Semester in Barcelona - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona

Let Barcelona captivate you

Our Semester in Barcelona - Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) program situates you in the heart of UNESCO World Heritage site at a young, entrepreneurial university. Practice your Spanish as you stroll down the tree-lined La Rambla, take a cooking class to perfect delicious tapas, and lose an afternoon (or many) to Gaudi’s whimsical architecture. Studying at UAB offers the ideal experience of lively campuses, supportive staff, and close proximity to commercial centers, cultural sites, and the beautiful Barceloneta beach!

What to Expect

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Average Courseload:

4-5 classes (12-15 U.S. credits)

GPA Requirement:

2.75

Visa Requirement:

YES - Pre-departure

Highlights:

Study at an UNESCO World Heritage site

Enjoy exceptional support, including a comprehensive on-site orientation and guided tours of the city

Choose from a wide range of courses taught in English, including Art, Business, Communication, Culture, Economics, History, Politics and more

Participate in frequent social and cultural activities

Study Spanish language at any level for 3 or 6 credits

I was super nervous about living in another country, but CIS Abroad calmed my nerves right away! They picked me up from the airport, helped me get settled into my apartment, and they were always available for help and advice.

Katy Zborowski

CIS Abroad really helped me to become a part of the culture in Barcelona. Their cultural activities gave me a hands on experience of what life is like in Barcelona. This has changed my life because I will always reflect on my time in Barcelona, and how I grew as a person.

Maleesha Ebanks

Little did I know that I would learn more about myself and the world than anything I could ever learn in a classroom. Being abroad for four months gives you the chance to not only see the touristy places, but also the small details of life that make up the culture in Barcelona.

Lillian Redpath

I was recommended CIS Abroad over any other program by my school's Office of International Education because of the high regard students from the past decade had for their programs. I went into CIS Abroad's program not knowing a soul and they made the transition unbelievably easy for me. If the other programs are anything like CIS Abroad Barcelona, you can be sure to expect a team that genuinely desires for you to have a safe, fun, eye-opening, memorable, and life-changing experience.

Joel Kearney

I learned to navigate and eventually remembered directions without needing my phone. This skill transitioned into my travels and I was navigating international transportation systems in different languages. It was a challenge, but I loved it! I got a sense of accomplishment when I was able to navigate myself and my group from one location to another based off what I'd learned.

Katie Conner

Program Details

Semester in Barcelona - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) is one of the top universities in Spain, ranking #3 in the country. An academic powerhouse, UAB is a young, entrepreneurial university in an exciting city. Business students flock to UAB, where you can take a wide array of courses in business, international relations, and economics. Not to be overshadowed, the art and humanities courses at UAB are equally strong. You have the option to take classes in either Spanish or English. Luckily, UAB accommodates Spanish-language speakers of all levels.

The Sant Pau campus is housed within an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site called the Hospital de la Santa Creu. Wander fifteen minutes down the block and you'll stumble upon the world-renowned la Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's iconic cathedral. You'll attend all of your courses on this campus, and you'll meet other U.S. and international students.

Founded in 1968, UAB is ranked as #190 in the world by QS.

Accreditation(s): Ministry of Education and Science.

Course Information

Browse Courses

Course listings are for exploratory purposes, final course availability is determined during the enrollment process.

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Life in Barcelona

It’s no wonder that Barcelona is one of the top tourist and study abroad destinations in the world. This incredible location on the shores of the Mediterranean has a delightfully mild climate year round. Plus, Barcelona is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities to live in! The second-largest city in Spain has two official languages: Castilian Spanish and Catalan. It’s the perfect place to challenge yourself and practice your own Spanish skills, while also learning more about the unique Catalan history and culture.

The city is bustling, and you'll be in awe of the architecture, including Gaudi's towering Sagrada Familia basilica. When you're ready to immerse yourself in nature, you can easily reach beaches and hiking sites just outside of Barcelona. The efficient public transportation system allows you to quickly travel to the many beaches to both the north and south of Barcelona. It also means you can easily navigate campus and the many amazing sites located throughout the city.

