Seville, Spain

Introduction

Seville (population 700,000) is Spain's fourth largest city and the capital of the region of Andalusia. Located in the southwest part of the Iberian peninsula, Seville served as the focal point of the Spanish Renaissance, and shows a variety of influence: Roman, Visigoth, Muslim, Jewish, and Christian. Rich in history and tradition, Sevill offers a a broad education in language and civilization. Whether studying at a local university, exploring the streets, soaking up culture during the regular fiestas, you'll soon feel connected to the pulse of the city.

A list of the city's monuments and historical sites is seemingly endless. Like many other European cities, Seville is divided into districts, or barrios. Though the west bank offers nightlife and inexpensive dining, much of the city is located on the east bank of the Guadalquivir River. In the winding streets and public squares of the Barrio de Santa Cruz, a former Jewish quarter, you'll experience Seville as it was centuries ago. The Cathdral of Seville is the world's largest Gothic construction. Begun in 1401, it houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus and marks the center of the city.

Academic Overview

Note: The programs listed below will earn Fairfield University credit and grades.

The University of Seville was founded in 1502, and is located in the heart of the city. The University affords students the opportunity for education on all levels of language acquisition and cultural enrichment.

Pablo de Olavide University was founded in 1997 and is a fully-accredited, state-run institution located on a beautiful 345 acre campus less than 5 miles from Seville's city center. Students use public transportation and a 30- to 45-minute commute to the campus is average. At Pablo de Olavide, a wide variety of courses are offered in both English and Spanish.

Spanish Language and Humanities Program at University of Seville

Courses on various levels are available for students who have completed 3, 4, or 5 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent

Students take 5 courses. This program is for high intermediate to advanced level students who want to study a broader range of courses in Spanish language and culture. Students will take a placement exam upon arrival and be placed into a level based on the exam results. Qualified students may take courses with Spaniards for an additional fee. Students may take four courses from this program and one course from the Spanish Business program.

Spanish Business Program at University of Seville

Students must have completed 4 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent.

Students take 5 courses. This program is for advanced-level students in courses specifically targeted at international and Spanish business concepts and practices. It is a great option for advanced and bilingual students.

Communications Program at University of Seville

Courses are available on two levels for students who have completed 4 or 5 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent. Emphasis on: Film, Radio, Television, Photography, Journalism, International Relations/Communication.

This program is for advanced-level students interested in courses specifically targeted at international and Spanish communications concepts and practices. It is a great option for advanced and bilingual students, since you will take two courses with Spaniards in addition to two courses with other American students. Internship opportunities are available.

Spanish Honors Program at University of Seville

Students must have completed at least 5 semesters of college-level Spanish and have a 3.25 cumulative GPA.

Students in this program take 5 classes: 3 with Spaniards at the University of Seville and two specialized courses with American honors students. Courses in this program are taught at a separate campus of the University of Seville in the Cartuja (old Expo), which provides a wonderful, authentic atmosphere for learning Spanish in a section of town that is not frequented by Americans. Weekly cultural seminars and events, as well as intercambios with Spanish students are required, as a cultural and linguistic assessment project and a language pledge. Excellent program for serious students of Spanish!

Spanish Language, Business, and Applied/Social Sciences Program at Pablo de Olavide University

Courses are available in English and Spanish. Courses in Spanish are available on three levels for students who have completed 2, 4, or 5 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent.

Students take 5 classes per semesters. Students with little or no previous Spanish study can take some elective English courses while studying beginning or intermediate level Spanish. Advanced studetns may take a variety of upper-level content courses in Spanish and/or English. 400-level students may take up to 2 regular classes with Spanish students.

Student Life

Seville offers rich history and inviting people. Much of the life of the city takes place in its streets, plazas, and parks. In addition to regular fiestas, students will find Andalusian culture in the city's museums and monuments as well as in its warm and welcoming people.

During the semester, students will be offered many social and cultural activities, including movies, concerts, theater programs, bullfights, "intercambios" (language exchanges with local students, based on schedules and interested number of students), and more. Entrance fees to these activities are included.

The following excursions are included: Madrid, El Escorial, Toledo, Cordoba, Granada, and more.

Housing

In most locations, students live with host families. Host family living provides a unique opportunity to interact with Spaniards on a daily basis, to live in a home environment, to experience Spanish culture firsthand, and to eat traditional cuisine. Host families may consist of a single señora (with or without children) or may be a traditional two-parent household. Host families provide students with three meals a day, laundry service, linens, and a key to come and go. Families are carefully screened. This will ensure the best reception in your new country.

For students who prefer not to live with host families, other living arrangements may be made, depending on location and availability.

Academic Calendar

For exact dates, please check with the Study Abroad Office.

Costs

Students pay the normal Fairfield University fees for tuition, room, and board. The program cost includes:

• Tuition
• Housing
• Meals and laundry (in homestays)
• Medical and life insurance
• Excursions (overnight and day)
• Social and cultural activities
• On-site directors and staff
• Ground transportation
• Pre-departure and on-site orientation
• Airport receptions
• Mobile phone
• Student services
• Post-program evaluation

Application Procedure

Deadlines: Fall Semester: March 15; Spring semester: October 15

• Application materials are contained in the API catalog. Two faculty recommendations are required.
• All students should schedule an appointment with a study abroad advisor before applying.
• Students should obtain course pre-approval for their semester abroad.