Overview

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad, formerly known as EuroLearn, works in conjunction with our partner in Spain, Active Learning Abroad, for in-country support and services to design this program with your individual student goals in mind. It is built around a unique Discovery Model which is delivered by some of the best staff in study abroad, both in the U.S. and overseas, in order to provide you with an individualized experience through discovery in 5 key areas: personal, academic, cultural, social, and professional. Learn more about the Discovery Model.

The University of Barcelona (UB) was founded in 1450. It is the largest in university in Catalonia with 81,000 students, of which 13,000 are international. There are also 4,700 professors, lecturers, and researchers. The UB is also the principle center of university research in Spain and has become a European benchmark for research activity, both in terms of the number of research programs it conducts and the excellence these have achieved. The UB is among the best academic centers in Spain and the European Union, both for the quality of its teaching staff and for its excellent research. The university currently offers 76 undergraduate degrees, 115 master’s degrees, 82 doctoral programs, and 316 postgraduate programs.

The Estudios Hispánicos department of the UB has a long tradition in the teaching of Spanish language and culture to foreigners. For the last 50 years, thousands of students, mainly from universities in over 200 different countries, have participated in its programs. Europe is a multilingual continent, and Barcelona is a bilingual city (Spanish and Catalan). Learning languages is an essential way of learning about other cultures, and that familiarity with other cultures can only help to foster an atmosphere of tolerance and harmony between our respective communities.

The University of Barcelona is recognized and accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree-granting institution of higher learning. 

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Location

Barcelona is a cosmopolitan, avant garde city in the northeast of Spain on the Mediterranean coast. It is famous for its artistic works and culture, and represents the spirit of the different Mediterranean peoples that have formed its present personality. Barcelona has many museums and architectural creations that will captivate its visitors. It is impossible to spend time in this city without being impressed by its cultural heritage, and leaving with a greater understanding of our globalized world.

Barcelona’s mild climate and the diversity of the different landscapes of the Catalonia region provide students with a variety of opportunities to spend time on the beaches, in the Pyrenees Mountains, or visiting some of the most famous wineries and cava (champagne) caves of Spain.
 

With an approximate population of 1,600,000 people Barcelona is the perfect place to spend a semester or an academic year as a student. It is a city where our students will get to know many other international students since the city is one of the most popular destinations for international students.

The University of Barcelona is located in the city center in Plaça Universitat very near several Metro and bus stops, countless restaurants, and famous tourist attractions.

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Academic Highlights

Hispanic Studies Program Overview

• Minimum GPA: 2.50
• Language of instruction: Spanish and English
• Language requirements: Open to all levels. Beginning students must have completed one level of college level Spanish, or the equivalent, for admission.
• Place of instruction: University of Barcelona
• Participants: International students
• Upon arrival students take a placement exam to determine language level

Subject Areas

Spanish language courses are offered at beginner, elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels. All students are required to enroll in a language course while abroad.  All elective courses, but two, are taught in English.

Elective Subject Areas (taught at all language levels in Spanish only)

• Culture, art, and history
• Economy and society
• Instrumental languages courses

To see specific course offerings, please view our course catalog. 

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Housing

Students may choose from the following housing options: homestay, residence halls, or shared apartments. We always try to provide students with their first housing choice, but we cannot guarantee it. It is why we recommend students apply in advance so they have a better chance to obtain their preferred option.

Homestay

Staying with a host family is a way to enrich the student’s experience and to reinforce the knowledge gained during the program. We select our families carefully and have known them for years. All of them have extensive experience accommodating foreign students. Upon arrival students receive a key to the house so they may come and go as they please. Students will be able to receive telephone calls, but most likely will not be able to have guests over. Two daily meals are provided and one laundry load per week are provided.

Residence

This is an off-campus student residence. Spaniards and international students are residents of this option mostly in double rooms, depending on availability some singles may be offered as well. Kitchen and bathroom may be private or shared. There are also common areas. Usually, the residence offers laundry facilities and meals may or may not be included.

Shared Apartment

These apartments are shared by international students. They have single and double bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with cooking utensils, washing machine, refrigerator, and shared bathrooms. Students must respect building community rules and maintain the apartment in decent conditions. The price of accommodation includes the cost of utilities (electricity, gas, water) within reason, and, in most cases, a weekly cleaning of the communal areas. Meals are not included.
 

