Barcelona - Political Science & International Relations
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Barcelona - Political Science & International Relations
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 Political Science and International Relations 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.
- 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)
*You must register for one course within the disciplines of Political Science & International Relations
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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 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 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| IB/FI 355 - International Finance Management | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 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 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 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 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/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 - 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)
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 & Spanish
- Art History
- Architecture
- Business Administration & Management
- Communications
- Economics & Finance
- History
- International Business
- International Finance
- Literature
- Marketing
- Political Sciences
- Sociology
- Urban Studies
For a full list of UAB course offerings, please see the UAB section on the Liberal Arts & Business Academics page.
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 & Spanish
- Art History
- Economics & Finance
- Food Sciences & Nutrition
- History
- International Business
- Literature
- Management
- Marketing
- Political Sciences
- Sociology
For a full list of UB course offerings, please see the UB section on the Liberal Arts & Business Academics page.
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.
University Courses in English
- Archaeology
- Art History
- Business Administration & Management
- Communications
- Economics & Finance
- Environmental Sciences
- Film Studies
- Gender Studies
- Health Studies & Neuroscience
- History
- Law & Criminal Studies
- Math & Statistics
- Marketing
- Political Sciences & Government
- Sociology
For a full list of UPF course offerings, please see the UPF section on the Liberal Arts & Business Academics page.
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.
University Courses in English & Spanish
- Accounting
- Anthropology & Sociology
- Business Administration & Managment
- Economics & Finance
- International Business
- Law
- Marketing
- Political Sciences
- Public Relations
- Tourism
- Urban Studies
For a full list of URL course offerings, please see the URL section on the Liberal Arts & Business Academics page.
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
- Business Administration & Management
- Communications & Psychology
- Design & Fashion
- Innovation
- Marketing
For a full list of UVIC course offerings, please see the UVIC section on the Liberal Arts & Business Academics page.
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. 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 single and double 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 will most likely live in the apartment to help you with cultural integration. Apartments have fully equipped kitchens, WiFi is included, and meals are not provided. 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
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
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 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 Amherst.
IES Abroad Barcelona Staff
Alex Walker
Assitant Director and Dean of Faculty
Jane Ewart
Head of Registration
Ana Tarife
Head of Internship, Service Learning, and Volunteering
Olga Sánchez
Senior Director of Student Affairs
Salvador Ortiz
Head of Administration and Human Resources
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 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!
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!
Fall 2021
We all know that Fall 2021 is going to look a bit different from other study abroad terms, but that doesn’t mean it still won’t be the most incredible semester of your life!
We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live and learn abroad (and have some fun along the way!). Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Fall 2021 Health & Safety page.
Academics & Partner Universities
Know that you’ll be learning from the best of the best this fall. On our program, you’ll have the option to take courses taught by world-class IES Abroad faculty at our Center or at any of the partner universities (UAB, UB, UPF, URL, and UVic).
IES Abroad Courses Available in Fall 2021:
- AH223A Great 20th Century Artists of Catalonia: Picasso, Dalí and Miró
- AH/US330 Architecture and Landscape in Barcelona
- AH/US360 The City as a Place to Live: The Barcelona Experience
- AN/SO320A Sports and Society in Spain
- AR225 Art and Design
- CM327 Language, Culture and Communication: The Spanish Perspective
- CM/PO335 Media and Politics in Europe
- CM353 Storytelling
- CR/LW363 Crime, Disorder, Policing and Justice: Spanish and European Perspectives
- CU351 Food as an Expression of Culture
- EC341 The Economic Effects of Spain's EU Membership
- EC342 European Regional Economies
- ES/GE320 Mediterranean Oceanography
- ES/GT361 Science and Society: A European Perspective
- FI/IB355 International Finance Management (ONLINE)
- HP/FS340B Contemporary Spanish Film
- HS317 The American Century
- HS/SO/PO331 Understanding Contemporary Spain: Politics, Society, History
- IB320 Strategic Management
- IB325 Marketing Management
- IB334 The Business of Sport in Europe
- IB350 International Marketing
- LT375 Barcelona and the Latin American Literary Boom
- MG/PS322 Organizational Behavior: Psychological Approaches in a European Perspective
- PG328 Understanding Photography: Decoding the Still Image
- PO475 Democracy in Western Europe
- PS/IC260 Cross Cultural Psychology
- PS343 Psychology of Health and Well-Being (ONLINE)
- SP 101 Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad I
- SP 102 Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad II
- SP 201 Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad III
- SP 301 Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad I
- SP 302 Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad II
- SP 351 Spanish Language in Context: Independent Abroad I
- SP 444 Creative Writing Workshop: Short Stories in Spanish
Explore all the course options from our partner universities and find IES Abroad course syllabi on the “Academics” tab.
Health & Safety Protocols
We’re making sure that your learning experience is a safe one so you can focus on the topic at hand. So, to enhance effective social/physical distancing, IES Abroad is taking proactive measures in the classroom, including:
- limiting class enrollment sizes
- adjusting space layout and room choice
- and promoting student/faculty use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Learn more about our health and safety measures for Fall 2021.
Housing
You’ll stay in a clean, comfortable apartment or residence hall where we’ve taken the utmost safety measures, including single occupancy rooms. At this time, homestays will not be offered through IES Abroad programs this fall. Learn more about the overarching housing policies for Fall 2021.
Field Trips
Across all IES Abroad programs, field trips will stay local and regional this fall. Your fields trips will all take place in Spain, which means you’ll get fully immersed in the culture(s) you came for! Possible trips include:
- Tarragona
- Figueres - Dalí Museum
- Besalu
- Montserrat
- Delta del Ebro
Internships
Our optional, part-time internships have always been designed to give you experience in what it's really like to work in Barcelona. For Fall 2021, part-time internships will be offered online. That said, we’re working hard to be able to offer in-person opportunities that align with our health and safety standards. You can count on having a part-time internship this fall—definitely virtually and potentially in-person—to help you gain a professional edge this semester.
Our Center
Our Center in Barcelona is your go-to spot for classes, student services, and information. Serving as your campus away from campus, you can feel safe going to class or checking in with an IES Abroad staff member because, at a minimum, IES Abroad Centers will undergo daily cleaning and disinfection by professional cleaning services.
Cost
Cost details for Fall 2021 can be found on the Cost tab. Be sure to click through the linked total to view a thorough cost breakdown PDF. Consider those 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.
Go Ahead & Get Started…With a Refund Policy that has your Back
As a mission-driven, not-for-profit, we are guided by two priorities as we navigate Fall 2021: to leave the door open for your opportunity to study abroad, and to strive to keep you safe and healthy. So, what’s our advice? Give yourself the chance to have an incredible adventure—even if it’s a bit different than planned!—and know we’re right alongside you as the details unfold.
And thanks to our Fall 2021 Refund Policy, there’s no commitment just yet. What’s more, once you start an application, you’ll be in the loop and hear directly from us if any changes are made to your program.
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