Academic Program Established in 1992, the summer program in Alicante provides an opportunity for short-term, intensive study of the Spanish language, as well as courses in geography and art history. The program is open to qualified undergraduates, graduates, and others with an interest in Spanish language and contemporary Spain. Language instruction is entirely in Spanish and is offered at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Sections of the two content courses, Human and Physical Geography Spanish Mediterranean and The Spanish Tradition in Art, are taught in English and Spanish. Students are required to enroll in a Spanish language course and one content course for a total of 7 semester credit hours.
Students can expect daily homework assignments.
Teaching methods in Council courses are a combination of lecture and participatory styles. Program professors are familiar with second-language teaching methodology, have several years teaching experience in Spain and abroad, and use a variety of teaching methods. Furthermore, they have been working with American, European, and other foreign students for many years and are familiar with the expectations of foreign students. Each professor distributes a detailed syllabus indicating what material is covered, when exams are held, and what is expected from each student. Attendance is mandatory and unexcused absences affect final grades.