Founded in 1499, the University of Alcalá offers a number of academic programs as well as various social and cultural opportunities for students hoping to “live” the Spanish language in every sense. Through Duquesne’s agreement with CIEE, students can take courses in the following three schools: Philosophy and Letters (Filosofía y Letras), Economics and Business (Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales), and Law (Derecho).

Alcalá, Spain is a rich cultural center designated as a World Heritage city by UNESCO, the birthplace of Cervantes, and the official Spanish city promoting Spanish language and culture throughout the world. Alcalá’s population of 160,000, including approximately 16,000 university students, boasts a growing number of immigrant groups from Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe. Alcalá’s historic center is a unique mix of harmonious streets, noble architecture dating back to the 16th century, convents, shops, restaurants, tapas bars, entertainment venues, and graceful storks which nest on the tops of buildings.

Program Type
Third-party provider agreement through the Council for International Education and Exchange (CIEE), facilitated by Duquesne University’s OIP.

Academic Highlights
Business Spanish, economics, history, linguistics, marketing, social science, Spanish culture, Spanish history, Spanish language, humanities.

Courses Available at Alcalá

Language of Instruction
Spanish - Students are required to have a 3.0 GPA in most recent Spanish class;

Spring applicants must have a minimum of 5 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent; Fall applicants must have a minimum of 4 semesters of college-level Spanish or equivalent.

Academic Calendar
Fall Semester: late August or early September to mid-December
Spring Semester: early January - late April

Housing and Meals
University of Alcalá’s CIEE program offers a choice between living with a local host family or living in the university residence as a roommate with other Spanish or international students. Students in Spanish homes enjoy their meals at the place of residence. Students in the University residences receive a meal stipend and enjoy their meals in University-run facilities or prepare their own.

Services Provided
CIEE is a reputable provider in study abroad and has run the program in Alcalá since 1999. A native Spanish Resident Director is located in Alcalá to assist students with academic, administrative, and day-to-day matters. An orientation is conducted each semester to help students settle into their new environment. Students enrolled at the University of Alcalá are also able to participate in various university sports teams and other student activities sponsored by CIEE, the Institute, and the University. CIEE also organizes a diverse excursion and activities program with trips to various historical parts of Spain.

Estimated Costs (Category I Program)

Scholarships available through CIEE.

For a more in-depth look: www.ciee.org