Alicante harbor view
Alicante, Spain

Language + Culture

Study Program

Dates

-

17 weeks

Costs

Credit

13 - 16 semester hours

19.5 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Dates

-

16 weeks

Costs

Credit

13 - 16 semester hours

19.5 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Tentative Dates

-

17 weeks

Credit

13 - 16 semester hours

19.5 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Overview

Spend your semester living and learning in the dazzling, coastal city of Alicante! Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, the Language + Culture program is the perfect chance to earn credits toward your degree while immersing yourself in Spanish culture.

When class is in session, you'll choose from a unique mix of flexible and diverse courses (in English or Spanish) at CIEE Alicante and CIEE's renowned partner institution, Universidad de Alicante.  

Outside the classroom, you'll have every opportunity to participate actively in the Spanish community. Immerse yourself in the local culture with optional credit-bearing internships, volunteering opportunities, or language programs. Don't stop there; round out your study abroad adventure by participating in co-curricular and extracurricular activities and off-the-beaten-path trips organized by CIEE to appreciate Alicante’s impressive cultural attractions and landmarks. 
 

Unique Experiences

Travel to Another Amazing Spanish City

such as Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Murcia, or Granada

Live With a Spanish Family

at their Alicante home and soak up the language and culture as you live like a local

Learn Alongside Peers From Spain

and other countries at Universidad de Alicante, one of Spain’s newest universities with a modern campus and an international vibe

90

Cities Reached From the Alicante International Airport

30 K

Students at Universidad de Alicante

377 K

Population of Alicante

Experience
  • Alicante harbor view
  • Alicante apartments and awnings

Your Destination

With a historic cultural heritage dating back thousands of years, Alicante is one of Spain’s booming port cities best known for its miles-long beaches, award-winning museums, and beautiful year-round weather. The city’s most iconic landmark, the medieval Castle of Santa Barbara, keeps watch over all of Alicante from its central location atop Mount Benacantil.  

Like other regions in Spain and Europe, Alicante is bilingual. Castilian Spanish is the primary language spoken by most residents but be on the lookout for the second most popular language, Valenciano. Additionally, you should take comfort in knowing that Alicante is considered one of the safest cities in Europe and is an excellent place to take your studies. From its large student population to its reliable public transportation network, first-class educational opportunities, green parks, and café culture, this budget-friendly city is the perfect place to live and learn abroad.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Alicante. 

The Culture

alicante student sunglasses city overlook

Excursions & Activities

  • Enjoy weekend trips to emblematic Spanish cities  
  • Visit important cultural and historical landmarks in Granada, Madrid, Seville, or Valencia  
  • Take day trips to explore the Alicante Province or the Valencia region  
  • Explore sites like Guadalest Castle, the Canelobre Caves, the Algar Waterfalls, or Altea on the Mediterranean coast     
  • Go on walking tours of the different neighborhoods of Alicante and its surrounding villages and towns  
  • Play soccer and root for the local team (Hercules) to win  
  • Try your hand at cooking delicious authentic tapas 
  • Enjoy the rich local culture and partake of local traditions with local peers 
alicante lab visit

Projects

Internship: A for-credit internship (in English or in Spanish) allows students the opportunity to gain practical real-world work experience in a local company within a variety of industry sectors. In addition to the on-site business experience, students participating in an internship program have a weekly classroom component, which provides academic support to their practical experience.   

Directed Independent Research: This academic project (in English or in Spanish) is designed for qualified students who have demonstrated academic rigor and curiosity toward a particular research topic. Independent research topics will be approved by the CIEE Alicante Director and home institution and must reflect a topic that is relevant to Alicante or Spain. To be accepted into this course, students must submit a structured proposal with the topic of exploration and the significance of the research topic as it relates to Alicante/Spain, methodology, a literature review, and a schedule of research milestones. Upon research completion, students will present their findings to a panel of academics.   

Program Blogs

Visit to an organic farm

By David C.

Our Sustainable Food Systems course visited the Cel y Sòl ("Sky and Sun" in Catalan) Farm to learn more about agriculture in Spain, and how it compares wtih the US... keep reading

From CIEE

Indispensable stop in Alicante: The Central Market

By Laura Cremades at CIEE

The Central Market of Alicante can stimulate your five senses. It is a compendium of smells and colors. Fish stalls are a good example. It is very nice to walk... keep reading

From CIEE

Alicante, city of culture: Teatro Principal

By Laura Cremades at CIEE

Today I am going to introduce the theater of Alicante, called 'Teatro Principal'. Alicante is a relatively small city, as it has at about 330.000 inhabitants. However, there are many... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "I loved the homestay and my host mom is a gem. She is absolutely wonderful and made my experience truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

    Elise, Babson College, Spring 17

  • "I really loved this program and felt like the professors created an awesome environment that allowed the students to feel comfortable, but still challenged us."

    Margaret, Pennsylvania State University, Spring 17

Housing
Academics

Academics

In the Language and Culture program, students will take courses (in English or Spanish) at CIEE and CIEE’s partner university, Universidad de Alicante, worth a total of 13-16 credits including a required language class. 

