You are here
Barcelona - Liberal Arts & Business
We want you to feel at home in Barcelona, so we do everything we can to help you integrate into life in the city—from your housing in an apartment, residence hall, or homestay, to our highly subsidized DiscoverIES, which are a unique blend of course-related trips and cultural field trips. We offer more than 60 each semester!
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
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, Business, and other topics 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.
Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following program components. You take 15-19 credits per semester. Language courses are taught in Spanish.
- 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)
- Partner university courses
- For international students only (optional, 3 credits each)
- With local students (optional, 2-3 credits each)
- Internship placement and seminar (optional, 3 credits)
Courses
These courses are taught at the IES Abroad Center by local faculty.
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.
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AE/HS 250 - Mediterranean History and Heritage | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| IB/AH 369 - Management of Cultural Heritage | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AN/CU 338 - Barcelona: The Culinary City | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| AN/GS 215 - Sexuality and Gender | 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 - Women and Culture in Spain and the Mediterranean | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AR 225 - Art and Design | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT/AH 324 - Modernism in Architecture and Design in a Comparative Perspective | Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| FS/CM 215 - Visual Storytelling | 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 |
| MK/CM 345 - Digital Marketing and Communications | 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LW/CR 363 - Crime, Disorder, Policing and Justice: Spanish and European Perspectives | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 101 - Catalan Language For Beginners | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 3 |
| CT 101 - Catalan Language for Beginners | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AN/CU 338 - Barcelona: The Culinary City | Fall, Spring | 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 210 - The Business of Wine: From Vine to Glass | 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 |
| 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ED/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Education | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| SO/ES 360 - Designing the Sustainable City | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| IB/FI 355 - International Finance Management | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| FS/CM 215 - Visual Storytelling | English | 3 | |
| 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 | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE/ES 311 - Mediterranean Environment | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| GE/ES 320 - Mediterranean Oceanography | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AN/GS 215 - Sexuality and Gender | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| FS/HP 340A - Contemporary Spanish Film | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| FS/HP 340B - Contemporary Spanish Film | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 3 |
| HP/AN 345 - Catalan Cultural Studies | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/IB 210 - The Business of Wine: From Vine to Glass | English | 3 | |
| 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/AH 369 - Management of Cultural Heritage | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| LW/CR 363 - Crime, Disorder, Policing and Justice: Spanish and European Perspectives | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| MK/CM 345 - Digital Marketing and Communications | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 343 - Psychology, Health and Well-Being: Moving Beyond Just Treating Mental Disorders | 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| RE 496 - Research Methodology Seminar | Fall, Spring | English | 4 |
| 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 |
| 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/ES 360 - Designing the Sustainable City | 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 | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| SO/RL 330 - Church and State in Spain from 1492 to the Present | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| WS/AN 336 - Women and Culture in Spain and the Mediterranean | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| WS/CM 380 - 4th Wave Feminism | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
Partner Institution(s)
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 Autònoma 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.
The courses that are offered at the Sant Pau (20 minutes by Metro from our Center) campus, located in the central area of Barcelona, are primarily in the disciplines of Business, Economics, Politics, and the Humanities. Courses are taught in English and Spanish.
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
- AH3025 Spanish Contemporary Art
- AH3026 Spanish Art and Cultural Heritage
- AH3040 The Seven Wonders of Spain
- AT3029 Barcelona: City Planning and Architecture
- AT3038 Modernism: Art Nouveau Architecture Sketched and Explained
- BS2016 Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation
- BS2017 E-commerce and Online Businesses
- BS2042 Doing Business in Emerging Markets
- BS2043 Business in Action: Local Companies in a Global World
- CM3048 Communication and Gender
- CM3049 Intercultural Communication
- EC2004 Strategic Behavior in Business and Economics
- EC2006 International Economics
- EC2012 Understanding the European Economy
- EC2018 The Political Economy of European Integration
- EC2024 The Creative Economy: Innovation on the 21st Century
- EC2025 Behavior and Incentives in Economics: The Case of Soccer
- EC3035 Inequality, Poverty and Globalization
- FI2008 International Finance
- HS3023 Spanish Civilization and Culture
- IB2007 International Business
- LT3044 The Image of Barcelona in Literature
- MG2005 Cross-Cultural Management
- MG2010 Strategic Management of the Firm
- MG2041 Managerial Skills for International Business
- MG2044 Human Resources Management: Finding Your Place in Organizations
- MK2009 International Marketing Strategies
- PO2019 Politics, War and Economy in the Age of Globalization
- PO2021 Mediterranean Politics
- PO3028 Cultures Without State: The Case of Catalonia
- PO3036 Politics of the Developing World (Spring)
- PO/IR3043 Geopolitics and International Relations
- US3022 An Urban Approach to Spain and Europe
- US3037 Urban Interventions: Graffiti and Public Sculpture
University Courses in Spanish (available upon request - please alert your program advisor if you are interested in courses in Spanish at UAB)
- AH3045 Spanish Art
- HS3024 Spanish Civilization and Culture (Spring)
- MK3031 International Marketing Strategies
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, based on Spanish and Latin American culture, that is taught in Spanish and English for students with intermediate and advanced levels of Spanish. UB also offers a Food Studies and Gastronomy program taught in English, which examines local gastronomy through the lens of business, nutrition, sustainability, and architecture. These programs and all Spanish and Latin American culture, media, business and finance courses are located at a central UB campus, which is a 10-minute walk from the IES Abroad Barcelona Center.
