed in a Shared Double A/C Room, please avoid grouping yourself with friends unless they also select the same supplemental fee option.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Barcelona Center & local universities: 20-45 minutes by metro & walking
Meals Included
N/A
Roommates
- 2 students per room
- 3-10 students per apartment
Unit Amenities
Shared Double Room
- Shared kitchen w/basic utensils
- Bathroom co-ed shared with max.5 students
- Internet access
- Washer only
- Space heaters
- Bedding (1 basic set: Mattress protector fitted sheet, flat sheet, pillow, and pillowcase, 1 bath & 1 face towel)
- Weekly cleaning service in common areas (NOT inc. linen or towels)
Shared Double A/C Room
- Air conditioning in bedroom (repairs attempted if malfunctioning; no refunds)
Additional Fees
The Double Rooms Plus Amenities option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: TBC
- Semester: $1,400 - $2,300
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Apartment (Private Room)
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
CEA CAPA Barcelona students enjoy city-living apartments as their standard housing option. A perfect fit for the do-it-yourself types who want to experience Barcelona as a local apartment-dweller, CEA CAPA's apartments are located in vibrant neighborhoods. Stroll past some of the city's most beautiful treasures daily on your way to and from your Spanish abode. Most apartments combine single and double rooms, making them ideal for students who prefer a single bedroom within a shared apartment. Apartments are shared with 2–9 peers in other rooms.
Please note: If securing a Private or a Private A/C Room is your priority, we recommend not grouping yourself with friends for placement.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Barcelona Center & local universities: 20-45 minutes by metro & walking
Meals Included
N/A
Roommates
- 1 student per room
- 3-10 students per apartment
Unit Amenities
Private Room
- Shared kitchen w/basic utensils
- Bathroom co-ed shared with max.5 students
- Internet access
- Washer only
- Space heaters
- Bedding (1 basic set: Mattress protector fitted sheet, flat sheet, pillow, and pillowcase, 1 bath & 1 face towel)
- Weekly cleaning service in common areas (NOT inc. linen or towels
Private A/C Room
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Private RoomSummer: $300 - $1,200 Semester: $1,000 - $2,000
Private A/C RoomSummer: TBC Semester: $2,400 - $3,400
Private Room
Private A/C Room
Residence - Private A/C En-suite Room
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
If you're looking to experience university life abroad with added perks, upgrade to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. Residences feature front desk service, a gym, study rooms, and in some cases (though not guaranteed for all options), extra communal spaces like a swimming pool, projection room, games room, billiards, table soccer, and more. Ideal for those seeking independence while sharing kitchen and communal spaces. Located in the vibrant Sants and Poblenou neighborhoods.
Please note that there is a limited number of Residencia - Private A/C En-suite Room available. If you wish to be housed with your friends, bear in mind, they will have to select the same housing option and even then, each will have an independent unit within the building.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Barcelona Center: 15-30 minutes by metro & walking
- Local Universities: 20-40 minutes by metro & walking
Meals Included
N/A
Roommates
- 1 Student per room
Unit Amenities
- Shared kitchen
- Private bathroom ensuite
- Internet access
- Washer and dryer, pay-per-wash
- Central heating
- Air conditioning in unit and building
- In-room weekly cleaning service
- Bi-weekly bedsheet and towel change service.
- Gym
- Study areas
- Game rooms
- Community building activities
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: TBD
- Semester: TBD
Residence - Private Loft-Bed A/C En-suite Kitchenette Room
Available:
Summer
Semester
If you're seeking an enhanced university experience abroad, consider upgrading to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. This residence offers front desk service, a gym, study rooms, community activities, and vibrant communal spaces such as a cinema room, game room, and terraces. It also features an outdoor swimming pool. Ideal for those desiring greater independence while enjoying dynamic communal areas. Located in the lively San Marti district of Poblenou neighborhood, the rooms are designed with a modern loft bed layout, accessible via steps, combining style with functionality.
Please note that there is a limited number of Residence - Private Loft-Bed A/C En-suite Kitchenette Rooms. If you wish to be housed with your friends, bear in mind, they will have to select the same housing option and even then, each will have an independent unit within the building.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Barcelona Center: 30-45 minutes by metro and walking
- Local Universities: 30 minutes - 1 hour by metro plus walking
Meals Included
N/A
Roommates
1 Student per room
Unit Amenities
- Loft Bed above desk with steps access
- Modern aerothermal system with non-opening windows
- Private kitchenette & Shared kitchen
- Private bathroom ensuite
- Internet access
- Washer and dryer, pay-per-wash
- Central heating
- Air conditioning in unit and building
- In-room weekly cleaning service
- Bi-weekly bedsheet and towel change service.
