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First-Year Program

Mosaic of Spain: Language, Culture & Politics

EF study abroad student sits on a wall and writes
Spend a semester living and learning in Spain with EF Study Abroad.

12 CREDITS | 12 WEEKS

Immerse yourself in Spanish culture with a curated curriculum taught at both EF’s International Language Campus in Malaga and the University of Granada Center for Modern Languages; throughout your semester, travel on Field Excursions designed to bring learning to life in global cities like Amsterdam, Tangier, and Madrid. You’ll return home with transferable college credit and a greater global perspective, ready to chart your unique course through college and your career. 

Upcoming travel dates:
Spring 2025: January 16–April 13 (FULL)

Program components
Coursework

Learn more about the history and culture of the Arab-Islamic world; engage with Islam as a cultural phenomenon and fundamental religion in Arab history, as well as the socio-political development of Al-Andalus.

This course will teach you to develop a dynamic understanding of current political workings in Spain and the EU; you'll learn the basic foundations of contemporary politics as well as different methods for interpreting political reality.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of local self-sustainable cultures, models, and practices in the Mediterranean region. Compare community practices with local governance in the region, participate in case studies, and understand influential factors on the sustainability of Granada and its surrounding areas.

Discover Chefchaouen, Morocco, during your Culture & Religion in Morocco Field Excursion. This city is known for its' iconic blue-washed buildings, as well as traditions of leather and weaving craftsmanship.

Program Itinerary

Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to availability and local conditions at the time of departure.

Orientation

3 Days

Malaga, Spain beach on a study abroad program

Málaga: Arrival & Orientation

3 DAYS

MÁLAGA, SPAIN

Attend orientation in the seaside city of Málaga, where you’ll meet your cohort; embark on a walking tour and enjoy dinner as a group to celebrate your arrival.

Coursework

18 Days

EF Study Abroad in Malaga

Málaga: Language Immersion

18 DAYS

MÁLAGA, SPAIN

Study at the EF International Language School campus, where you’ll be placed in a Spanish language course based on your current proficiency level. Take classes alongside other language learners from around the world, build your vocabulary, and strengthen your communication skills to make the most of your semester in Spain through a holistic, immersive learning experience. On weekends, enjoy exploring this vibrant seaside city on your own.

Field Excursion

3 Days

Madrid, Spain study abroad

Madrid: Spain, Yesterday & Today

3 DAYS

MADRID, SPAIN

Flex your newfound language skills while exploring Spain's capital city. Engage with the past as you visit world-renowned historic sites, then embrace Madrid's future by meeting with locals leading a new generation of innovation.

Coursework

18 Days

EF study abroad students in a classroom

Granada: Start your Studies

18 DAYS

UNIVERSITY OF GRANADA, SPAIN

Begin your studies at the University of Granada. As you embark on your courses specifically designed for your cohort of fellow EF students, you'll start your journey into the politics and culture of the region. Settle into life as a student in beautiful Granada.

Field Excursion

3 Days

study abroad program in Amsterdam

Amsterdam & The Hague: European Politics

3 DAYS

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Discover Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, with a visit to the Anne Frank House and an Indonesian or Surinamese (both former Dutch colonies) cooking class, then enjoy free time to explore the canals, cobblestone streets, and world-class museums on your own

Coursework

18 Days

EF study abroad students in a classroom

Granada: Living & Learning

18 DAYS

UNIVERSITY OF GRANADA, SPAIN

Continue your studies at the University of Granada as you dive deeper into your coursework. Settle into life in Granada as you get into your routine, find your favorite spots around town, make new friends, and see your courses come to life.

Field Excursion

3 Days

EF Study Abroad program in Morocco

Tangier: Culture & Religion in Morocco

2 DAYS

TANGIER, MOROCCO

Cross the Strait of Gibraltar to spend a long weekend in Tangier, where you'll explore the relationship between Morocco and Spain, as well as the influence of Islamic culture and religion on the region, while traveling to the nation's historic sites.

study abroad program in Morocco

Chefchaouen: Exploring Traditions

1 DAY

CHEFCHAOUEN, MOROCCO

Travel to Chefchaouen to see the iconic, blue-washed buildings of its old town and explore the traditions of leather and weaving crafts.

Coursework

21 Days

Study Abroad students in a classroom

Granada: Coursework in Action

21 DAYS

UNIVERSITY OF GRANADA, SPAIN

In your final course, gain a comprehensive understanding of local self-sustainable cultures, models, and practices in the Mediterranean region. Compare community practices with local governance in the region, participate in case studies, and understand influential factors on the sustainability of Granada and its surrounding areas.

Get to know EF Málaga

With Mediterranean coastline and a mountainous backdrop, Málaga has an authentic Spanish vibe that makes it impossible not to live like a local. Our 20th-century Mediterranean villa-style International Language School campus is located a short walk from the picturesque El Palo Beach, famously lined with charming restaurants and shops.

    What's included

    The program fee for this 12-week program is $18,750, and payment plans are available. For detailed budgeting information, see a full program guide available here.

    Tuition includes:

    • Field Excursions

      Field Excursions and hands-on workshops with local experts.

    • Flights & transportation

      Round-trip flights and local transfers to each stop in your itinerary

    • Room & board

      Housing at apartment-style residences in both Málaga and Granada as well as hotels during your Field Excursions.

    • Guided learning

      Full-time, on-the-ground support from an EF Student Life Coordinator with additional support from the EF Language Campus staff, your EF Field Director, and your EF Program Director.

    • Tuition & coursework

      Your classes at the EF Language School in Málaga and your pre-selected coursework at University of Granada.

    • EF Global Support Network

      One-on-one mentorship and support before and during your program.

    Ready to get started?

    Our Program Consultants are ready to answer any questions you and your family may have, then they’ll work with you to plan an experience that expands your horizons and meets your goals.

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