Academic Focus
The Spanish Language & Mexican Culture program at the University of Guadalajara is designed for students of all language levels who are interested in learning about Mexican culture while improving their Spanish language skills. Language courses are taught in 5-week blocks and each semester consists of three 5-week blocks. You will be tested at the end of each block and may move into higher language levels during your semester. During the first 5-week block you will also take a Mexican culture elective. During the second and third 5-week blocks you may choose two electives from a number of courses offered. Until and including Fall 2007, electives are taught in both English and Spanish. Spanish electives are taught on 5-week blocks while English electives run the length of the entire semester.
Beginning with Spring 2008, the Spanish Language & Mexican Culture program at the University of Guadalajara is designed for students of intermediate language levels and above who are interested in learning about Mexican culture while improving their Spanish language skills. Language courses are taught in 5-week blocks and each semester consists of three 5-week blocks. You will be tested at the end of each block and may move into higher language levels during your semester. Once you have reached high intermediate level you may choose electives from a number of Mexican Culture electives offered.
All courses, both language and elective, meet for 50 contact hours. At the end of the semester program, students will have taken five courses, which typically translates into 18 credits in the US semester system. Transcripts will reflect all levels taken and individual grades for each course.
Schedule Summary
Language classes and electives generally meet for four hours in the morning between 8am and 12 noon. Occasionally students also take an afternoon elective. Students will be in class for four hours each day.
Course Registration
All students are required to complete an elective selection form prior to departure. This form must be returned to the CEA Tempe office with your confirmation deposit, or no later than the application closure date for your program. You will automatically be registered for your language courses.
You will begin your session with a placement exam. You will then be placed in classes with other students of your own language level. Language courses are offered at ten different language levels. In order to ensure that you receive credit for the level that you place into, it is in your best interest to have courses at several levels approved by your academic advisor prior to departure.
