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Barcelona - Liberal Arts & Business

Why Barcelona?

It's an ideal location for traveling throughout Europe. It's bustling streets filled with activities to immerse yourself in the culture. These are just a couple of reasons why local companies and international businesses alike—including many startups—call Barcelona home. Soon you will, too, when you study abroad with us in this major hub for business and trade.

What You'll Study

Our Liberal Arts & Business Program offers a wide variety of IES Abroad courses to help you accommodate your academic needs. Many of these courses are primarily taught in English by our world-class faculty. You are grouped into language proficiency-based levels to focus your course enrollment options, which provides a sense of community with your fellow students and challenges you to maximize your learning.

In addition to your Spanish language course, you choose from a variety of English- and Spanish-taught IES Abroad area studies courses, as well as English- and Spanish-taught local university courses to round out your semester. All IES Abroad courses include courserelated activities that help you connect coursework with your surroundings. You can also add international work experience to your résumé while earning credit by participating in an internship placement and accompanying academic seminar, which is a free opportunity to enrich your experience in Barcelona.

Barcelona will be your classroom. Find yourself at home in the second-largest city in Spain, rich with influence in global commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts. Explore Barcelona through our  u unique DiscoverIES—cultural activities led by IES Abroad Barcelona professors. With more than 60 optional DiscoverIES per semester, you can get to know the city and its most important sights, buildings, and history. These activities are a great way to get to know the students on your program and our Barcelona staff and professors in a more relaxed environment.

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Daily Life

We want you to feel at home in Barcelona, so we do everything we can to help you integrate into local life. From internships to DiscoverIES, our job is to make sure you have the most authentic study abroad experience possible.

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$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from participating in an IES Abroad Program. This is why we commit more than $6 million to our scholarship and aid programs.
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Academics

Our mission is to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences.

We offer unique courses that explore Liberal Arts and Business through an in-depth and hands-on approach.

Our world-class course options at prestigious local universities enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives in class each day.

While in Barcelona, you take 15-19 credits per semester and all courses are worth 3 credits unless otherwise specified. Language courses are taught in Spanish. 

Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following required and optional components:

  • IES Abroad Spanish language course at your proficiency level (required, 3-7 credits)
  • English- or Spanish-taught IES Abroad area studies courses (optional, 3 credits each)
  • Research Methodology Seminar (optional, 4 credits) Involves the guided development of a detailed research project. Available at all language levels for students with a 3.5 GPA or higher.
  • Partner university courses
    • For International Students Only (optional, 3 credits each) These Spanish- and English-taught courses are designed for international students. They are available at the Universitat de Barcelona and Universitat Pompeu Fabra in a wide range of disciplines.
    • With Local Students (optional, 2-3 credits each) These courses, taught in English and Spanish, allow you to take classes with local students.
  • Internship placement and seminar (optional, 3 credits)
    • Business & Busniess Development
    • Event Management
    • International Relations

Courses

Our Liberal Arts & Business Program explores Spanish language and culture through courses in the following disciplines.

This is a list of planned course offerings and these courses are taught at the IES Abroad Center by local faculty. A final list of course offerings will be made available to you in your MyIESabroad account.

To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication.