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University Services

University of Barcelona offers many services to study abroad students, including the “Self-Learning Center”, where students find all necessary materials to reinforce what they learn in the classroom; UB libraries; the Computer Room, WiFi on campus (students must get a code at the Secretary’s Office); Cafeteria; Conversation exchange with native Spanish speakers from the UB, Annual Writing Competition, Annual Photo Competition, as well as an end-of-the year party. 

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Orientation

Bridging Cultures Program

The GlobaLinks Learning Abroad Bridging Cultures Program is our signature orientation program for all semester and year abroad students. The cost for this multi-day program is included in your program fees and covers some meals, local transportation, and excursions.

Typically 4-6 days in length, each orientation program includes:

Exciting excursions and activities

A chance to meet other students

Orientation sessions to help you adapt to your new country

Orientation sites vary based on the location of your program. Each site is selected based on the proximity to your host university as well as for the unique activities available within the area. Read more about the Bridging Cultures Program>
 

University Orientation

In addition to the GlobaLinks Learning Abroad Bridging Cultures Program, all students will participate in a university specific orientation. Students visit University of Barcelona facilities before classes begin to take their placement test and get familiar with their new environment. UB provides students with a university ID that allows them to benefit from discounts in different types of services. The first day of classes teachers give a presentation on the University as well.

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Overseas Staff and Support

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad and Active Learning Abroad have forged a unique partnership to provide high quality study abroad opportunities in Spain. Active Learning Abroad (ALA) is GlobaLinks’ partner and overseas office for all students studying for a summer or semester at a university in Spain. The ALA offices and staff in Barcelona, Sevilla, Salamanca, and Madrid work closely with GlobaLinks Learning Abroad staff in the U.S. to provide all students with services and support throughout the experience. This ensures that each student is ensured an individualized experience both during the pre-departure stage and while in country. The ALA team in Spain delivers the Bridging Cultures Program onsite and Discovery Activities throughout the semester or summer and are also available 24/7 for emergency support.

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Scholarships Available

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad strives to offer the most reasonable abroad fees to Europe. To further enhance the affordability of the semester/year study abroad program, we encourage you to apply for scholarships through all available scholarship sources. Learn more about our scholarship opportunities.

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Get Involved Abroad

Extracurricular Activities

There are a variety of ways to get involved while you're abroad. Our in-country staff can connect you with resources and opportunities at University of Barcelona.  Language exchange opportunities are available and are highly recommended in order to practice the language with native speakers while you are abroad.

Community Involvement

We encourage our students to experience the local customs and immerse in the local culture by participating in our organized cultural and social activities. We will have a guided tour of the city, visiting places such as Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, the Gothic quarter and the cathedral, Plaza Catalunya and las Ramblas, the Park Guell and other interesting places.

All students are encouraged to participate in volunteer activities at or near their campus, where permitted under host-country immigration regulations. Service learning is an integral piece of a well-rounded education, and we support students’ efforts to integrate into the local culture through volunteer activities. Students are provided with information on volunteer opportunities on campus or within the community during the orientation and preparation process.
 

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Special Programs and Excursions

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad and Active Learning Abroad will provide excursions to all students participating in a semester/academic year program. This will allow students to get familiar with some of the most interesting cities and areas in Spain from cultural, artistic, and historic perspectives. Semester abroad students usually have two overnight trips and two day excursions. Below are some examples of previous excursions. Please note not all excursions will be offered each term and locations are subject to change.

Madrid

Madrid is the capital of Spain and its largest city. It is the most important economic and financial center of the Iberian Peninsula. Full of great Museums (i.e. El Prado, Reina Sofía) Madrid offers endless cultural opportunities and a vibrant social life. Walking through the streets of Madrid neighborhoods (Habsburg, Bourbon) visitors will discover its long and interesting history while at the same time admiring Madrid’s modern business districts.

Seville

Located in the region of Andalucia, or "Al-Andalus" as it was known during the Moorish rule, this vibrant and traditional city is home to many examples of Arab influence, including the Giralda tower (bell tower) next to the cathedral. Other popular sites include the Alcazar (Arab fortress and royal gardens), the old Jewish quarter (Barrio Santa Cruz), Plaza de España & Maria Luisa park. You will discover the traditional culture of Spain in this beautiful southern city.
 

