THE CITY

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a city with a relatively short history in comparison to other European capitals. Selected to become the principal city in the second part of the 16th century, Madrid has become a modern, diverse and important city with more than five million inhabitants. The culture of the city is thriving, with the center of the city crowded until very late at night. Known for its nocturnal life, the majority of restaurants, taperias, clubs and music venues are open until early morning.

Madrid has experienced much growth. There are various modern districts and new buildings and offices, but locals can still find much of the old Madrid and its buildings integrated in the city. Famous landmarks and museums have made the city extremely attractive to tourists, and the financial activity makes Madrid very important to the country’s economics. Among the most famous attractions in Madrid is the Museo del Prado that contains numerous famous paintings from artists like El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya. The collection is so large that only half of the collection is displayed at a time. Other famous places to visit are Parque del Buen Retiro, the Plaza Mayor, la Puerta del Sol, and the Palacio Real.

THE UNIVERSITY

The Marquette Study Center makes its home within the Universidad Complutense de Madrid — one of Spain’s oldest, largest and most prestigious universities. Marquette University faculty member, professor Dr. Anne Pasero, accompanies the group and provides on-the-ground support. As a student, you’ll be able to integrate yourself into the campus life through daily contact with Spanish faculty and staff. You’ll also have complete usage of Complutense’s facilities - libraries, computers, sports fields and cafeterias, as well as cultural and academic events sponsored by the university.

The program begins with a short orientation led by the Marquette faculty director to orient students to the city, culture, and language. Students are required to enroll in two courses (6 credits) and to participate in the weekend excursions to other regions of Spain.

ACADEMICS

Orientation
An orientation will be held prior to departure

Courses offered
Students are required to enroll in two courses (6 credits). Courses are offered on the Universidad Complutense campus with other U.S. students. Courses are taught by Complutense professors, as well as the faculty director.

Because these are Marquette courses, grades will appear on the MU transcript and will factor into students’ GPA.   

Courses generally offered include:
• SPAN 2001: Intermediate Spanish 1
• SPAN 2002: Intermediate Spanish 2
• SPAN 3001: Grammar Review and Writing
• SPAN 3002: Spoken Spanish
• SPAN 3100: Advanced Spanish Composition and Conversation
• SPAN 3300: Peoples and Cultures of Spain
• SPAN 3320: Contemporary Issues in the Hispanic World
• SPAN 3710: Introduction to Spanish for the Health Professions

HOUSING

Students in this program stay with a host family or a student residence.

VISA & TRAVEL

Click on the link below for visa and travel details specific to Spain.

Visa and Travel - Spain