Archaeology
Course Name Term Language Credits
AE/HS 250 - Mediterranean History and Heritage Fall, Spring English 3
Art History
Course Name Term Language Credits
AH 223A - Great 20th Century Artists of Catalonia: Picasso, Dalí and Miró Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
AH 223B - Great 20th Century Artists of Catalonia: Picasso, Dalí and Miró Spring Spanish 3
AH/HS 251 - Barcelona: The Cosmopolitan City Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
AT/AH 324 - Modernism in Architecture and Design in a Comparative Perspective Spring English 3
CU/AH 331 - Imagining Medieval Culture: The Communicative Power of Medieval Images Fall, Spring English 3
RL/AH 350 - The Iberian Peninsula: Cultures and Religions Through the Arts Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
US/AH 230 - International Events in Barcelona: An Artistic Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
US/AH 330 - Architecture and Landscape in Barcelona Fall, Spring English 3
US/AH 360 - The City as a Place to Live: The Barcelona Experience Fall, Spring English 3
Anthropology
Course Name Term Language Credits
AN/CU 338 - Barcelona: The Culinary City English 3
HP/AN 345 - Catalan Cultural Studies Fall, Spring English 3
PS/AN 340 - Self and Identity in a Postmodern World Fall, Spring English 3
SO/AN 320A - Sports and Society in Spain Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
SO/AN 320B - Sports and Society in Spain Fall, Spring Spanish 3
SO/AN 360 - Banditry and Mafias in the Mediterranean Fall, Spring English 3
WS/AN 336 - Gender and Culture in Spain and the Mediterranean Fall, Spring English 3
Art
Course Name Term Language Credits
AR 225 - Art and Design Fall, Spring English 3
Architecture
Course Name Term Language Credits
AT/AH 324 - Modernism in Architecture and Design in a Comparative Perspective Spring English 3
Communications
Course Name Term Language Credits
CM 327 - Language, Culture and Communication: The Spanish Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
CM/PG 316 - Photojournalism Fall, Spring English 3
IC/CM 329 - Language, Culture and Communication: Hispanic Cultures and their Societies Fall, Spring, Summer Spanish 3
LT/CM 353 - Storytelling Fall, Spring English 3
PO/CM 323 - Campaigning in Europe: From Propaganda to Political Marketing Fall, Spring English 3
PO/CM 335 - Media and Politics in Europe Fall, Spring English 3
WS/CM 380 - 4th Wave Feminism Fall, Spring English 3
Criminal Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
LW/CR 363 - Crime, Disorder, Policing and Justice: Spanish and European Perspectives Fall, Spring English 3
Catalan Language
Course Name Term Language Credits
CT 101 - Catalan Language for Beginners Fall, Spring Spanish 3
Cultural Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
AN/CU 338 - Barcelona: The Culinary City English 3
CU 351 - Food as an Expression of Culture Fall, Spring English 3
CU 351B - Food as an Expression of Culture Fall, Spring Spanish 3
CU/AH 331 - Imagining Medieval Culture: The Communicative Power of Medieval Images Fall, Spring English 3
CU/IB 348 - Cultural Heritage: Business and Strategies Spring English 3
CU/PS 326 - Dialogues on Difference Fall, Spring English 3
FS/CU 321 - Film and the City Fall, Spring English 3
Economics
Course Name Term Language Credits
EC 341 - The Economic Effects of Spain's EU Membership Fall, Spring English 3
EC 342 - European Regional Economies Fall, Spring English 3
IB/EC 441 - Spain's Economic Development and the EU Fall, Spring English 3
PO/EC 210 - Introduction to the European Union Fall, Spring English 3
SO/EC 340 - Globalized Economy and Migration Fall, Spring English 3
Education
Course Name Term Language Credits
ED/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Education Fall, Spring English 3
Environmental Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
GE/ES 311 - Mediterranean Environment Fall, Spring English 3
GE/ES 320 - Mediterranean Oceanography Fall, Spring English 3
GT/ES 339 - The Climate Crisis: Global Perspectives, Mediterranean Precedents Fall, Spring English 3
GT/ES 361 - Science & Society: A European Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
SO/ES 352 - Sustainability: Challenges and Responses Fall, Spring English 3
Finance
Course Name Term Language Credits
IB/FI 355 - International Finance Management Fall, Spring English 3
Film Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
FS/CU 321 - Film and the City Fall, Spring English 3
FS/HP 340A - Contemporary Spanish Film Fall, Spring English 3
FS/HP 340B - Contemporary Spanish Film Spring Spanish 3
Geography
Course Name Term Language Credits
GE/ES 311 - Mediterranean Environment Fall, Spring English 3
GE/ES 320 - Mediterranean Oceanography Fall, Spring English 3
Global Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
GT/ES 339 - The Climate Crisis: Global Perspectives, Mediterranean Precedents Fall, Spring English 3
GT/ES 361 - Science & Society: A European Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
Hispanic Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
FS/HP 340A - Contemporary Spanish Film Fall, Spring English 3
FS/HP 340B - Contemporary Spanish Film Spring Spanish 3
HP/AN 345 - Catalan Cultural Studies Fall, Spring English 3
History
Course Name Term Language Credits
AE/HS 250 - Mediterranean History and Heritage Fall, Spring English 3
AH/HS 251 - Barcelona: The Cosmopolitan City Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
HS 215 - History of Europe: Building Contemporary Europe Fall, Spring English 3
HS 332 - War and Dictatorship in Spain Fall, Spring English 3
IR/HS 317 - The American Century: US Policy in Western Europe Fall, Spring English 3
SO/HS 333 - Discrimination and Persecution in Spain and the West Fall, Spring English 3
SO/PO/HS 331 - Understanding Contemporary Spain: Politics, Society, History Fall, Spring English 3
International Business
Course Name Term Language Credits
CU/IB 348 - Cultural Heritage: Business and Strategies Spring English 3
IB 320 - Strategic Management Fall, Spring English 3
IB 325 - Marketing Management Fall, Spring English 3
IB 334 - The Business of Sports in Europe Fall, Spring English 3
IB 343 - Business Ethics in an Intercultural Framework Fall, Spring English 3
IB 350 - International Marketing: A European Approach Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
IB 360 - Entrepreneurship: A European Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
IB/EC 441 - Spain's Economic Development and the EU Fall, Spring English 3
IB/FI 355 - International Finance Management Fall, Spring English 3
IR/IB 393 - Leading Across Cultures: Principles and Practice Fall, Spring English 3
Intercultural Communication
Course Name Term Language Credits
