Spanish and Andean Anthropological Studies
The Program
The summer Santiago program offers two four-week sessions. You may opt to participate in one or both of the sessions. This program is ideal for those unable to participate on the semester program and are interested in being in the southern zone of South America during its winter season.
Santiago’s urban and natural framework and its proximity to the sites and cities located on Chile’s central coastline (Valparaíso and Viña del Mar) offer students an opportunity to encounter and interact with the nature and culture of the most southern country in the world.
There are two options for combining courses from the following subject areas: Intensive Spanish language and Andean Anthropology and electives. The first option is to concentrate on intensive language by taking 3 to 4 credits of Spanish in each session, with the opportunity to complete an entire year of language study in 8 weeks. In addition, one or two 1- credit elective courses may also be taken each session in dance, culture or history.
The second option is for students who would prefer to focus on Andean Anthropology, specifically Chilean cultures from the north and south.
One 3-credit course may be combined with a 1-credit Introduction to Spanish Language course and if desired, one
1-credit elective course in dance, culture or history.
Since these options and subject areas are not exclusive of one another, students may combine courses for up to a total of 5 credits.
The academic courses are only a part of the intended value of a summer abroad. The participation in homestays, field trips and the optional tour of northern Chile are an integral part of the study program.
The Santiago program has a Resident Director who is responsible for the USAC office abroad and the overall operations of the program: securing appropriate student housing, hiring outstanding faculty, organizing field trips and optional tours and overseeing the students’ well-being.
Dr. Luis Andrés Figueroa, a Chilean native, is the Resident Director for the Chile program. He earned his Ph.D. from Washington University in St. Louis and is fluent in Spanish, French and English. Luis will meet the group flight at the airport and provide an on-site orientation. The USAC Chile program assistants, Lisa and Brenda, also provide support and resources while you are in Chile.