Spanish, European and Women's/Gender Studies
The Program
The Alicante summer program has two sessions. In either session it is possible to study in Spanish or in English or to take some classes in each language. The summer program is ideal for students unable to participate in semester or yearlong programs.
Session I is five weeks long, allowing students to take a minimum of 3 credits and a maximum of 6 credits. This session can be expanded to six weeks and a maximum of 7 credits by adding the 1-credit Madrid Field Study course at the beginning.
Session II is four weeks long, allowing students to take a minimum of 3 credits and a maximum of 5 credits. This session can also be expanded up to six weeks and a maximum of 7 credits by adding the 1-credit Madrid Field Study at the beginning and/or the 1-credit Camino de Santiago Field Study at the end.
Intensive Spanish language courses are offered, providing students the opportunity to take 3 to 5 credits each session with the opportunity to complete up to an entire year of language study in 9 weeks. In addition, a 3-credit Women's/Gender course or one or two elective courses may also be taken each session in Spanish and European Culture. Another option is to combine Women's/Gender Studies with elective courses.
The academic courses are only part of the value of a summer abroad. Participation in formal and informal activities, such as field trips and experiencing cultural events and village festivals also constitute an integral part of the experience.
The Alicante program has a Resident Director who is responsible for the USAC office abroad and overall operations of the program: securing appropriate student housing, hiring outstanding faculty, organizing exciting field trips and optional tours and overseeing the students’ well-being.
Luis Fernández, a Galicia, Spain native, is the Resident Director for the Alicante program. Luis earned his Masters degree from the University of Stirling, Scotland and is fluent in Spanish, Galician, and English. Luis will meet the group flight at the airport and provide an on-site orientation.