IC/CM 329 - Language, Culture and Communication: Hispanic Cultures and their Societies Fall, Spring, Summer Spanish 3
IC/PS 260 - Cross Cultural Psychology Fall, Spring English 3
Internship Seminar
Course Name Term Language Credits
ED/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Education Fall, Spring English 3
IN 395A - Internship Seminar Fall, Spring English 3
IN 395B - Internship Seminar Fall, Spring Spanish 3
SO/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Social Action Fall, Spring English 3
International Relations
Course Name Term Language Credits
IR 337 - The Arab World and the West Fall, Spring English 3
IR/HS 317 - The American Century: US Policy in Western Europe Fall, Spring English 3
IR/IB 393 - Leading Across Cultures: Principles and Practice Fall, Spring English 3
IR/PO 359 - Europe in Crisis Fall, Spring English 3
SO/PO/IR 347 - The Wall: Borders, Violence and Separation in the Contemporary World English 3
Literature
Course Name Term Language Credits
LT 252 - Travel Writing in Spain/Europe: Between Self and Other Fall, Spring English 3
LT 375 - Barcelona and the Latin American Literary Boom Fall, Spring Spanish 3
LT/CM 353 - Storytelling Fall, Spring English 3
Law
Course Name Term Language Credits
LW/CR 363 - Crime, Disorder, Policing and Justice: Spanish and European Perspectives Fall, Spring English 3
Management
Course Name Term Language Credits
MG 345 - Management Across Borders Fall, Spring English 3
PS/MG 322 - Organizational Behavior: Psychological Approaches in a European Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
Music
Course Name Term Language Credits
MS 201 - The Music of Spain: Diversity, Functionality and the Construction of Cultural Identity Fall, Spring Spanish 3
MS 215 - Introduction to Music: Learning to Listen Fall, Spring English 3
Photography
Course Name Term Language Credits
CM/PG 316 - Photojournalism Fall, Spring English 3
PG 328 - Understanding Photography: Decoding the Still Image Fall, Spring English 3
Political Science
Course Name Term Language Credits
IR/PO 359 - Europe in Crisis Fall, Spring English 3
PO 325 - Politics in Spain Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
PO 475 - Democracy in Western Europe Fall, Spring English 3
PO/CM 323 - Campaigning in Europe: From Propaganda to Political Marketing Fall, Spring English 3
PO/CM 335 - Media and Politics in Europe Fall, Spring English 3
PO/EC 210 - Introduction to the European Union Fall, Spring English 3
SO/PO/HS 331 - Understanding Contemporary Spain: Politics, Society, History Fall, Spring English 3
SO/PO/IR 347 - The Wall: Borders, Violence and Separation in the Contemporary World English 3
Psychology
Course Name Term Language Credits
CU/PS 326 - Dialogues on Difference Fall, Spring English 3
IC/PS 260 - Cross Cultural Psychology Fall, Spring English 3
PS 350 - Human Development in the Spanish Socio-Cultural Context Fall, Spring English 3
PS 410 - Cultural Perspectives in Psychology Fall, Spring English 3
PS/AN 340 - Self and Identity in a Postmodern World Fall, Spring English 3
PS/MG 322 - Organizational Behavior: Psychological Approaches in a European Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
Research Seminar
Course Name Term Language Credits
RE 496 - Research Methodology Seminar Fall, Spring English 4
RE 499 - Introduction to Research Module Fall, Spring English 1
Religious Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
RL/AH 350 - The Iberian Peninsula: Cultures and Religions Through the Arts Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
SO/RL 330 - Church and State in Spain from 1492 to the Present Fall, Spring English 3
Sociology
Course Name Term Language Credits
SO/AN 320A - Sports and Society in Spain Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
SO/AN 320B - Sports and Society in Spain Fall, Spring Spanish 3
SO/AN 360 - Banditry and Mafias in the Mediterranean Fall, Spring English 3
SO/EC 340 - Globalized Economy and Migration Fall, Spring English 3
SO/ES 352 - Sustainability: Challenges and Responses Fall, Spring English 3
SO/HS 333 - Discrimination and Persecution in Spain and the West Fall, Spring English 3
SO/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Social Action Fall, Spring English 3
SO/PO/HS 331 - Understanding Contemporary Spain: Politics, Society, History Fall, Spring English 3
SO/PO/IR 347 - The Wall: Borders, Violence and Separation in the Contemporary World English 3
SO/RL 330 - Church and State in Spain from 1492 to the Present Fall, Spring English 3
Spanish
Course Name Term Language Credits
SP 101 - Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad I Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 102 - Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad II Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 102I - Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad II Intensive Fall, Spring Spanish 7
SP 201 - Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad III Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 301 - Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad I Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 301I - Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad I Intensive Fall, Spring Spanish 7
SP 302 - Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad II Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 323 - Business Spanish: Emerging Independent Abroad Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 324 - Business Spanish: Independent Abroad Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 325 - Spanish for Global Health: Independent Abroad Fall, Spring Spanish 3
SP 342 - Spanish Grammar Through Composition: Independent Abroad Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 347 - Spanish Conversation: Emerging Independent Abroad Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 351 - Spanish Language in Context: Independent Abroad I Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 351I - Spanish Language in Context: Independent Abroad I Intensive Fall, Spring Spanish 7
SP 410 - Spanish for Heritage Speakers: Emerging Competent Abroad Fall, Spring Spanish 4
SP 444 - Creative Writing Workshop: Short Stories in Spanish Fall, Spring Spanish 3
SP 471 - Spanish Through Theater Fall, Spring Spanish 4
Urban Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
US/AH 230 - International Events in Barcelona: An Artistic Perspective Fall, Spring English 3
US/AH 330 - Architecture and Landscape in Barcelona Fall, Spring English 3
US/AH 360 - The City as a Place to Live: The Barcelona Experience Fall, Spring English 3
Women's Studies
Course Name Term Language Credits
WS/AN 336 - Gender and Culture in Spain and the Mediterranean Fall, Spring English 3
WS/CM 380 - 4th Wave Feminism Fall, Spring English 3