Girona and Figueres

Girona offers its enchanting medieval quarter, its narrow streets, and its Catalan personality. Figueres is the place of surrealism, home of the Dalí museum and where visitors will discover the art works of this international genius.

Montserrat

This unique geographic formation, its name meaning "serrated" or "saw tooth" mountain, is located about 50 kilometers from Barcelona. It is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, offering breathtaking views across the plain all the way to Barcelona and the sea. The highest peak reaches 1,235 meters.
 

The Pyrenees

These magnificent mountains are not only the perfect place for practicing skiing but also the ideal environment for people who enjoy nature and its multiple expressions: high mountains, wild rivers, lakes, and wild life.

Costa Brava

This is one of the most visited summer spots in Spain. Once you see the beauty of its beaches and its Mediterranean pine woods along the coastline you will agree that this is a very nice place to enjoy with your friends.

Sitges

Just a few miles south of Barcelona this small, young, modern town offers visitors a laid back beach town where they may spend a relaxing time. Sitges was a fishing town that has become a nice place where restaurants and cafes are all over the city.

 

Valencia

The city of Valencia is the capital of the region that shares its name and the Spanish Costa Blanca. This Mediterranean city, which is the third largest city in Spain, is known for introducing the Spanish and international dish paella. The old medieval town and the modern Palacio de las Artes y las Ciencias provide visitors with a mixture of old and new architecture expressions. Do not forget to stroll along the Malvarrosa beach and enjoy the social life the city offers.


Ground transportation, entrance fees, and guided tours are included in program fees for all excursions. Hotel accommodation and breakfast are also included in all overnight excursions.
 

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Enhance Your Experience Online

Global Citizen Development

The new Global Citizen Development modules are online learning components designed to help you explore your study abroad destination and experience at a whole new level. These modules are not mandatory; however, we strongly encourage your participation as they will introduce you to the opportunities and challenges you may encounter when participating in a study abroad program, as well as expose you to cultural insights and knowledge about your host country to help make your program abroad even more successful and fulfilling.

Course Catalog

To determine if the classes you need are available at this university, select Courses/Subjects to view the specific course options.

Tips: For advice on navigating the university’s course catalog, use the Selecting Courses link. You may also view the suggested grade and credit transfer information through the Grade Conversion.

If you have any questions about course availability, please contact [email protected].

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Photo Slideshow

Watch a slideshow of pictures from Barcelona

Ask an Alumni

Ever wonder what it's like to live in Europe? Are you having trouble finding the right university for you? Speak to students that were already there! They are truly experts on their universities and cities, and want to help you go abroad too.

Email [email protected] with your name, email, and your specific program of interest and we'll email you with the contact details for one of our 20,000 alumni!

Please don't hesitate to contact us as well with any questions.
 

Fees

Fee Includes

What’s Included in the Program Fee?

Everything you would expect:

• Personalized Program Counseling including: MyLearn on-line admissions system, Course selection and credit transfer, Immigration visa assistance, Travel arrangements & airport pickup, Financial aid transfer and financial planning, Pre-departure webinar, Comprehensive participant guide, Help for parents and advisors
• Tuition
• Housing without meals - The fee also includes accommodation in a self-catered apartment. Housing with meal options may be available at an additional cost.
• Transfer Credit
• Health Insurance
• On-site Staff
• 24/7 emergency support in North American and abroad
• Internet and cell phone access
• Access to scholarships
• Alumni program onyour return

NOTE: Fees for programs in Spain include a $500 discount for students from affiliate universities. The fee for students from non-affiliated universities will be an additional $500.

More than you expect:

• Multi-day Bridging Cultures Orientation Program
• Discovery Activities throughout your time abroad
• Day Trips & Weekend Excursions are included

Housing amenities are generally:

• Single room
• Technology package available
• Linen package available

An additional refundable housing deposit may be required for your housing selection. If the housing is self-catered (no meals), you will have access to a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. If you would prefer housing with meals, it is available for an extra fee either as a homestay or in a residental hall. Contact us for more information.

*All fees are subject to change.

Dates

Entry Requirements

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad Program Team

	Program Manager Carrie Davis [email protected] 1-800-980-0033 x136
	Program Assistant Corey Westbury [email protected] 1-800-980-0033 X 143
	Resident Director Arturo Jarque [email protected]
	Resident Coordinator Kristin Hickey [email protected]