The city’s diverse international population, colorful flair, exciting nightlife, and vast array of cultural, historical, and modern attractions makes Barcelona an unparalleled place to study abroad!

Live the Local Life

Barrio Gótico

Enjoy a guided walking tour around the Barrio Gótico, the oldest neighborhood in Barcelona, while learning all about the history of the city.

Spanish Wine Tour and Tasting

Learn all about the importance of the production of wine and cava in Catalunya at a beautiful vineyard that ends with an optional wine tasting paired with delicious local cheeses.

Around Catalunya

Visit a local beach town in Catalunya and amaze in the wonders of hidden coves while soaking up the beach culture in Spain.

Tibidabo Hike

This outdoor activity gets students out and about and a chance to hike up to some of the best views of the city.

Barcelona - Sample Student Residence

Overview

Enjoy upscale, shared accommodations in a residence designed for visiting students just like you! The student residence boasts a whole suite of modern amenities that ensure you're living in complete comfort. The double rooms have twin beds, an ensuite shared bathroom, storage space, and two desk and chair sets. Step out of your bedroom into a shared apartment environment, with living and lounging spaces, dining areas, and a kitchen. Share a meal or conversation with your apartment mates, find a quiet nook of your own, or head for one of the residence's communal spaces.

Among the residence's abundant shared amenities, you'll find a gym, pool, terrace, lounges, kitchens, study areas, and cinema room. You'll be supported by 24/7 on-site staff and friendly reception.

The residence is located on Carrer Pallars, bordering Poblenou in the 22@, Barcelona’s innovation district. The major thoroughfare, Avenida Diagonal, is just around the corner, providing easy access to the rest of Barcelona. The beach is about 15 minutes' walk.

Meals

You'll have access to a kitchen shared among your apartment mates stocked with basic cooking supplies.

Inclusions and Amenities

24-Hour Security Bathroom - Ensuite Bathroom - Shared Bed Linens Cleaning Service Desk Double Room Fitness Center Kitchen Equipment Laundry Laundry - Onsite Maintenance Service Pool Study Areas Towels Wi-Fi

Barcelona - Sample Student Residence 2

Overview

Enjoy single room accommodations in a modern residence designed for international students! The property has a full suite of modern amenities, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as possible. Have your own private bedroom and bathroom in a shared apartment with communal living, dining, and kitchen areas. Each single room features an ensuite shared bathroom, ample storage, and a desk. You'll also have access to a gym, laundry facilities, study rooms, and a rooftop swimming pool.

Situated just 15 minutes east of Barcelona’s center by Metro and a short 15- minute walk from the beach, the residence is at the edge of the vibrant Poblenou neighborhood in the 22@ innovation district, with Avenida Diagonal providing easy access to the rest of the city.

Inclusions and Amenities

24-Hour Security Air Conditioning Bathroom - Ensuite Bed Linens Cleaning Service Desk Fitness Center Kitchen Equipment Laundry - Onsite Pool Single Room Study Areas Towels Wi-Fi

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

Airport pickup
Excursions and frequent cultural and social activities
Full-time tuition and fees
Housing
Medical and accident insurance
CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
On-site support
Academic advising
Financial aid counseling
Assistance with travel arrangements
Pre-departure orientation
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona orientation
Official Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona digital transcript
The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival in Barcelona, you’ll be collected from the airport and taken to your accommodation. In the first few days you’ll take part in orientation programs that will introduce you to this vibrant and cosmopolitan city you will come to call home. You’ll learn practical tips for living in Barcelona, you'll get a lay of the land by visiting some of Barcelona's top neighborhoods, and we'll share advice about where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop, and plenty more. We'll also enjoy a welcome meal together.