Partner Institution(s)

You may enroll in courses at the following local partner institutions. 

NOTE: The courses listed below are course offerings from previous years. These courses are not guaranteed to be offered in the coming semesters as IES has no control over the courses offered by partner institutions. 

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)

The Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona was established in the late 1960s and since then has become one of the most dynamic universities in Spain. Made up of more than 25 schools, faculties, and associated centers, it is the only real campus-based university in Barcelona. UAB requires a minimum enrollment of two courses.

UAB has two campuses in Barcelona. The courses that are offered at the Sant Pau (20 minutes by Metro from our Center) and Eixample (10 minutes walking from our Center) campuses are primarily in the disciplines of Business, Economics, Politics, and the Humanities. Courses are taught in English and Spanish. These campuses are located in the central area of the city of Barcelona.

Please note that registration for UAB courses takes place before the application deadline. Students interested in enrolling in UAB courses are encouraged to apply early.

University Courses in English

University Courses in Spanish (available upon request - please alert your program advisor if you are interested in courses in Spanish at UAB)

Universitat de Barcelona (UB)

Even though Universitat de Barcelona was founded in 1450, the present central building was not inaugurated until 1871 and is located in the city center. Today the university has four campuses in different parts of the city. UB is particularly interested in fostering international relations, and for many years has been the leader among European universities in a number of student exchanges.

