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Universidad Carlos III de Madrid - Direct Enroll
Madrid, Spain
About the Program
Study abroad at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, one of Spain’s top-ranked universities. Its business programs hold AACSB accreditation, and its engineering programs are accredited by the European Network for Accreditation of Engineering Education, EUR-ACE. Choose from a wide range of courses in business, media, global studies, and engineering and study alongside Spanish and international students. With nearly 100 STEM options available each semester and diverse offerings in finance, marketing, politics, and communications, you’ll gain a global perspective while experiencing life in one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural and economic centers.
Requirements
Overview
Madrid
1/15/27 - 5/29/27
$23,495
12 - 15
Deadlines
10/1/26
11/1/26
Requirements
Eligibility
2.5
All Levels
1 Year of College
Where You'll Study
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Since its founding in 1989, the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) has grown into one of the leading higher education institutions in Spain. The public university offers a range of cours...
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Since its founding in 1989, the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) has grown into one of the leading higher education institutions in Spain. The public university offers a range of courses to a culturally diverse population of more than 19,000 students. More than 3400 international students participate in exchange programs through the university each year.
You will have the opportunity to take courses from two different campus locations. Each campus is about 15-25 minutes train ride from Puerta del Sol in Madrid. There are also buses that run between the campuses. The Getafe campus is where students take their Social Science and language classes while the Leganés campus is where students take their Engineering, Science, and Math courses.
You will have access to the same university facilities and will be able to take courses in English with local Spanish students, allowing you to fully appreciate UC3M student life. By sharing the campus with local and other international students you’ll have the opportunity to meet and interact with your peers.
Credit Transfer Information
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid awards credits based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) system. CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 2 ECTS credits equals 1 U.S. semester credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Transcript Information
Students receive a transcript from Universidad Carlos III de Madrid upon successful completion of the program. The transcript reflects ECTS credits.
Accreditation
The Universidad Carlos III de Madrid is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree granting institution of higher learning. The university also holds accreditation from AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and AMBA (Association for MBA programs).
Grading
Grade conversions from CEA CAPA partner institutions abroad to a US grading scale are determined in consultation with our School of Record and benchmarked with other peer institutions in the field.
Please note that CEA CAPA can only recommend grade conversions to students’ home institutions—it is ultimately at the discretion of the home institution to convert grades from abroad to students’ academic records.
For further information or details about grade conversion for a particular host institution, please reach out to our Registrar at registrar@ceacapa.com.
Please note that CEA CAPA can only recommend grade conversions to students’ home institutions—it is ultimately at the discretion of the home institution to convert grades from abroad to students’ academic records.
For further information or details about grade conversion for a particular host institution, please reach out to our Registrar at registrar@ceacapa.com.
Classroom and Information
- Faculty from UC3M teach your language, social science, STEM courses, including other electives.
- Periodic exams, homework assignments, and final exams will be administered.
- Attendance in all classes is mandatory and monitored by each professor.
- Teaching styles in Spain may differ from those in the U.S. Be prepared to adapt to different classroom structures and coursework expectations.
- Class size ranges between 5 and 20 students for language courses and between 10 and 40+ students for electives.
- You may attend class with international students from the U.S., Europe, Canada, and other parts of the world.
Amenities
Student Offices
Clubs & Organizations
Student Government
Student Lounge
Study Room
Study Area
Counseling Services
University Library
Computer Lab
Printing Facilities
Student ID
Multi-Media
Internet Access & Wi-Fi
Academic Advising
Tutoring
Language Exchange with Local Students
Fitness Facilities
Student Sports Teams
Dining Facilities
Banks & Post Office
On-campus ATM
Lockers
12-15
Credits
Program Structure & Courses
You will enroll in 4-5 courses at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M). Engineering courses are taught at the Leganés campus, whereas all other course are taught at the Getafe campus. As such, you’ll be required to commute between the two campuses. The campuses are connected by a university shuttle, public bus, or bike paths. Expected inter-campus commute time is approximately 45-60 minutes.
All courses meet for 42 contact hours/3 US semester credits. Students may earn up to 12-15 credits (up to 210 contact hours). Courses may meet in the morning or afternoon, Monday-Friday. Active learning components required by your courses may be scheduled for Fridays.
The academic structure below lists a small sample of subject areas available. You will have access to introductory, intermediate and advanced courses in a variety of subject areas. See below for information on how to access the UC3M website for a full list of courses. If you are at an Advanced level of Spanish or above you have the option to take content courses taught in Spanish in the UC3M International School. Please contact a CEA CAPA Student Advisor for more information.