- Gym
- Swimming Pool
- Study areas
- Game rooms
- Community building activities
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on program length. The exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: TBD
- Semester: TBD
Residence - Private A/C En-suite Kitchenette Room
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
If you're seeking an enhanced university experience abroad, consider upgrading to a Barcelona residence shared exclusively with local and international students. This residence offers front desk service, a gym, study rooms, community activities, and vibrant communal spaces such as private dining rooms, movie rooms, coffee lounges, and an outdoor swimming pool. It also includes a complimentary weekday grab-and-go breakfast. Ideal for those desiring greater independence while enjoying dynamic communal areas. Located in the lively Poblenou neighborhood.
Please note that there is a limited number of Residence - Private A/C En-suite Kitchenette Rooms. If you wish to be housed with your friends, bear in mind, they will have to select the same housing option and even then, each will have an independent unit within the building.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Barcelona Center: 15-30 minutes by metro and walking
- Local universities: 20-40 minutes by metro & walking
Meals Included
- Breakfast to-go from Monday to Friday
Roommates
- 1 Student per room
Unit Amenities
- Private kitchenette & Shared kitchen
- Private bathroom ensuite
- Internet access
- Washer and dryer, pay-per-wash
- Central heating
- Air conditioning in unit and building
- In-room weekly cleaning service
- Bi-weekly bedsheet and towel change service.
- Gym
- Swimming Pool
- Study areas
- Game rooms
- Community building activities
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Summer: TBD
- Semester: TBD
Homestay
Available:
Semester
Engage in Barcelona’s vibrant Catalan culture firsthand when you live in a homestay with a Local family. For the culture-seeking type who want to live life abroad exactly as their host locals do, homestays enable students the opportunity to dive headfirst into Spanish life for an additional fee.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Barcelona Center & local universities: 20-40 minutes by metro & walking
Meals Included
- Full Board - 3 meals per day
Roommates
- 1 Student per room
- 1 -2 Students per homestay
Unit Amenities
- Shared-co-ed bathroom
- Bed linens included
- Towels included
- Room cleaning once a week
- Internet access
- Washer only (two loads per week)
- Space heaters
- Fans provided
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Semester: $2,000 - $3,500
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.
What's Included in your Program
From housing to excursions, our programs include a variety of inclusions to enhance your study abroad experience! Here are examples that may be available in Barcelona. Inclusions vary by program – please contact our Enrollment and Advising team to find out what options are available for you.
- Personalized Pre-Departure Advising
- Visa & Immigration Advising
- Financial Advising
- Tuition and Registration
- Airport Pick-up
- Onsite Orientation
- City Tour
- Onsite Staff Support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Travel Medical Insurance
- International Emergency Service Support
- Welcome & Farewell Events
- Centrally Located Housing
- Wellness Activities
- Cultural Engagement
- Language Exchanges
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Excursions
- Student Clubs & Organizations
- Host Institution Services & Amenities
- Career & Re-entry Workshop
- Official Transcript(s)
Sample Calendar
Below is a tentative itinerary for your program. Please note, dates and events below may change without prior notification. Contact CEA CAPA before purchasing airline tickets.
You will receive a finalized itinerary once you arrive onsite.
Note: Additional cultural activities/excursions or required course-related activities may be incorporated into your final itinerary. You are advised not to make personal travel arrangements until you have the final dates.
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
|
May 24
|
Arrival/Program Begins
Official Program Start Date. Students must arrive at the Barcelona airport on this date in order to be eligible for airport pickup. Students will then be transferred to their assigned housing. |
|
May 25
|
Orientation
Mandatory CEA Orientation will be held. |
|
May 28
|
Classes Begin
Classes begin at CEA Center on this day. |
|
June 01
|
Excursion
CEA Excursion to Girona and Tossa de Mar. |
|
June 08 - 10
|
Excursion
CEA Excursion to Madrid. |
|
July 06
|
Excursion
CEA Excursion to Winery and Sitges Modernista. |
|
July 13 - 15
|
Excursion
CEA Excursion to Valencia. |
|
July 24
|
Classes End
This is the last day of classes at CEA. |
|
July 24
|
Final Exams
Final exams will be held at CEA. |
|
July 26
|
Program Ends/Move-Out
Official Program End Date. Students must move out of housing no later than this day. |
Sample Budget
This budget contains costs that you can take to your financial aid office. Please note that amounts may fluctuate; we've included a range of costs.
Federal law allows the use of financial aid to cover "reasonable" costs of study abroad including round-trip transportation, tuition and fees for the program, living costs, passport and visa fees, health insurance, and more.
Please note that all costs and charges listed below are subject to change without notice. With the exception of Program Price, all costs are estimates and may vary.