UB offers an Estudios Hispánicos program taught in Spanish and English for students with intermediate and advanced levels of Spanish. These courses are offered only to international students and are based on Spanish and Latin American culture. Classes take place in the main UB campus located 10 minutes walking distance from the IES Abroad Barcelona Center.

Universitat de Barcelona: Estudios Hispánicos
University Courses in English

University Courses in Spanish

Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)

Universitat Pompeu Fabra was founded by the Catalonian government in 1990 and is a public institution. It is named after the scholar who established the grammar of the modern Catalan language, and enrolls approximately 10,000 Spanish and international students.

Courses are offered by different university departments and are taught in English and in Spanish. Course availability and language of instruction is dependent on the program you are enrolled in and your language level. UPF is a 15-minute commute by Metro or a 20-minute walk from our Center.

Please note that students interested in enrolling at UPF must register for a minimum of two courses.

Universitat Pompeu Fabra: ESCI International Business School
University Courses in English

University Courses in Spanish

Universitat Pompeu Fabra: Estudios Hispánicos and European Studies Program
University Courses in English 

University Courses in Spanish

Universitat Ramon Llull (URL)

Universitat Ramon Llull is a private school founded in 1990. At URL, courses are designed for Spanish students at the undergraduate level. Courses are taught in English and Spanish and are available to you in a variety of disciplines. Course availability and language of instruction is dependent on the program you are enrolled in and your language level. Classes are taught at different campuses, and range from a 10-minute walk to a 30-minute Metro ride from our Center.

Universitat Ramon Llull: IQS Business School
(AACSB Accredited Institution)
University Courses in English

Universitat Ramon Llull: School of Tourism and Hospitality Management Sant Ignasi
University Courses in English

Universitat Ramon Llull: La Salle Business School
University Courses in English

Universitat Ramon Llull: Blanquerna School of Communication and International Relations
University Courses in English

Universitat de Vic (UVic)

Universitat de Vic is an independent state-supported educational institution. It offers 32 bachelor’s degrees in the fields of Arts & Humanities, Science, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and Engineering. At UVIC, you can enroll in courses taught in English for international students. Courses are available to you in Business, Design, and Innovation. All courses take place in the BAU School of Design, located 20 minutes by Metro from the IES Abroad Barcelona Center.

University Courses in English

Internships

Interning while you study in Barcelona gives you a rewarding job experience with a wealth of long-lasting career benefits. You will:

  • Gain a better understanding of the real-life, everyday culture of your host country
  • Add global work experience and skills to your résumé or your application for graduate school
  • Improve your confidence

All of our internships are supervised and earn IES Abroad credit. You participate in a 3-credit seminar to complement the practical experience you gain during the internship.

Personalized Placements
Once you indicate your interest in an internship, we work with you to find the ideal internship placement that fulfills your academic and career goals. We’ve placed students with a wide variety of organizations and businesses. If we don’t currently work with a business or organization in your field of interest, we will search for a placement that’s right for you.

Placement Examples
Past students have interned in the following fields. Don’t see your field here? Just talk to your IES Abroad Advisor—we are always seeking out new opportunities for our students.

  • Business Development/ International Business
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Event Management
  • Health
  • International Relations
  • Language Teaching
  • Law
  • Marketing
  • Media & Communication
  • Not-for-Profit Organizations & NGOs
  • Psychology
  • Public Relations

Field Trips & Events

Even though your adventure starts in Barcelona, our field trips during fall and spring semesters take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. As part of orientation, you’ll participate in a study journey, which is included in your program cost. Additional field trips are partially subsidized by IES Abroad. 

Trips are organized by language level and conducted in English or Spanish accordingly. One of these trips is subsidized by IES Abroad. Additional DiscoverIES are partially subsidized by IES Abroad. Here are a few possible destinations:

The Basque Country & Navarre
4 Days | Fall & Spring
Discover the unique gastronomy of the Basque Country, learn from artisans who elaborate local delicacies, and attempt to create (with your own hands) the meals that make up this rich culinary tradition.

Costa Brava
3 Days | Fall & Spring
Visit Greek and Roman ruins, the medieval city of Girona, and the “dreamland” of Salvador Dalí between Barcelona and the French border.