Prior to departure, you will select your preferred courses. You will need to register in the 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 or potential schedule overlap. Please consult with your academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
All Levels Course Structure
Courses
The host institution has offered the following courses in the past. Please note that course listings will not be finalized until the start of the term.
*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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accounting Introduction | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Financial Accounting II * | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Fixed Income and Derivatives * | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advertising and Communication * | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerial Navigation, Air Transportation and Airports | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Art Masters in Madrid Museums * | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biophysics 1: Molecular, Cell and Tissue Physical Biology | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fundamentals of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Analysis of Dynamic Data | 300, 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Big Data for Business Intelligence | 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| International Business Management * | 300, 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Organization Behaviour | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Fundaments of Engineering | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry II | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Participation of Civil Society in the Internet | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Networks and Services | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithms and Data Structures | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Geography | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Social Groups and its Cultural Imaginaries | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Economics | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control Engineering I | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy in Buildings | 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Fluid Mechanics | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Documentary and Report | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Financial Strategy | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Globalization and Society | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History of the World Economy * | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Tendencies in Literary Studies | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computational Fluid Dynamics | 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conflict and Violence | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Journalism | 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labour Law and Social Security | 300, 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Management Control | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Innovation Management | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial and Service Marketing * | 300, 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calculus II | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Engineering Management | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Analysis of audio-visual discourse | 200 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feminism | 300 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physics II | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| European Politics and Society | 300, 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Media Psychology * | 100 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Culture and Identity in Globalization | 400 | En | 42 | 3 |
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language: Beginner Level | 100 | Sp | 42 | 3 |
- Accounting
- Business
- Computer Sciences
- Cultural Studies
- Economics
- Engineering
- Finance
- Global Studies
- History
- Humanities
- International Relations
- Journalism
- Management
- Marketing
- Mathematics
- Media Studies
- Physics
- Political Science
- Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Sociology
- Spanish Language
Navigating the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid Website for Courses
UC3M organizes courses by Knowledge Areas/degrees. Click on the links provided below to access the degree plans and corresponding courses for each area of knowledge. Note that UC3M also offers double majors which are just a combination of 2 degrees that are already listed individually in the degree list. Each degree lists the Program information with the following details:
- Year and Semester
- Semester 1 = Fall semester
- Semester 2 = Spring semester
- Course title & link to syllabus
- ECTS credits*
- Language of Instruction
Please refer to the Course Offer Guide for additional details on how to navigate the UC3M’s website.
Knowledge Area 1: Social Sciences and Humanities
- Affiliated Degrees: Law, Economics, Business, Social Sciences, Humanities, Communication and Documentation
- Campus: Getafe
Knowledge Area 2: Engineering
- Affiliated Degrees: Engineering and related fields
- Campus: Leganés
In addition, students have access to courses at the UC3M International School. These courses focus on Spanish language and culture, and are taken with other American and international students.
*CEA CAPA credit hour recommendations are based on the following conversion: 2 ECTS credits equals 1 U.S. semester credit. Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university. Please consult with an academic advisor at your home university on credit pre-approval guidelines.
Interested in taking your career to the next level?
Where You'll Stay
We offer different housing options to match your budget, preferences, and study abroad goals. 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.
Global Housing Standards
Learn more about what's included with CEA CAPA housing.
Learn more about what's included with CEA CAPA housing.
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Global Housing Standards
Your housing abroad is more than a place to sleep, it's a place to feel at home.
Health & Safety
Health and safety are a top priority when selecting and reviewing program housing. When evaluating housing, CEA CAPA considers several factors including the surrounding location, commute time to academic or internship settings, as well as the condition of the building exterior and interior, common areas, the individual housing unit, and other living spaces. CEA CAPA works to ensure that program housing meets established minimum health and safety guidelines and aligns with best practices in the field.
Cleaning Services
Regular cleaning of communal areas for programs longer than 4 weeks.
Wi-Fi
Reliable internet access is included in every housing option we offer.
Students Per Bedroom
Typically 1–2 students per bedroom, with a maximum of 3 per room.
Commute Time
Housing is located within 60 minutes of campus by foot or transportation.
Temperature Control
Cooling and heating appliances are provided (AC not always included).
Kitchen Access
A shared space with basic utensils, refrigerator, freezer, and a stove, oven, or microwave.
