Description

The Language in Context study abroad program in Valparaiso, Chile is designed for students from all academic disciplines who are keen on studying abroad in Latin America and have little to no Spanish language background. The program is ideal for students who are eager to experience academic life at a Chilean university, but may not be ready to take courses instructed in Spanish. The program offers students the unique opportunity to take courses in English and study Spanish language at the Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso. Students will live and study in one of Chile's most picturesque and culturally vibrant cities, studying contemporary Chile and Latin America at one of Chile's top universities. Housing, coursework, excursions, and student services are specifically tailored to students with beginner and intermediate Spanish language skills. This program is most appropriate for students who want to take courses in literature, history, international relations, and Latin American studies, although coursework in other disciplines is also offered.

Academic Program
The CIEE Study Center in Valparaiso and Viña del Mar, Chile began welcoming participants in 1997. It is an attractive option for several reasons, including the academic offerings available at PUCV, as well as the student-friendly nature of both Valparaiso and Viña del Mar. The program is intended for students who have little to no college-level Spanish, who are looking for a program that permits them to rapidly develop Spanish language skills, as well as immerse themselves in Chilean and Latin American studies on a university campus. The program provides personalized instruction and support through both academic and non-academic activities. The program is suitable for undergraduate students from a variety of majors with limited or no Spanish language skills. All non-language courses are taught in English.

Academic Culture
Average class size is 10 to 15 students. All courses are taught by local Chilean faculty. Students will notice significant differences between their home institutions and educational system and the Chilean model. Chilean academic culture generally requires students to take greater initiative and responsibility in a less structured environment. Courses tend to be more lecture-based and less interactive. Students are expected to take it upon themselves to know the requirements of the course, their assignments, and exams. Students in the program have support in this regard from both the CIEE Study Center staff as well as staff from the PUCV International Programs office. It is important to understand that the program takes place at a Chilean University with native Spanish instructors, and therefore students may notice differences in teaching styles. Courses typically meet every morning or afternoon, Monday to Friday, for a minimum of three hours daily, with structured fieldtrips and activities incorporated into each course. The academic year program includes two semesters of study and can begin either during the North American fall or spring semester. Academic year students who begin their studies during the North American fall semester have a nearly three-month break between semesters during which they are encouraged to travel or study elsewhere in the region. There is a break of approximately two weeks between the (North American) spring and fall semesters.