Madrid
3 Days | Fall & Spring
Discover the vibrant capital of Spain! See the works of El Greco, Goya, and Velazquez first-hand in the world-famous Prado Museum.

South of France
3 days | Spring
Visit Carcassonne to learn about its rich history, and enjoy a boat ride nearby. Next, head to Lastours to see castles and the Fontfroide Abbey. The last stop is Perpignan, where you will have the chance to compare the difference between the Spanish Catalan and French Catalan cultures.

Valencia
3 days | Spring
Enjoy a guided tour around the city and make Paella, the most famous dish in Spain. Then visit the nearby town of Peñíscola to see the Papa Luna’s Castle, a medieval building constructed by Templar knights that was home to the Pope during the 13th century.

Montserrat
1 Day | Fall & Spring
Spend the day hiking the mountain of Montserrat and visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey.

Note: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.

Daily Life

Part of making you feel at home in Barcelona is doing our best to help you feel safe and cared for. Whether it is an orientation program that makes you feel prepared, housing that is well-located and comfortable, or our DiscoverIES that take you to places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.

Orientation

The program begins with an orientation that introduces you to the IES Abroad Barcelona staff, your fellow students, and the city of Barcelona. During the first week of the program, you will begin your language learning experience and participate in activities to meet and bond with others at the same language level.

You will also meet our Barcelona Cultural Companions or tutores culturales, who will join you on DiscoverIES and help you get to know the Spanish culture.

Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins right when you arrive and continues through the semester with activities focusing on academic and cultural adjustment. Detailed information about housing, public transportation, culture, health and safety, and other important topics are also covered.

A required study journey is included as an integral part of orientation. Previous study journeys have included Tarragona, where you will walk in the footsteps of the Ancient Romans. This study journey will allow you to meet your fellow classmates and IES Abroad staff.

Housing

We want to make sure that your greatest challenge is deciding which landmarks to see first or discovering the best café—not finding a place to live where you feel comfortable. We do our best to locate housing that is reflective of how the local students are living. Our goal is that when you leave Barcelona, it will feel like home.

Homestays – Normally, two or three IES Abroad students live in a home with local residents and students share a double room. You are provided two meals a day (breakfast and dinner) while the program is in session. Laundry and WiFi are included.

Residence Halls – You live with Spanish and/or other IES Abroad students. Rooms in residence halls are double and triple occupancy. Meal plans vary among the different halls. WiFi is included, and laundry facilities are available. Placements are limited, and an additional fee applies for this housing option.

Apartments – You live with three or four other IES Abroad students in double rooms. A Barcelona Cultural Companion or tutor cultural may also live in the apartment to help you with cultural integration. Apartments have fully equipped kitchens. Washing machines are available but dryers are not, as they are not commonly used in Spain. Placements are limited, and an additional fee applies for this housing option.

Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events

DiscoverIES

DiscoverIES are a unique blend of course-related and cultural field trips. With this hybrid experience, you have the ability to understand the culture in the context of your coursework.

With 60+ DiscoverIES per semester, you have the exciting opportunity to familiarize yourself with Barcelona through cultural activities led by IES Abroad Barcelona professors. Visit the city’s many influential buildings, learn about its one-of-a-kind history, and become part of the Spanish and Catalan culture.

DiscoverIES are also a great way to meet and spend time with other students on your program, as well as IES Abroad Barcelona staff and professors. These optional activities are either free or highly subsidized.

Some past examples of DiscoverIES may include:

  • Discover the Quadrat d’Or, or Golden Square, in a guided tour in the Eixample District, an exceptional area that focuses on Barcelona’s Modernist style (Art Noveau) at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century
  • Enjoy a Flamenco workshop, where you’ll learn a few basic dance steps, the history behind the dance and attire, and taste traditional Andalucían fare
  • Hike Tibidabo, the tallest mountain in Serra de Collserola, tour the Modernist and Neo-Gothic Sagrat Cor Temple, and visit the oldest amusement park in Spain
  • Visit an organic farm and learn about sustainability with an IES Abroad professor
  • Visit the aquarium at Delta de L’Ebre, the coastal lagoons on the southern shore (Encanyissada and Tancada), Trabucador Beach and Alfacs Bay, and the fishing harbor at Sant Carles de la Ràpita.

