Open to Pitzer students only. Program options subject to change.
Program Title: Pitzer/ISEP Exchange with Universidad de Murcia
Location: Murcia, Spain
Host Website: ISEP: Universidad de Murcia
Regular University Courses (in Spanish)
Eligibility
Students must be in good standing at Pitzer College. ISEP requires students to have a minimum 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Completion of Spanish 44 or higher or a demonstrated equivalency must be completed prior to the program. Literature level coursework in Spanish is highly recommended.
Preparation
At least one area studies course is strongly recommended before participation. Other general preparation options include: Comparative Politics, Intercultural Communications, Introduction to International/ Intercultural Studies, Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology
Application
Students must first apply through Pitzer’s Office of Study Abroad and International Programs. If accepted by Pitzer, students will complete the ISEP Exchange application. If accepted by ISEP, students will then complete the University application.
Program Dates
Fall semester (= Semester 2): Mid-September to late January
Spring semester (= Semester 1): Late January to to late June
Full year: Mid-September to late June
Note: Students must conform their stay to the University of Murcia’s Academic Calendar.
Required Courses
Participants are required to take a full course load equivalent to four Pitzer course credits including one course with content on Spanish history, politics, literature or culture. In addition, students take the Pitzer course MLLC110 Intercultural Learning: Portfolio Writing via Sakai.
Intensive Language
A one and a half week pre-session, intensive Spanish language course is offered before each semester for multiple levels. Intensive Spanish language courses are offered in addition to regular classes taught in Spanish during the academic year.
Independent Study
See a Study Abroad Adviser.
Course Options
Visit the ISEP website shown above and select ‘Website for Course Availability.’
For year-long courses, some professors will let students take the fall component and issue grades at the end of the semester. Other professors only issue the fall grades after the end of the academic year.
Credit Possible
Pitzer students take a full course load of 30 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) which is the equivalent of four Pitzer course credits. Most courses are worth 6 ECTS so students typically 5 courses. In addition to a full course load at the university, students will earn 0.5 Pitzer course credits for the writing course via Sakai. (See above under Required Courses.)
Housing and Board Options
Students live in shared flats with other students in the city. A stipend will be provided to cover housing and meals.
Additional notes
The chance of placement is generally good.
Visa Process: Students should note that the Spanish visa process is extensive and typically takes 90 days to complete. Once students receive instructions and needed documents, they should begin the visa process ASAP. To apply for the visa students must complete the application, gather needed documents, make an online appointment and appear in person at their local Spanish consulate. Some students may need to travel to get to a consulate. To get an idea of what to expect for the visa appointment, please visit: Los Angeles Consulate website.