University Courses in English - Estudios Hispánicos
- CM25 New Topics in Spanish Media
- CM30 Intercultural Communication
- EC06 Spain's Economy Highlights
- FI20 Corporate Finance
- FI21 International Financial Management
- HS14 Barcelona: The Mediterranean Metropolis
- HS/AH31 Understanding Spain through History and Art
- IB22 International Business and Management
- IB28 Sustainable Business Management
- MG24 International Operations Management
- MG27 Critical Skills for Managers of the Future
- MK19 Consumer Behavior
- MK23 International Marketing
- PO03 Spanish Politics
University Courses in English - Food & Gastronomy
- AG/ES31 Food Systems and Sustainability in Spain
- HS/GT35 Food through the Ages: The Global Epicurus
- IB/ET33 Marketing and Entrepreneurship in Food
- NT/CU34 Mediterranean Nutrition and Gastronomy
- SO/CU36 Food and Migration
University Courses in Spanish
- AH17 Art in Spain
- CU26 Catalonia: Language, Culture and Society
- HS02 Spain and Europe: Origins and Evolution
- LT18 Barcelona: A Meeting Place for Spanish and Latin-American Arts
- PO/SO16 Contemporary Spain: Society and Institutions
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. UPF requires a minimum enrollment of two courses.
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.
Universitat Pompeu Fabra: ESCI International Business School
University Courses in English
- BS51281 International Expansion (Spring)
- EC80126BP International Economics
- FI51400 Corporate Finance
- FI51500 International Finance
- FI51728IBP Financial Risk Management (Spring)
- FI51786 International Business Finance
- IB51636BP Doing Business in Europe
- IB51787 Programming and Big Data
- MG40103 People Management (Fall)
- MG40207 International Project Management (Spring)
- MG51634 International Management
- MG51282 International Team Management (Spring)
- MG51290 Public Relations and Customer Relationship Management
- MG51746 Cross-Cultural Management and Intercultural Communication (Spring)
- MK51752 Consumer Behavior (Spring)
- MK51242 Pricing Policies
- MK51250 Market Research I (Spring)
- MK51279 International Marketing (Spring)
- MK51669BP New Trends in International Marketing
- MK51707BP Applied Market Research in the Digital Era
- MK51711BP Strategic Consumer Insights
University Courses in Spanish
Universitat Pompeu Fabra: Barcelona Program for Interdisciplinary Studies (BaPIS)
University Courses in English
- AH/GS51816 Art and Gender in Contemporary Spain
- CM/JR51818 Globalized world, globalized problems? Creative proposals from public service television worldwide
- CU/CS51819 Artificial Intelligence, Creativity, and the Arts
- EC51813 Circular Economy
- ES51811 Globalization, Human Development and Sustainability: Politics and Policies in the framework of the 2030 agenda
- ES/MG51817 The Impact Journey: (Un)Sustainability, Climate Emergency, Authentic Leadership
- FS/HP51809 Cinematic Creativity in Spain: Authorship, Industry, Politics
- GS 51798 Gender-based Violence and International Protection of Human Rights
- GS51832 Gender, Sexuality and Diversity: Past and Present
- GS/SO51802 LGTB+: Exploring Identities and Diversity
- HS51146 Barcelona the City and its History
- HS51805 The Jews in Spain: History, Heritage and Memory
- HS/GT51858 Understanding Globalization: Global Issues in Historical Perspective
- IB51602 Global Marketing and Culture of FC Barcelona
- LW51831 Five Challenges for the Future of Sport Global Governance
- LW/CS51801 Innovation and the Law. How Technology Changes the Legal System
- MG/SO51804 The Collectivity Revolution
- MT/ST51792 Analytics for Social Good
- NS51812 Mind, Brain and Machines
- NS51867 Psychopharmacology
- RA51859 From Punchline to the Laugh Track: Television Sitcom Writing & Directing Workshop
University Courses in Spanish
- CM51862 Communication and Social Responsibility in the Era of Disinformation and Fake News
- CM/PO51806 What is News? Truth, Lies and Hegemony
- ES/EN51814 Climate Emergency, Environmentalism and Energy Transition
- LT51840 Literary texts: Interpret, Dialogue, Create
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
- AC2006 Cost Accounting (Fall)
- BS2005 International Trade (Fall)
- FI53018 Financial Mathematics (Fall)
- FI53155 Introduction to Corporate Finance