Volunteer Abroad

When you volunteer in Barcelona, you have the chance to make a difference in the local community while meeting new people and gaining a new perspective on the world. If you are passionate about volunteering abroad, just let the on-site staff know at the beginning of your term. Past volunteer opportunities in Barcelona include:

  • Entertain children at a cancer center
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen
  • Be a teaching assistant at a public school
  • Organize food drives at local supermarkets

Get to Know Your New City

Have Fun in the Sun

Spend time strolling and swimming under the sun along Barcelona's four miles of sandy beaches.

Hike Mount Juic

A climb up this hill offers spectacular views of the city. From here, you can also explore several great museums and the beautiful buildings from the 1992 Olympic Games.

Check Out Some Live Music

From huge festivals to hole-in-the-wall venues, playing everything from electronica to punk, there’s more to Barcelona’s music scene than its iconic Rumba Catalana.

Appreciate the Art

Home to numerous works by Pablo Picasso, the surreal sculptures of Joan Miró, and the fantastic, dreamlike architecture of Gaudi, there’s plenty of art—indoors and out—to inspire you.

Eat, Drink, and Eat Some More!

Catalan cuisine consists of savory stews, fresh seafood, delicious jamón, spicy potatoes, olives, and so much more. Wash it down with a cold orxata (a refreshing drink made from the tiger nut plant).

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.

Term: Spring 2020
Term Tuition Housing Insurance Total
Spring 2020 $15,435 $2,825 $230 $18,490
Term: Fall 2020
Term Tuition Housing Insurance Total
Fall 2020
Academic Year 		$15,445
$27,785 		$2,825
$5,650 		$230
$455 		$18,500
$33,890
The figures listed here show the base program fee. Click the “total” amount to see a detailed list of program costs.

Scholarships & Aid

Program-Specific Scholarships

Robert McNeill Need-Based International Business Scholarship
Up to $3,000; awarded to 2 students each year

This scholarship is named in honor of Robert McNeill, member of the IES Abroad Board of Directors for 25 years (6 years as Chairman). Open to students who have an interest in international business. Majors might include management, marketing, economics, finance, international relations, and social and behavioral sciences.

Dr. William Louis Gaines Need-Based History or International Relations Scholarship
Up to $1,875; awarded to 4-6 students each year

This scholarship is named in honor of Dr. William Louis Gaines, President of IES Abroad from 1974-1992. Dr. Gaines was dedicated to strengthening IES Abroad's academic framework, broadening the scope of IES Abroad locations, and securing the financial foundation of the organization.

Open to students majoring in History or International Relations.

Adelyn Dougherty Leander Need-Based Urban Issues Scholarship
Up to $3,000; awarded to 4-6 students each year

Open to students who have an interest in urban studies (a major in urban studies is not required).

William E. & Mary M. Dwyer Need-Based Spanish Scholarship
Ranges up to $1,000; awarded to 4-6 students each year

These scholarships are intended for students interested in studying in a Spanish-speaking country.

Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs

Learn More

$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from participating in an IES Abroad Program. This is why we commit more than $6 million to our scholarship and aid programs.
Learn more

Our Center

While in Barcelona, we want to ensure you have every opportunity to immerse yourself in new experiences. That’s why our IES Abroad Barcelona staff is committed to providing outstanding academic and student support services. We take care of the details, so you can soak up every moment of your Barcelona experience.

Located in the heart of beautiful Barcelona, the IES Abroad Center is located just off of the Plaza Catalunya, home to a number of shops and cafes, and within walking distance of many other Barcelona landmarks. Features include:

  • High-speed and wireless internet access
  • Multimedia classrooms
  • Study lounges with printers
  • Large outdoor terrace

Our Staff

Cèsar Alegre Alsina, Ph.D.

