Spanish Language and Culture in Cuenca, Spain

Students will fly to Madrid and then travel together to Cuenca, Spain, a historic city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning hanging houses (casas colgadas) that are perched on the cliffs overlooking the Huécar River. The city's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features cobblestone streets, Gothic churches and the impressive Cathedral of Santa María and San Julián.

Students will spend two weeks living in and exploring Cuenca. Studying at the True Spanish Experience Center, students will have the opportunity to socialize and practice their Spanish with local peers. Excursions include a guided tour of the historical center, a visit to the Museum of Abstract Art, and a cooking workshop. Students will also have the opportunity to experience flamenco lessons, canoeing on the river, trekking, and a tapas tour. The program offers a rich blend of educational and cultural activities that provide a comprehensive understanding of Spanish life and culture. 

Requirements: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Students who do not meet the GPA requirement may still be eligible and should speak with OU’s International Education Office prior to applying.

Ideally students will have already taken one Spanish semester of college-level Spanish for the equivalent before they go on this study abroad experience, but this can be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Courses: Students will receive credit for one of the following courses, according to their prior Spanish level:

SPN 1150: (4 credits) A second semester in the fundamentals of Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. This course is a continuation of SPN 1140.

SPN 2140: (4 credits) An intermediate course that continues the work of SPN 1140 and SPN 1150 with additional emphasis on cultural and literary readings.

SPN 2150: (4 credits) An intermediate course that continues the work of SPN 2140 with additional emphasis on cultural and literary readings for students with significant experience in Spanish.

Classes will be conducted in Spanish and will be held at the True Spanish Experience Center in Cuenca. Credits count toward the major, minor or modified major in Spanish. The class is offered as a Summer I course, with the first week on campus followed by two weeks abroad in Spain.

Each student earns four total credits.

While in Spain, students will live with a host family. Placements are made with your preferences taken into consideration, and every effort is made to meet special dietary requirements. Each student will have a private room. Homestays are located throughout Cuenca within walking distance of the True Spanish Experience Center and the city center, and include three meals per day with the family and light laundry.

Tuition: 4 Credits

You will be charged for these credits on your eBill at your normal rate of tuition.

Program Fee: $2,600

To be paid to OU on our MarketPlace payment system and includes: housing and most meals, ground transportation and all excursions while in Spain, and health insurance

• Additional Costs: $2,025

You will need additional funds for these expenses not covered by the program fee. Amounts are estimated.

• Airfare: $1,600
• Incidental personal expenses: $200
• Meals: $200
• Passport (if you don't have one): $175

Scholarships and Financial Aid: You are able to use financial aid to cover your full cost of attendance to this program (tuition, program fee, and additional costs). Scholarships are also available through your study abroad application.