- LW2003 Business Law (Fall)
- MG2001 Human Resources Management (Fall)
- MG3001 Sales Management (Fall)
- MG3006 Innovation Management (Fall)
- MG53009 Organizational Behavior (Spring)
- MK53005 Marketing (Spring)
Universitat Ramon Llull: La Salle Business School
University Courses in English
- AC003 Accounting Principles I (Spring)
- EC012 Macroeconomics
- EC200 International Economics and the Digital Era (Fall)
- EC202 Economic Growth and Innovation (Fall)
- FI008 Principles of Finance (Fall)
- FI013 Corporate and International Finance (Fall)
- FI430 Money and Investment (Spring)
- IB101 Online Consumer Behavior (Fall)
- IB371 International Business (Fall)
- IB400 Sports Business (Fall)
- IB502 Mobile App Management (Fall)
- IB503 Social Enrepreneurship
- MG017 Principles of Operations (Fall)
- MG/HS021 Modern Thought and Economic History (Spring)
- MG038 Supply Chain Management (Spring)
- MG044 Sales Management (Fall)
- MG052 Transfer of New Technology into the Economy (Spring)
- MG060 Sports and Technology Management (Fall)
- MG381 Leading Teams and Organizations (Spring)
- MG422 Major Sport Event Management (Spring)
- MK100 Digital Marketing Strategies
- MK103 International Digital Marketing
- MK104 Marketing Services in Digital Era (Spring)
- MK394 Sport Marketing (Fall)
- PR423 Sports Media and Public Relations (Spring)
- US204 Emerging Technologies and Smart Cities (Spring)
Universitat Ramon Llull: Blanquerna School of Communication and International Relations
University Courses in English
- EC752 International Trade
- IR750 Theory of International Relations (Spring)
- LW192 Introduction to Law (Spring)
- PO191 Introduction to Political Science (Spring)
- PO391 The EU System
- PO407 Political Science
- SO193 Sociology (Spring)
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
- BS21106 Start-Up Creation
- DS21103 Design Thinking: How to Identify New Business Opportunities using Creativity
- DS/MK21101 Brand Design
- EC21112 International Economy: Emerging Marketings and Global Business
- IB/IR21107 Leadership, Business and Society
- MG21110 Retail Management (Spring)
- MK/FH21102 Marketing and Fashion
- MK21104 Digital Business
- MK21107 Global Marketing
- MK21108 Luxury Marketing (Spring)
- PS/CM21111 Psychology of Communication and Publicity (Spring)
Internships
Did you know that, while in Barcelona, you can intern as part of your study abroad experience? With a part-time internship, you’ll gain global work experience that will increase your job readiness and give you an advantage after graduation. With an internship, you will:
- Take an important step in your career development by navigating the professional world with our support.
- Learn more about yourself both personally and professionally and build confidence in the process.
- Experience what working in Barcelona is really like and gain an authentic understanding of the workplace culture while developing real, applicable job skills that will bolster your career readiness.
- Begin building an international network by making connections with coworkers and peers.
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 for a greater understanding of work life in your host country.
Personalized Job Placements
Once you indicate your interest in an internship, we work with you to find the ideal placement that satisfies your interests and goals. We’ve placed students with a wide variety of organizations and businesses. If we don’t currently offer placements in your field of interest, we will look for one that’s right for you.
Placement Examples
Past students have interned in the following fields. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Just talk to your IES Abroad Advisor—we are always looking for new internship 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
*High level of Spanish required
Field Trips & Events
Even though your adventure starts in Barcelona, our field trips during fall and spring semesters take you outside the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country and beyond. 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.
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 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 Velázquez firsthand 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.