Center Director & AVP for Program Development

Dr. Cèsar Alegre Alsina has been the Director of our Barcelona programs since 2008. He is originally from Barcelona and speaks Spanish, Catalan, and English fluently. He brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education to IES Abroad, including a noteworthy teaching career in the United States, experience in student services, and a strong research portfolio. Before coming to IES Abroad, Dr. Alegre Alsina taught Spanish language, as well as Spanish and Hispanic Culture and Literature at Amherst College for 16 years. He is the author of a book on Hispanic Americans (Scholastic), and has contributed to the Encyclopedia of Hispanic Americans (BRG Oxford) and numerous articles and reviews in American and international journals. Dr. Alegre Alsina received his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Auburn University, his Master’s degree in Hispanic Literature at Auburn University, and his doctorate from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

IES Abroad Staff

IES Abroad Staff
Alex Walker
Assitant Director and Dean of Faculty

Jane Ewart
Head of Registration

Lorena Chinnici
Head of Customized Programs and Outside Courses

Samanta Ascaso
Academics Department Assistant

Natalia Gil
Academics Department Assistant

Ana Tarife
Head of Internship, Service Learning, and Volunteering

María Paéz
Internship, Service Learning and Volunteering Specialist

Sofia Franco
Internship, Service Learning and Volunteering Assistant

Maria Romero
Dean of Spanish and Assistant Dean of Faculty

Laura Vazquez
Language Faculty Advisor of Educational Technology

María Mejías
Language Faculty Advisor

Ignasi Pérez
Area Studies Faculty Advisor

Olga Sánchez
Senior Director of Student Affairs

Noemí Polo
Student Affairs Coordinator - Health and Safety, Homestays

Ferran Terés
Student Affairs Coordinator - Apartments

Beatriz Moya
Student Affairs Assistant

Marija Vasiljevic
Emergency and After Hours Student Affairs Specialist

Cora Galavis
Emergency and After Hours Student Affairs Specialist

Salvador Ortiz
Head of Administration and Human Resources

Pilar Gracia
Administration Coordinator and DiscoverIES Coordinator

Elizabeth Ferreiro
Student Activities and DiscoverIES Specialist

Beatriz Taberner
Center Manager

Conchi Villar
Administration Officer

Ilaria Gambarelli
Administrator Assistant and Center Video Production

Barcelona Center
Barcelona Center
Barcelona Center
Classroom at IES Abroad Barcelona Center
Bulletin board and clocks on wall at IES Abroad Barcelona Center
Mural of students in study lounge at IES Abroad Barcelona Center
Hallway with "Quite Study Carrels" written above door
Classroom featuring a painting of the Barcelona skyline at IES Abroad Center
Internships Office at IES Abroad Barcelona Center
Computer Room at IES Abroad Barcelona Center
Hallway/study lounge at Center
Seating area at IES Abroad Barcelona Center
Staff Desks at IES Abroad Center
Vending Area in Student Lounge at IES Abroad Barcelona Center

Health and Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter what time zone you’re in.
 

How We Support You

We plan for "what if" so that you don't have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Learn more about the support you can expect to receive on our programs, including:

  • International health insurance through CISI in the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional
  • 24/7 emergency support whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city
  • Location-specific health and safety information presented at orienation by on-site staff
  • TripTracker system allowing you to share independent travel plans in case you need to be contacted swiftly in a crisis
  • A mandatory cell phone policy so that you can be contacted locally and receive any emergency updates via call or text
  • Crisis drills so that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise
  • And more!

LEARN MORE
 

Health & Safety Resources

You safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home.

Take note of ways you can maintain your health and stay safe abroad while reviewing our resources, including:

  • IES Abroad MAP for Student Health, Safety & Crisis Management
  • Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
  • IES Abroad Student Blogs on Safety and Mental Health
  • And more!

BROWSE RESOURCES
 

Summer 2020 & Fall 2020 Refund Policy

A core philosophy of our health & safety procedures is that we plan for the what ifs so that you don't have to. That includes the development of our refund policy for Summer 2020 and Fall 2020, which allows you to still plan to study abroad or intern, knowing that if for some reason you cannot participate, your money will be fully refunded.

Don't put your dreams on hold just because the world is unknown. 

LEARN MORE

Apply NowApplication RequirementsView Catalog

AT A GLANCE

Includes Optional: 
Part-Time Internship
Language prerequisites: 
None
Language of Instruction: 
English
Spanish
Credits: 
15-19 per semester (5-6 courses)
Housing: 
Apartment
Homestay
Residence Hall
Estimated Cost:
$18,490
Upcoming Program Dates:
Spring 2020
January 7 - April 25
-
Fall 2020
August 31 - December 17
Upcoming Application Deadlines:
Fall 2020 - June 04, 2020
Academic Year - June 04, 2020
Spring 2021 - October 09, 2020

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