Spain: Language, Art, & History in Madrid & Barcelona
Program
Students will visit Madrid and Barcelona for an immersive cultural and academic experience. The group will be based in Madrid, where we will explore several internationally renowned museums and historic sites such as the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Royal Palace, El Escorial, Plaza Mayor, the San Miguel Market, CaixaForum Madrid, and El Retiro Park. These visits will introduce students to Spain’s artistic heritage, political history, and vibrant contemporary culture.
As part of the program, students will also take a short trip to Barcelona. There, we will experience the distinct cultural identity of Catalonia through visits to major landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, the Gothic Quarter, and other iconic works by Antoni Gaudí. This extension to Barcelona allows students to compare two of Spain’s most influential urban centers.
Itinerary
- Explore Madrid’s museums and historic landmarks
- Experience local culture, markets, and city life
- Travel to Barcelona and visit iconic sites
- Discover Spanish art, history, and architecture
Academics
WLC215 is designed to provide a practical foundation for your upcoming study abroad trip to Spain. The course focuses on building the essential communication skills you will need in cities like Madrid and Barcelona through a variety of online activities, including vocabulary and grammar reviews and listening exercises. These tasks are intended to help you either refresh your current Spanish or establish a solid baseline before departure. A key component of the class is a research project where you can explore a specific interest—such as a historical figure, a landmark, or a cultural topic you are curious about—allowing you to establish a personal connection to the locations you will visit. Ultimately, the course aims to ensure you arrive feeling grounded and prepared to navigate your time abroad with confidence.
Faculty Leaders
Diana Artunduaga, M.A., is an Undergraduate Admissions Counselor at Georgian Court University and a former international student from Colombia. She is passionate about supporting students and families as they navigate the college search process and discover global opportunities. Diana holds a Master’s in Integrative Health from GCU and is currently completing her MBA.
Dr. Jaime Antonio Rivera Flores, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of World Languages and Cultures at Georgian Court University, where he teaches Spanish, Italian, and courses in language and culture. He has led four study abroad programs in Spain (2012, 2013, 2016, and 2019) and one in Italy (2023), guiding students through immersive experiences that connect classroom learning with real cultural engagement. His teaching emphasizes accessibility, curiosity, and meaningful exploration, helping students navigate new places with confidence and cultural awareness.
Program Costs
*Please contact the Office of Global Education for more details- [email protected]
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