Advanced & Integrated Studies
2010 Spring Semester - Early Start - Academics

Academic Focus

This program is designed for students at an advanced level of Spanish language proficiency who are ready to refine and cultivate their language skills while taking a more in-depth look into Latin American culture through integrated courses with Chilean students. Students will take two Spanish language courses and/or culture electives to facilitate their language study. Additionally, students will enroll in two integrated courses offered through the University of Viña del Mar’s regular course listing. This will allow students to experience immersion into the Chilean university system by taking content courses with host national students. Integrated classes at the University of Viña del Mar are taught in a wide variety of subject areas, allowing students to earn credits toward their major or fulfill additional graduation requirements.

Early Start

This program also features a unique Early Start option in the fall semester. Students will arrive early and take a four-week intensive language preparation program comprised of two courses focused on grammar, conversation and listening comprehension. The early start program is designed to help students adjust to the university setting and prepare for the semester placement exam and integrated coursework. While this program is geared toward advanced students, students at the high intermediate level are invited to participate in the early start option to advance their language skills. If they test into the advanced level at the end of the program, they may enroll in the Advanced & Integrated Studies program.

The contact hours for Spanish language courses vary but generally range from 64 to 90 hours per semester, and are typically worth 4 to 6 credits each in the US semester system. Culture electives meet for 46 or 54 hours per semester and are generally worth 3 credits in the US semester system while integrated courses meet for 64 hours and are typically worth 4 credits. Students receive a total of 14 - 18 credits per semester. Students participating in the Early Start option will receive an additional 90 contact hours of language instruction, which is usually worth 6 credits in the US semester system.

Schedule Summary

Spanish language courses will meet for 4-6 hours per week while elective and integrated courses typically meet for 4 hours per week. Spanish language classes are generally scheduled in the mornings allowing for access to integrated and elective coursework throughout the remainder of the day. Class times and course schedules can vary greatly depending on course selections and final course schedules will be determined onsite.

Course Registration

Course registration at the university will take place upon arrival in Viña del Mar. To aid in the registration process, it is in the student’s best interest to have courses at different levels, as well as alternates, approved by their academic advisor prior to departure. Language level will be determined onsite by a placement exam. Any changes to course selections after registration has been finalized will be considered after the placement exam has taken place and must be coordinated through the onsite director in Viña del Mar.