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

As the program draws to a close, you'll go home with the tools you need to make the most of your experience. In our re-entry workshop, learn how to cope with cultural differences you'll experience as you go home, how to put your abroad experience on your resume (and talk about it in job interviews), as well as how to keep traveling in the future. End the trip with a farewell meal with all your new CIS Abroad amigos and the staff, for a chance to say "hasta luego" to your new city!

Program Excursions

While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past.

Day Trips Around Catalonia

A day trip around Catalonia typically includes guided tours, some museum entrance fees, a group ...

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Weekend Trip from Barcelona

During weekend trips, you might experience Flamenco and tour the beautiful Alhambra in Granada; eat ...

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Barcelona Cooking Class

During this Spanish Cuisine Workshop students learn a variety of traditional Spanish dishes from ...

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Site Director

Nicole Baumgartner

Site Director - Barcelona

About:

Nicole was born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest in Seattle, Washington, and studied Political Science, Law Societies and Justice, and Human Rights at the University of Washington. Nicole has always had the travel bug so after graduating she moved to Spain to work as an English Assistant and fell in love with the country of tapas, flamenco, and constant sunshine! She lived in Granada, Spain for 9 years and is lucky to now call Barcelona home. She has always worked in education and loves seeing the profound benefits of students immersing themselves in another language and culture. As site director in Barcelona Nicole is looking forward to welcoming students to the most desired and exciting city in Spain and giving them the most local experience to help deepen student understanding of the Spanish culture and language. In her free time, Nicole is studying for a Global MBA at IE University and uses the skills from this degree in her daily life and job. She also loves to spend time at the beach, wandering around neighborhoods, and grabbing tapas with friends.

Travel Tip:

When traveling always make friends with the locals! They will help really immerse you into the culture and give you a different perspective of your destination. They have the best recommendations for the most authentic restaurants and show you places that you would never find in a guidebook or on a blog. Not only will you have a great experience while traveling, but you also have the chance to make new, lifelong friends from around the world!

Sophia Ventura

Assistant Site Director - Barcelona

About:

Sophia grew up in southeastern Massachusetts and earned her degree in economics with a focus on Labor and Policy from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. During this time, she studied abroad in Alicante, Spain. This would eventually lead her to her current venture of pursuing her Master of Science in Economics at the University of Barcelona. Sophia has a passion for people and has fallen in love with Barcelona for its vibrant social culture and ease of meeting people. She believes that, beyond academics, some of the most valuable knowledge comes from the genuine connections made with people you meet and the experiences you have.

Sophia looks forward to welcoming students to Barcelona and showing them all that the city has to offer. She hopes to connect new students with the city through sport, creativity, and immersive cultural experiences.

Travel Tip:

When I land in a new country, the first thing I do is explore the grocery store bakery section. It is my favorite way to explore the everyday food of an area. It is also a great way to find out which kinds of pastries you want to look for in a local artisan bakery!

Alexander Dorsey

Site Director - Barcelona

About:

I'm originally from Detroit, Michigan and I came to Barcelona years ago for what I thought would be a short stay, but I quickly fell in love with the city and its culture and I decided to make it my home. With a background in finance and a Master's of Education, I've spent the past 10 years working with students here, helping them connect across cultures and explore new perspectives. I've also had the chance to travel to several different countries and have amazing experiences, which has only deepened my passion for global education. Outside work, you'll find me spending time with my family, trying new recipes or diving into a good book. I'm excited to support students in an unforgettable experience in Barcelona.

Travel Tip:

Plan ahead, but embrace spontaneity. Stay curious and open and definitely don't be afraid to make a fool of yourself. It's all part of the adventure.

Your Support Staff

Syd O'Wesney

Program Enrollment Coordinator - England, Ireland, Scotland, Spain

Travel Tip:

Make sure to explore the city that you're in! Although the beauty of study abroad is you have the chance to travel all over the country and to other countries as well, sometimes people forget how many amazing things there are right there in the city they're studying in! Make some local friends, participate in holidays and festivals, find that local beloved restaurant. Although I have many travel memories to talk about, some of my fondest or most nostalgic moments I have were the ‘in betweens' so to speak – going grocery shopping with friends, hanging out in the school courtyard at night when the temperature outside was finally bearable, saying hello to the neighborhood cow (yes, there was in fact a neighborhood cow). Don't neglect what you have right in front of you!