GPA

2.5 

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

All students take four to five courses per semester, for a total program credit of 13-16 U.S. semester credits. All students take: 

  • One 4 U.S. credit language class during the semester 
  • Three to four elective courses in English and/or in Spanish at CIEE and/or the University of Alicante 
    • For any student choosing to take a content course in Spanish, a minimum of four semesters of college-level Spanish is strongly recommended.   

Program Credit

Total credit: 13-16 U.S. semester/ 19.5-24 quarter credits

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours  
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 contact hours, 100 placement hours 
  • CIEE Directed Independent Research: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 contact hours, 100 research hours 
  • Universidad de Alicante Courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 60 contact hours, unless otherwise noted 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

CIEE courses are held at CIEE Alicante with other CIEE students only. Students should expect to have daily homework assignments and continuous assessments. Most courses combine lectures with local field trips and excursions to help students gain a better understanding of the local culture.  Attendance is mandatory and absences affect final grades.  

Universidad de Alicante courses tend to be lecture-style. It is the student’s responsibility to demonstrate that they can analyze and discuss themes mentioned in-class lectures, debates, and discussions. 

Class Format

CIEE courses are scheduled Monday through Thursday, and typically include local field trips and excursions. Universidad de Alicante courses can be scheduled Monday through Friday, and may include class lectures, debates and discussion.  

Grading

In CIEE and Universidad de Alicante-Centro Superior de Idiomas courses, students are graded based on quizzes, exams, homework assignments, research papers, oral presentations, and class participation. Some include compulsory field trips with special assignments. Attendance to class is required. 

Grades in the Universidad de Alicante regular courses can be based on a final exam, final project, or final presentation only.  

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

English and Spanish  

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Courses

Course Information

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Literature, Linguistics, and Writing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Visual and Performing Arts

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Literature, Linguistics, and Writing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Visual and Performing Arts

Course
Language
Semester Credit

University of Alicante 
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are 4 U.S. credits unless otherwise noted.    

UA Centro Superior de Idiomas (CSI) language courses:   

  • Beginner A1  
  • Intermediate A2  
  • Upper Intermediate B1  
  • Advanced B2  
  • Proficiency C1 

UA Centro Superior de Idiomas (CSI) Spanish culture courses in English:  

  • Intercultural Communication in Professional Contexts  
  • Spanish Cultures from an Intercultural Perspective

UA Centro Superior de Idiomas (CSI) Spanish culture courses in Spanish:    

  • Español de los negocios (in Spanish) (Spanish for business). Pre-requisite: Intermediate 1 (A2).  
  • Turismo y cultura gastronómica española (in Spanish) (Spanish tourism and gastronomy). Pre-requisite: Intermediate 1 (A2).  
  • Género, lengua y poder (in Spanish) (Gender, language, and power). Pre-requisite: Upper Intermediate (B1).  
  • La sociedad española del siglo XX a través de la literatura (in Spanish) (The Spanish society of the 20th century through literature). Pre-requisite: Upper Intermediate (B1).  
  • Enseñanza del español como L2/LE  (in Spanish) (Teaching Spanish as a foreign language). Pre-requisite: Advanced 1 (B2).  

UA regular courses in English

UA regular courses in Spanish: The number of credits varies depending on contact hours 

Language Pre-requisite: It is recommended that students have a minimum of four (preferably five) previous semesters of college-level Spanish. 

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

 

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2024 17 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $18,950
Program Fall 2024 16 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $18,950
Program Spring 2025 17 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, ask your college or university study abroad advisor if your school charges additional fees for study abroad.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $13,956**

Housing = $4,500

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $18,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $0

International Airfare = $1,250††

Local Transportation = $150

Books & Supplies = $60

Visa Fees = $160

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500

Personal expenses = $260†††

Total Costs = $2,380

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee:

Select Housing Fee = $750^

Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500^^

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $260 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††Round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

^first-come, first serve, based on availability

^^first-come, first serve, based on availability

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $13,956**

Housing = $4,500***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $18,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $0

International Airfare = $1,250††

Local Transportation = $150

Books & Supplies = $60

Visa Fees = $160

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500

Personal expenses = $260†††

Total Costs = $2,380

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee:

Select Housing Fee = $750^

Select Plus Housing Fee = $1,500^^

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***includes three meals per day for homestay students; No meals included for students who select apartments or residence halls.

For students in homestays, families provide all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $260 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††Round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

^first-come, first serve, based on availability

^^first-come, first serve, based on availability

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Rocío Díez

Center Director

Rocío oversees all semester and summer programs. Rocio, who joined CIEE in 2015, has extensive working experience in the fields of communication and cultural management. She holds a B.A. in...

Vanesa Ruiz

Program Manager

Vanesa was born and raised in Alicante and earned her BA in English Studies from Universidad de Alicante and a MA in Teaching. She has been working in the field...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application 
You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office 
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact Us 
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info