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 prepares you for what’s ahead, housing that is well-located and comfortable, or the field trips that take you to places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.
Orientation
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to help you prepare for your IES Abroad experience. Our orientation introduces you to the IES Abroad Barcelona staff, your fellow students, and the city of Barcelona. Orientation continues throughout 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. In previous study journeys, students have visited Tarragona where they walked in the footsteps of the Ancient Romans. This two-day 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 or are in a single room. You are provided two meals a day (breakfast and dinner) while the program is in session. Laundry and Wi-Fi are included.
Premium Residence Halls - Rooms in premium residence halls are single occupancy. Meal plans are not included but optional to purchase once you arrive onsite. The premium option includes a shared kitchen space, laundry included, common lounge areas, and gym facilities. Wi-Fi is included and an additional fee applies to this housing option.
Residence Halls – Rooms in residence halls are single occupancy. Meal plans are not included but available for purchase onsite. There are no kitchen facilities in this housing option. Wi-Fi is included, and laundry facilities are coin operated. An additional fee applies for this housing option.
Student Apartments - You live with up to 12 other IES Abroad students in a single or double room. The student apartment offers the communal vibes of a residence hall with the comfort of an apartment. Apartments have fully equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi is included, and meals are not included but optional meal plans are available for purchase onsite. Laundry is coin operated and an additional fee applies to this housing option.
Apartments – You live with up to 7 other IES Abroad students in single or double rooms in a typical Barcelona style apartment. Apartments have fully equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi is included, and meals are not provided. Washing machines are available for free but dryers may not be, as they are not commonly used in Spain. An additional fee applies for this housing option.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events
Take advantage of the cultural events we organize in Barcelona, such as:
- Walking Tours
- Flamenco Workshops
- Soccer Games
- Cooking Workshops
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:
- Discovering 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.
- Enjoying a Flamenco workshop, where you’ll learn a few basic dance steps, the history behind the dance and attire, and taste traditional Andalucían fare.
- Hiking Tibidabo, the tallest mountain in Serra de Collserola, tour the Modernist and Neo-Gothic Sagrat Cor Temple, and visiting the oldest amusement park in Spain.
- Visiting an organic farm and learning about sustainability with an IES Abroad professor.
- Visiting 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:
- Engaging with and supporting kids and their families at a children’s hospital (bilingual Spanish and FBI Background Check required)
- Volunteering at a soup kitchen
- Being a teaching assistant at a public school
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 Montjuïc
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.
Scholarships & Aid
Featured Scholarships
Robert McNeill Need-Based International Business Scholarship
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
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
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
These scholarships are intended for students interested in studying in a Spanish-speaking country.
Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Our Center
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
- 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 Amherst.
IES Abroad Barcelona Staff
Alex Walker
Associate Center Director and Dean of Faculty
Jane Ewart
Head of Academic Administration and Registration
Lorena Chinnici
Head of Customized Programs & Outside Courses
Natalia Gil
Academic Affairs Assistant
Maria Romero Serrano
Dean of Spanish & Assistant Dean of Faculty
Raquel Medina
Dean of Area Faculty
Maria Mejias
Language Faculty Advisor
Laura Vazquez
Faculty Advisor of Education Technology
Ana Tarife Conde
Head of Internship, Community-Based Learning & Volunteering Programs
Maria Paez Moriana
Internship, Community-Based Learning & Volunteering Specialist
Sofia Franco Rodriguez
Internship, Community-Based Learning & Volunteering Assistant
Olga Sanchez Cuenca
Senior Director of Student Affairs
Noemi Polo Contel
Senior Student Affairs Coordinator
Ferran Teres Olivella
Senior Student Affairs Coordinator
Sara Andrejevic
Student Affairs Assistant
María Leal
Student Success Coordinator
Cora Galavis
Emergency & After Office Hours Student Affairs Specialist
Marija Vasiljevic
Emergency & After Office Hours Student Affairs Specialist
Salvador Ortiz
Head of Administration & Human Resources
Beatriz Taberner Rodriguez
Center Manager
Pilar Gracia Male
Senior HR Generalist
Ilaria Gambarelli
Administration Assistant & Center Video Production
Concepcion Villar
Administration Assistant
Health & 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.
In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—such as social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel only, and apartment or residence hall housing (no homestays) that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary.
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 orientation 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!
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!
Latest from Barcelona
Contact a Past Student
From budgeting tips to housing insight, IES Abroad Ambassadors volunteer their study abroad and internship experiences and advice.
