The Barcelona Semester

Program Spotlight A superb study abroad experience awaits: courses in history, community development, health, and more; exciting excursions throughout Spain; nearby white-sand beaches; and life in this beautiful Mediterranean city.

The Barcelona Semester at Barcelona International College (BIC) begins with airport pickup at the Barcelona International Airport by a CIS staff member and then drop-off at your accommodation site.  Semester at Barcelona International College is unique because of the hands-on activities, excursions, and assistance provided by our in-country site director.  From the moment you step off the plane, our site director will be your mentor and guide.  You’ll learn about life in Barcelona and at Spanish universities, the unique characteristics of Spain’s university system, and how to make the most of your time in Barcelona socially, culturally, and academically.

Your time in Barcelona will be wonderful! The best beaches in Western Europe will be a short trip from your front door. If you grow tired of the sun and the sand, Barcelona is a mecca for culture enthusiasts with its dazzling array of art exhibitions, theater and dance performances, film festivals, concerts, lectures, and other events. There are interesting things happening every single day. The concert series at the Palau de la Musica Catalana and the Liceu Opera House host top-notch performers from all over the world, while the Caixa Forum has several museums throughout the city that offer free world-class exhibitions all year round. And on the first Sunday of every month, the city opens the doors to all municipal museums free of charge to encourage people to enjoy the best of the city.

Our CIS on-site staff will take you to the Spanish cinema, a flamenco show, and the museums and markets. They can also help you arrange a language exchange partner, or intercambio, and a Catalan cooking class. You will also have the option of a weekend excursion outside of Barcelona. Possible destinations include Costa Brava, Granada, or Madrid. And you can enjoy a 3-day weekend in Morocco, for an additional fee. Stay in a Bedouin tent and ride a camel!  Whether or not you decide to partake of the cultural events and excursions, our CIS site director and staff will be there to lend you a helping hand every step of the way.