Arabic Cultural Studies in Granada
2010 Spring Semester - Early Start - Academics

Academic Focus

The Arabic Cultural Studies in Granada program is designed for students with an interest in Spain’s multicultural history. Drawing on Granada’s unique multicultural history and Southern European location, this program examines the city’s Islamic legacy, established during almost 800 years of Muslim rule. The city of Granada offers rich cultural opportunities, from enjoying tea with traditional Arab pastries at the Albaycin, to experiencing the Alhambra Palace at sunset. Course options include both Spanish and Arabic language (taught in Spanish), plus topics in Andalusian and Islamic culture and history. Students at the Beginner and Intermediate levels of Spanish language study will enroll in two Spanish language courses, plus two or three cultural electives taught in English.Advanced students will enroll in one Spanish language course, plus three or four electives. Excursion options include a 3-night field trip to Morocco.

Early Start

This program also features a unique Early Start option, where you will arrive early and take an intensive language preparation course. This course, which is four weeks in length during the fall and three weeks in length during the spring semester, is focused on grammar and conversation and is designed to help you adjust to the university setting and prepare you for the semester placement exam. Please note, students interested in taking electives in Spanish are strongly encouraged to take the Early Start program to ensure they reach the required language level.

All courses meet for a total of 45 contact hours each semester. Students generally receive 3 semester credits per course, for a total of 12 - 15 credits per semester. The intensive language preparation course meets for 80 hours in the Fall and 60 hours in the Spring. Student who opt to participate in the Early Start option typically receive an additional 4 or 5 semester credits. Note, any student who needs additional contact hours for a semester course or a language preparation course can make arrangements on a case-by-case basis for an additional fee. Students with an advanced level of Spanish can take up to two electives as Integrated Courses with Spanish students. The list of Integrated Courses will be available once onsite. Please note these courses meet a total of 60 hours rather than 45.

Schedule Summary

During the fall semester, all courses will meet for 4 hours each week, while during the spring semester all courses meet for 3 hours each week. Classes will be held on Mondays/Wednesdays or Tuesday/Thursdays at various times throughout the day. During the intensive language portion of the program, students will meet Monday through Friday for a total of 20 hours per week. Class times vary and your final course schedule will be determined onsite.

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 program confirmation, or no later than the application closure date for your program. You will automatically be registered for your language courses.

You will be given a Spanish language placement exam on the first day of class. Though you will register for courses prior to your departure for Spain, final registration will not take place until after your language level has been assessed. You will receive further information regarding registration deadlines after acceptance to the program. To aid in the registration process, it is in your best interest to have courses, including alternates, approved by your academic advisor prior to departure. Any changes to your course selection after registrations have been finalized must be coordinated through the onsite director.