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Salamanca - Psychology
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Academics
Our mission is simple: 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 Psychology, Spanish language, as well as other topics, through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors and course options at prestigious Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class.
You enroll in 15–19 credits per semester, and all courses are worth 3 credits unless otherwise specified. Credits awarded for supplementary university courses vary.
Craft your own academic experience by selecting from the following required and optional components:
- IES Abroad Spanish language course (required, 3-7 credits)
- IES Abroad Psychology courses in English (optional, 3 credits each)
- IES Abroad area studies courses in English (optional, 3 credits each)
- Psychology courses at UPSA
- Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca courses in English (optional, 3 credits each)
- Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca courses in Spanish (optional, required language placement minimum of SP303, 1.5-4 credits each)
- Education Internship placement and seminar in English/Spanish (optional, 3 credits, Spring)
- Community-based learning placement and seminar in Spanish* (optional, required language placement minimum of SP303, 3 credits, Fall)
*Please note that community-based learning placement options vary depending on level of Spanish.
Courses
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/LT 360 - Spanish Avant-Garde Literature: Poetry, Drama & the Unconscious | Spring | English | 3 |
| CU/SO 270 - The Cultures of Spain: Understanding Past, Present and Future | Fall | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ED/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Education | Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ED/IN 395 - Internship Seminar: Education | Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/LT 360 - Spanish Avant-Garde Literature: Poetry, Drama & the Unconscious | Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS 343 - Psychology, Health & Well-Being: Beyond Just Treating Mental Disorders | Spring | English | 3 |
| PS 355 - Psychology of Disability: A Closer Look at Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities | Fall | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CU/SO 270 - The Cultures of Spain: Understanding Past, Present and Future | Fall | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| SP 101I - Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad I | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 7 |
| SP 201I - Spanish Language in Context: Novice Abroad I | Fall | Spanish | 7 |
| SP 301I - Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 7 |
| SP 303 - Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Independent Abroad III | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 5 |
| SP 325 - Spanish for Global Health: Independent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 3 |
| SP 351 - Spanish Language in Context: Independent Abroad I | Spanish | 5 | |
| SP 353 - Spanish Language in Context: Independent Abroad III | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 5 |
| SP 401 - Spanish Language in Context: Emerging Competent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | Spanish | 5 |
Partner Institution(s)
Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca (UPSA)
www.upsa.es
UPSA was originally founded in the 13th century but closed in the mid-1800s. In 1940, the school was re-established and has continued to broaden its academic offerings with new opportunities for degrees and fields of study.
Courses
The following English-taught courses in psychology are confirmed for 2019-20:
Solution Focused Brief Coaching (Fall | Spring 2020)
In this class, we will learn how to conduct conversations that are most useful to clients as they work to achieve their goals witin a brief period of time. We will learn the whole brief coaching process, from the first to the last sessions, using the tools taken from the Solution Focused Therapy Model. We will learn how a coaching conversation may be guided to be useful to clients and that brief coaching can be adapted for use in a variety of settings: educational, organizational, health. This course is aimed at those who are involved in helping professions.
By the end of this course, students will have:
- Knowledge and understanding of the Solution Focused Model
- Knowledge of the coaching process (and its limitations)
- Application of basic tools to conduct a brief coaching process
- The knowledge to adapt the tools learned to a variety of settings (organizational, education...)
- The knowledge to refer clients to other services when necessary
Affective and Sexual Development (Spring)
We will discuss the fundamental aspects of human development from infancy to adulthood and old age, mainly emphasizing the development and deterioration of the processes that are characteristic of each phase. The key concepts to be analyzed are focused on the affective, social and sexual development of the individual, pathology and improvement of the functions.
Service Learning
Social Service Organizations (Fall Only)
Participating in a community-based learning experience in Salamanca is an opportunity to give back while gaining a much deeper understanding of the city’s culture and society. Working alongside local people toward a common goal, you experience firsthand some of the social and political issues that affect Salamanca, while contributing your skills toward a community-driven solution. A community-based learning experience consists of time spent with a local organization, accompanied by an academic, for-credit community-based learning seminar. Through the seminar you have structured time for reflection and discussion, and even research, on the issues of your host community. Community-based learning placements are only available in Spanish. Possible placements may include organizations focusing on disaster relief, immigrant services, and social and political advocacy. Your eligibility will be determined by the IES Abroad Language Placement Exam.
Internships
Did you know that, while in Salamanca, 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 Salamanca 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 student 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.
- Education (Spring only)
Field Trips & Events
Even though your adventure starts in Salamanca, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of the Iberian Peninsula. Each trip is fully or partially subsidized by IES Abroad. Here are a few possible destinations.
Segovia
1 Day | Fall & Spring
Segovia is known for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture and for having one of the longest and best preserved Roman aqueducts in all of Europe.
