Language + Culture
Your Language + Culture program in Barcelona lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses, host institution courses, one required language course, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Spanish culture. Live and learn in Barcelona!
Unique Experiences
Immerse in Local Life with a Host Family
to absorb the Spanish language and traditions, enhancing your cultural understanding and fluency
Foster Connections with Spanish Peers
as you participate in language exchanges and practice your language skills
Embrace Barcelona's Timeless Charms
when you discover the perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations in this cosmopolitan city
Your Destination
Barcelona is Spain’s cosmopolitan city, celebrated for its rich history, diverse artistic heritage, and dynamic cultural scene. From the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter to the surrealist works of Dalí and Miró, the city offers endless inspiration for students studying literature, history, philosophy, the arts, and more. Whether you're exploring Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces or engaging with the city's thriving literary and artistic communities, Barcelona is the perfect place to study language and culture abroad.
Program Highlights
- Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses, host institution courses, and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
- Optional Internship Placements: Enhance your program with an optional for-credit internship that aligns with your career aspirations.
- Immersive Experiences: Participate in activites, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
- Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join student clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.
Excursions & Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Barcelona will open doors for you to explore Spain’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of past excursions and activities:
- • Discover the Gràcia neighborhood, famous for its bohemian and artistic style
- • Visit the oldest preserved garden, reflecting both neoclassical and romantic styles
- • Hike the Carretera de les Aigües for amazing views over the city
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Program Blogs
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HOUSING & MEALS
HOUSING
CIEE Barcelona offers diverse housing options to ensure you’re comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to shared apartments, we strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.
Standard Housing: Includes a single room at a homestay or a single room at a residence hall located within 50 minutes from CIEE Barcelona. Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family. Residence Halls boast shared kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students.
Select Housing: Includes a double room at a shared apartment located within 30 minutes from CIEE Barcelona. Apartments boast shared kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students. Select housing requires an additional fee.
Select Plus Housing: Includes a single room at a residence hall located within 30 minutes from CIEE Barcelona. Residence halls boast shared kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students. Select Plus housing requires an additional fee.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. Final placements are communicated to all students 3 weeks before arrival.
MEALS
Homestays: Students have breakfast and dinner with their host families, and they are responsible for lunch. Students do not typically have access to use the kitchen at the host family home.
Residence Halls and Shared Apartments: Meals are not included.
Academics
CIEE Barcelona: Study near Barcelona’s main square, Plaça Catalunya, on a beautiful pedestrian passageway, only minutes from cafés, restaurants, and important cultural attractions. CIEE Barcelona features classrooms, a student lounge, conference rooms, and charming 19th-century terraces where students can relax outdoors.
Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) is a highly ranked public university in Barcelona created in 1990 by the Autonomous Government of Catalonia. At UPF, students can take courses with other international students at the Barcelona Program for Interdisciplinary Studies (BaPIS). All courses are usually held at Ciutadella Vila Olímpica Campus.
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) is a public university founded in 1968 with an enrollment of more than 40,000 students. UAB is the second-highest ranking Spanish university according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. At UAB, students take courses with other CIEE students from the UAB Study Abroad Program. All courses are usually held at Casa Convalescència Campus.
Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Course Information
- Once a student starts internship hours, they may not drop the internship
- UPF host institution Spanish language courses meet for 8 hours per week and are 6 U.S. credits
- UPF BaPIS courses are taught in English for local and international students
The LC program is composed of two tracks, with two different host institutions: UPF (Universitat Pompeu Fabra) and UAB (Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona). Students need to choose one track (UPF or UAB) and they can’t combine courses from both host institutions.
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Literature, Linguistics, and Writing
Mathematics and Statistics
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Mathematics and Statistics
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
UPF Required Language Courses
The required UPF language courses are 6 U.S. credits and meet for 8 hours per week.
Syllabi for the courses listed below can be found online:
- Beginning Spanish Language
- Pre-Intermediate Spanish Language
- (Prerequisite: one semester of college-level Spanish, or the equivalent)
- Intermediate Spanish Language
- (Prerequisite: two or three semesters college-level Spanish, or the equivalent)
UPF Barcelona Program for Interdisciplinary Studies (BaPIS) Courses
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are taught in English and are 3 U.S. credits.
Syllabi for the courses listed below can be found online.
Here is a sample of BaPIS courses in English:
- Analytics for Social Good
- Anthropocene – How People Are Transforming the Planet
- Art and Gender in Contemporary Spain
- Artificial Intelligence, Creativity, and the Arts
- Barcelona the City and its History
- Contemporary Spanish Art
- Circular Economy
- Gender-based Violence and International Protection of Human Rights
- Global Marketing and Culture of FC Barcelona
- Globalized World, Globalized Problems? Creative Proposals From Public Service Television Worldwide
- Innovation and the Law. How Technology Changes the Legal System
- LGTB+: Exploring Identities and Diversity
- Mind, Brains and Machines
- The Impact Journey: (Un) Sustainability, Climate Emergency, Authentic Leadership
- The Jews in Spain: History, Heritage and Memory
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
UAB Language Courses (required)
Language courses are 6 U.S. credits and meet for 8 hours per week.
- Beginner Spanish
- Elementary Spanish
- Low Intermediate Spanish
- Intermediate Spanish
UAB Content Courses
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are taught in English and are 3 U.S. credits.
UAB Study Abroad Program sample courses in English (taken with other CIEE students only):
- The Seven Wonders of Spain: Spanish Architecture History
- Communication and Gender
- Mediterranean Culture and History Strategic Management of the Firm
- Politics, War and Economics in the Age of Globalization
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
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.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Students interning in Barcelona are placed with innovative startups and global organizations across various sectors. The most sought-after profiles are those with interests in business, engineering, marketing, and communication, reflecting the city's vibrant work scene that thrives on creativity and collaboration.
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.
Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications
Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.
Government and Public Administration
Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.
Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
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
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
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 Fall 2025 16 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $20,950 |
| Program Academic year 2025-2026 | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date * | End Date TBD* | |
| Program Spring 2026 14 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, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
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 | $14,956 ** |
| Housing | $5,500 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $20,950 |
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. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
| Select Housing Fee | $1,500 |
| Select Plus Housing Fee | $2,250 |
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.
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 | $1,120 † |
| International Airfare | $1,250 †† |
| Local Transportation | $65 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $100 |
| Visa Fees | $160 |
| Potential travel to consulate for visa | $500 |
| Personal expenses | $260 †††† |
| Total Costs | $3,455 |
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays. Families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner) and students purchase lunch (there isn’t usually access to a kitchen). For students in 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
†††Local transportation: t-jove (3 months) = 40€ ($43) / t-usual (1 month) = 20€ ($21)
††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
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.
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.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
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.
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.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
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
Our Staff
Andrés Tabárez
Center Director
Andrés holds a Ph.D. in Classical Studies from the University of Barcelona (UB).
José Luis Espinosa
Academic Director
José Luis holds a Ph.D. in Modern Languages and Gender Studies from the University of Salamanca (USAL).
Fernando Janeiro
Senior Program Manager
Nando holds a Master's Degree in Humanities from Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Barcelona) and is certified as a Spanish as a Second Language instructor.
Get Started
1
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 CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
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