Laundry
Access to laundry is guaranteed onsite or within walking distance. Drying racks included.
Study Space
A desk in your room or a table in a common area.
Storage Space
Practical, modest storage space for personal belongings.
Linens
Pillows, blankets and sheets.
Global Housing Standards apply to CEA CAPA-sourced housing only, beginning Summer 2026.
Housing provided by partner universities may differ slightly.
Apartment Shared Room
Embrace authentic Spanish local life from an apartment located in Madrid with easy access to public transportation, shopping, and leisure areas. You'll share your bedroom with a fellow student, and share the apartment and kitchen with 3 to 15 other students, creating an instant community and a lively home base. This option is ideal for independent students who want the flexibility and responsibility of apartment living.
This housing option is included in the program price.
Additional Options
To elevate your study abroad experience, apartments located within a 25 minute commute from Plaza del Sol are available for a supplemental fee. Supplemental fees may vary depending on the included amenities as well as the length of the program. The exact amount will be provided on the housing application form.
Apartment Private Room
Embrace authentic Spanish local life from an apartment located in Madrid with easy access to public transportation, shopping, and leisure areas. You'll enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own room, and will share the apartment and kitchen with 3 to 15 other students, creating an instant community and a lively home base. This option is ideal for independent students who want the flexibility and responsibility of apartment living.
This housing option carries a supplemental fee that may vary depending on the included amenities as well as the length of the program. The exact amount will be provided on the housing application form.
Additional Options
To elevate your study abroad experience, apartments located within a 25 minute commute from Plaza del Sol are available for a supplemental fee.
Homestay
Immerse yourself in Madrid by living in a welcoming homestay with convenient access to public transportation. You'll share your bedroom with one student and may share the homestay with up to two other students. Homestay includes breakfast and dinner (Monday - Sunday), as well as bedroom cleaning and laundry service once a week. This option is ideal for students eager to fully delve into Spanish culture, experiencing local customs, language, traditions, and cuisine.
This housing option carries a supplemental fee that may vary depending on the included amenities as well as the length of the program. The exact amount will be provided on the housing application form.
Additional Options
To elevate your study abroad experience, private homestay rooms are available for a supplemental fee.
Residencia Shared Room
Discover a rich student community in a well-located residence with convenient access to public transportation. This option allows you to live alongside local and international students, providing a unique opportunity for global connection. You will share your room, bathroom, and kitchenette with a fellow CEA CAPA student, while the building offers common areas and outdoor spaces for socializing. A full-board meal plan (Monday–Sunday) is included, and staff are available 24/7. This residence is ideal for students looking to immerse themselves in a Spanish university environment with the support of a fully managed facility.
This housing option carries a supplemental fee that may vary depending on the included amenities as well as the length of the program. The exact amount will be provided on the housing application form.
Residencia Private Room
Experience an upscale lifestyle in a premier residence designed for community and comfort. This option offers a modern, air-conditioned room with access to high-end amenities, including a rooftop pool, gym, and cinema lounge. When you aren’t out exploring Madrid’s historic plazas, you can socialize in the onsite café or cook in the shared kitchen. Perfectly located for easy public transportation access, this residence provides 24/7 security and professional management. It is the ideal choice for students seeking a vibrant, high-end home base with the support of a managed facility.
This housing option carries a supplemental fee that may vary depending on the included amenities as well as the length of the program. The exact amount will be provided on the housing application form.
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 Madrid. Inclusions vary by program – please contact our Enrollment and Advising team to find out what options are available for you.
- Airport Welcome
- Personalized Pre-Departure Advising
- Visa & Immigration Advising
- Financial Advising
- Tuition and Registration
- 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 |
|---|---|
|
January 15
|
Arrival/Program Begins
Official Program Start Date. Students will move in to their assigned housing. |
|
January 16 - 25
|
Orientation
Mandatory CEA CAPA Orientation sessions will be held. |
|
January 26
|
Classes Begin
Classes begin at Carlos III University (UC3M) on this day. |
|
May 07
|
Classes End
This is the last day of classes at UC3M. |
|
May 11 - 28
|
Final Exams
Final exams will be held at UC3M. |
|
May 29
|
Program Ends/Move-Out
Official Program End Date. Students must move out of housing no later than this day. |
Sample Budget
The sample budget is unavailable at this time. Please check back later or ask your CEA CAPA Admissions Counselor/Site Specialist for a comparable program's sample budget.