Zamora
1 Day | Fall & Spring
Tour a winery and see the largest collection of Romanesque churches in all of Europe.
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 Salamanca 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 the field trips that take you places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.
Orientation
The program begins with a mandatory orientation that introduces you to the IES Abroad Salamanca staff, your fellow students, and the city of Salamanca. Topics such as academics, housing, transportation, and health and safety are covered during this time.
Additionally, CORE™, IES Abroad’s Comprehensive Orientation & Re-entry Experience, begins during orientation and continues throughout the semester with activities focusing on cultural adjustment, goal achievement, and preparing for the return home.
You will participate in a one-credit Spanish language orientation course that includes intensive classes in Spanish conversation and colloquial usage.
Past orientation activities have included dance classes, a soccer tournament with Spanish students, and an excursion to Segovia, known for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture and for having one of the best preserved Roman aqueducts in all of Europe. You also visit the charming Romanesque town of Zamora and the famous wine region of Toro. The program is designed to integrate you into every aspect of life in Salamanca.
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 Salamanca, it will feel like home.
Residence Halls – All rooms are singles with an in-suite bathroom and a shared kitchenette. The residence hall features a weight room, laundry facilities, computer lab, study area, and game room. IES Abroad provides you with 7 meals per week. You'll receive a meal card to use in various university dining halls.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events
Redefine the way you live and learn in Salamanca through our cultural events, such as:
- Local gastronomy outings
- Spanish films, theater productions, concerts, and art exhibits
- Spanish cooking classes
- Guest lectures and cultural events sponsored by IES Abroad
Orientation Leaders and Mentors
Participate in activities organized by Spanish volunteer students from our partner universities. Whether it's an international potluck, a pickup game of soccer, or a tour of the city's best restaurants you will gain a unique perspective into student life in Salamanca and create lifelong friendships.
University Clubs & Events
Involvement in sporting clubs and student societies can be a great opportunity to meet local students. Club and event availability for IES Abroad students at the Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca varies each semester; during your orientation, you will learn about the different opportunities available during your semester in Salamanca.
Get to Know Your New City
Spot the Frog at the University of Salamanca
Legend says that students who find the small frog at the entrance of the University among the heroes, legends, and coats of arms will pass their exams and get good grades easily!
Visit Plaza Mayor
Grab a café con leche and people watch in this enchanting public square.
Tour the Cathedrals of Salamanca
Plan to spend some time exploring these massive, architecturally impressive cathedrals. Be sure to do the Ieronimus tower tour to see spectacular views of the city.
Unwind at Casa de las Conchas
This architectural gem is also a public library! Come for a unique place to study, or just relax in the courtyard.
Explore Casa Lis (Art Nouveau & Art Deco Museum)
The building is just as beautiful as the extraordinary works of art inside.
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
Program-Specific Scholarships
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
While in Salamanca, we want to ensure you have every opportunity to immerse yourself in new experiences. That’s why our IES Abroad Salamanca Center 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 Salamanca experience.
The IES Abroad Salamanca Center, housed in a modern building in the heart of the city, is just minutes away from the historic Plaza Mayor and the campuses of the Universidad de Salamanca and Universidad Pontificia.
Our Center is your connection point for all things IES Abroad.
- Take your IES Abroad courses in the Center’s classrooms
- Meet with staff in their offices
- Relax with friends in the student lounge
- Get work done in the library or study area
Other features include WiFi and a computer lab.
Our Staff
Barbara Liberatore
Center Director
Originally from the United States, Barbara Liberatore has been living and working in Salamanca for over 25 years. She is fluent in Spanish and Italian. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rhode Island, where she studied languages, and her Master’s degree in Italian Studies from Brown University, where she also held a teaching assistantship. Barbara brings to IES Abroad more than 25 years of experience in teaching, management and supervision in international education. She has taught a wide range of courses and languages to students of all ages. Barbara taught in Brown University’s Summer Intensive English Program, was the Assistant Director for the University of Rhode Island’s Summer Study Abroad Program in Salamanca, and directed other American study abroad programs in Salamanca before beginning with IES Abroad. She has held the position of Center Director at the IES Abroad Salamanca Center since 2008. As Center Director, Barbara is in charge of Center management, supervises both staff and faculty, and focuses on academics and curriculum development at the Center.
IES Abroad Salamanca Staff
María Ángeles Tabárez de Dios
Academic and Administrative Coordinator
David Artime Holgado
Student Affairs Coordinator
Yolanda López
Housing Coordinator
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 spring—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!
Spring 2021 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 Spring 2021, which allows you to still plan to study abroad or intern, knowing that if for some reason you cannot participate, your program fees and Confirmation Deposit will be fully refunded up to two weeks before the start of your program.
Don't put your dreams on hold just because the world is unknown.
AT A GLANCE
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