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Study Abroad
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese believes that intensive study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country is an essential part of learning for students seeking both the major and minor in Spanish. In-depth experience enriches both language acquisition and sensitivity to cultural differences.
Students seeking to complete a major in Spanish should plan to study an entire academic year in one of the centers listed below; those seeking a minor should strive for a semester abroad. Summer programs are not credited for courses beyond the SPN 311, 315 level.
We have carefully evaluated numerous study abroad programs, and recommend the following as academically rigorous and offering the best opportunities for cultural integration. Please contact our Chief Departmental Advisor to make an appointment to discuss specific program details, course equivalencies and transfer of credit; the Office of International Programs in MacMillan for general information about study abroad; and the appropriate divisional advising office for questions about Miami Plan requirements that might be fulfilled while studying abroad.
Study Abroad Photo Gallery
We ask that you download and fill out the Study Abroad Information Form prior to your meeting with the CDA.
Highly-recommended Programs
for
Spanish Majors and Minors
1. IES Program - Madrid, Spain
see also: other IES programs (for example, Granada)
2. IFSA/Butler Univ. Program - Buenos Aires, Argentina; Santiago, Chile
see also: other Butler University programs in Latin America
3. University of Virginia Program - Valencia, Spain
4. Boston University Program - Burgos, Spain
Frequently Asked Questions About Study Abroad
1. Q. Can I study abroad even though I am a Zoology (Art, Chemistry, etc.) major?
A. Yes! Most students can, with some careful planning, work study abroad into their program. Remember that Miami Plan courses, primarily in the fine arts and social sciences, are available in most recommended programs in addition to those directly related to the Spanish major or minor.
2. Q. I have loans to pay for school; isn't studying abroad a lot more expensive than attending Miami?
A. Programs vary in cost, some more, some less than Miami’s tuition. There are
interest-free loans exclusively for studying abroad, scholarship opportunities, and the possibility of utilizing existing loans and scholarships for the study abroad program.
3. Q. When is the best time to schedule study abroad?
A. Most study abroad programs are designed to serve the needs of juniors. It is possible that you will be ready before that point, and in some cases after. There is some flexibility here. Deadlines for application are usually mid-way through the previous semester, eg. for spring semester, plan to apply by end of Sept-early October.
4. Q. How do my credits/grades transfer back to Miami?
A. Currently, only the credits (not the grades) transfer from programs abroad (we are working to change that!). With the proper paperwork, classes abroad can be counted for specific courses at Miami, including classes for your major, minor, or even Miami Plan. You should talk with the CDA of the Department of Spanish and Portuguese before departure in order to choose specific courses. Once you return, these courses will be accredited according to your prior agreement or adjustments made according to specific circumstances.
5. Q. I love Miami, why would I leave to study abroad?
A. We all love Miami, but going abroad is an important part of a complete education, and essential for students majoring in a foreign language. Immersion in language and culture is the fundamental step toward achieving fluency. Students learn so much about the world and themselves while abroad. It is always a challenge to work international travel into life, and even harder to actually live for an extended period abroad. Do it now, while you can: you won’t be sorry. Studying abroad also looks amazing on resumes!
6. Q. But. wouldn't it just be easier for me to study abroad after I graduate when I
have more time and money?
A. The time to study abroad is now. You may have more money after graduation, but you won't have more time. Now is when you have the most time-flexibility in your life. Make the most of it.
7. Q. Will I graduate on time if I study abroad?
A. The earlier you plan, the better. You can set aside classes and take them abroad. Spanish majors and minors should talk to the Departmental CDA as soon as you know you are interested; all students should contact the appropriate divisional advising office about your courses in general.
8. Q. Are classes abroad a lot harder than classes at Miami?
A. Most students say that classes abroad are NOT harder than classes at Miami. Just different. It is a very different atmosphere in non-American classes, which is exactly why we study abroad in the first place!
9. Q. Isn't it too dangerous to study abroad nowadays?
A. Statistically, you are far more likely to have an accident at home than on a study abroad experience. If you use the same caution you would when visiting a big U.S. city, you won't have any trouble.
10. Q. So, the Department’s CDA helps me choose programs and courses. Whom can I talk to about the rest of the process?
A. The Office of International Education in 216 MacMillan Hall is devoted to helping students with the non-academic part of the study abroad: finances, visas, etc. They also maintain a list of student reactions to the various programs. And don't forget to talk with the appropriate divisional advising office. Make planning part of the adventure!
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