About the Program
RWU has teamed up with The Barcelona Architecture Center (BAC) to offer a specialized study abroad program. Barcelona, known as the "City of Architects", is one of the European capitals of architecture and urbanism and serves as not only a focal point but also a launching pad for students to visit other continental destinations. Courses at BAC are taught in English and no previous Spanish experience is required. Students will be enrolled in a Spanish Language and Culture course to assist with the students cultural adaptation. The Barcelona program follows a semester calendar with a 15-week fall session, a 15-week spring session.
About the Area
BAC is located in the Eixample district of Barcelona. The section of the city was constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries by Idefons Cerda. This district offers students a wealth of architectural landmarks to discover and is in close to proximity to museums, monuments and cultural centers particular to Barcelona, such as Las Ramblas.
About Student Life
The Barcelona program at BAC offers a specialized program for qualified students of architecture. This program allows students to be immersed in local and European architecture and urban design culture. Barcelona is a vibrant and exciting city that students will be able to explore and connect with. Barcelona’s location provides easy access to not only the many Spanish regions of interest but also many other European cities for short trips and excursions.
Students are eligible to apply if they meet the following:
- 2.75 cumulative GPA
- Third Year students and Graduate Students
- Good judicial Standing
- Dean and Advisor Approval
Fall and spring students enroll for 12-16 credits including the Spanish language course; part-time study is not permitted during the semester. Students enroll in the following courses: Design Studio, Field Studies Course, Contemporary European Architecture, History of European Cities, Design Philosophy/Design Communications, Sustainable Architecture, Spanish Language and Culture
RWU students are housed in accommodations provided by The Student Hotel, which is an international student dormitory. These high quality accommodations allow students double occupancy rooms with their own en-suite bathrooms, students lounge space, on site laundry, shared kitchens on each floor and roof top pools. The accommodations are located in the @22 neighborhood which is close to the waterfront and the Ciutadella Park. It is in walking distance or a short Metro ride away from BAC.
Spring semester begins during the second week of January; Fall Semester begins during the last week in August.
Program Cost
Semester charges will be billed to the students by RWU following normal RWU billing and payment schedules.
- RWU tuition as normal. Financial Aid is portable to approved and affiliated study abroad programs.
- RWU housing charge based on a standard, two person room rate.
- Full time Student Semester and Tech Fees
- RWU Study Away Fee of $1000
* Meal Plan charges will not be applied to this program, it is considered self-catered.
* The RWU in Florence and RWU in Barcelona/Architecture program will also have a Program Fee included in the billing. This amount includes the round trip airfare, international health insurance coverage, visa and immigration services.
•Students should note that personal expenses that are associated with studying abroad such as supplies, books, personal spending are not included in this break down. Students should consult with the Spiegel Center for more budgeting information.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
RWU students applying to RWU-sponsored semester study abroad programs are able to carry financial aid over to semester abroad charges. Students can apply for the scholarship(s) at the same time they submit their application for a semester program abroad.
The Bridging the World Scholarship:
Scholarships awards based on financial need and academic merit
The Morris Award:
Scholarship awards based on financial need only (limited funds available)
Health & Safety Abroad
Students should review the U.S. State Department’s consular information website for complete information on safety and security (
https://www.state.gov/travel/).
Click here for a printable brochure of the information found on this page.