Marina Weinstein

International Operations Director - UK, Ireland, Greece, Spain and Costa Rica

Travel Tip:

Walk, walk, walk, whenever you can! And take your time. You might find the most special surprises on your way to destination.

Kaylee Klinger

Advising & Alumni Relations Manager

Travel Tip:

The best travel tip I always share is, if possible try to catch a redeye flight. That has helped me tremendously fight jet-lag and it allows you more time to explore the extraordinary unfamiliar place!

Serenah Quiroga

Advising & Communications Coordinator

Travel Tip:

Always find a reason to talk to a local or someone you may not know. Whether it's a simple hello, compliment, or question, there is always something to learn from every person you meet. Some of my best experiences and favorite memories were formed because of these interactions.

Alumni Ambassadors

Molly Gosling

University of Georgia

Semester in Barcelona - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona

Ask me about my experience

What did you love most about your host country?

My favorite thing about Barcelona was the pace of life. It was the first time I wasn't rushing around and had a chance to actually appreciate what was around me and there was a lot to see. My favorite moments were reading my book on the lightrail, looking up and people watching, going to the beach to watch the sunset every night with my friends, and walking around the gothic quarter.

Dates & Prices

Additional Information:

Price Range

SPRING 2025

12 credit option - Double Rooms in Aparto / Single Rooms in Micampus (limited availability): $14,590
15 credit option - Double Rooms in Aparto / Single Rooms in Micampus (limited availability): $15,490

FALL 2024

List prices include double occupancy in housing "Sample Student Residence"

12 credit option - double room: $14,490
15 credit option - double room: $15,490

Program Deposit

There is a non-refundable program deposit for all CIS Abroad programs. Paying the deposit secures your spot on the program! The deposit deadline and amount can be seen above in the Dates & Prices section.

Please note: As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.

CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.

ADVISOR TIP:

Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.

I knew I wanted to study abroad, particularly in Japan, because it was on my bucket list. Thanks to CIS, I was able to go to Tokyo! Even now, it is surreal to me that I got to go! I can't put it into words how much fun I had in Tokyo. I enjoyed every second of my time there, from walking around the bustling streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, to going to class, eating delicious Japanese cuisine, and even going to the convenience store. Even the simplest things were incredibly fun to me. I was initially anxious about being homesick, my Japanese skills and traveling alone, but I'm happy to say that I very quickly made lovely, lifelong friends and was met with nothing but kindness from the locals. I learned not to let my worries get in the way of an opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you, CIS Abroad. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity I had to go to Tokyo.

Semester in Barcelona - Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona

Let Barcelona captivate you

What to Expect

Highlights:

Learn More About This and Other Programs

Katy Zborowski

Maleesha Ebanks

Lillian Redpath

Joel Kearney

Katie Conner

Program Details

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Course Information

Life in Barcelona

Live the Local Life

Barrio Gótico

Spanish Wine Tour and Tasting

Around Catalunya

Tibidabo Hike

Barcelona - Sample Student Residence

Overview

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

Barcelona - Sample Student Residence 2

Overview

Inclusions and Amenities

What's Included

Inclusions

Welcome & Orientation

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Site Director

Nicole Baumgartner

About:

Travel Tip:

Sophia Ventura

About:

Travel Tip:

Alexander Dorsey

About:

Travel Tip:

Your Support Staff

Syd O'Wesney

Travel Tip:

Marina Weinstein

Travel Tip:

Kaylee Klinger

Travel Tip:

Serenah Quiroga

Travel Tip:

Alumni Ambassadors

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP:

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Semester in Barcelona -
Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona