The Barcelona Program for Interdisciplinary Studies (BaPIS) stands at the heart of UPF’s strategy for internationalization and innovation. Designed to foster global collaboration and intellectual growth, this program provides a unique platform for students from diverse backgrounds—both from UPF and around the world—to come together and engage in enriching academic dialogue.
A Space for Dialogue and Collaborative Learning
BaPIS encourages a dynamic exchange between students and professors, creating a collaborative environment where ideas flow freely across disciplines. By convening participants from different academic and cultural backgrounds, the program cultivates a space for meaningful discussions and communal learning that enhances the educational experience.
Breaking Down Barriers, Building Knowledge
At the core of BaPIS is its interdisciplinary approach. The program challenges traditional academic boundaries by blending STEM disciplines, Communication, Humanities, and Social Sciences. This cross-fertilization of ideas not only enriches student perspectives but also fosters innovative thinking, equipping participants with the tools to tackle today’s complex global challenges.
Hands-On, Practical Learning
BaPIS goes beyond traditional classroom learning by emphasizing hands-on experiences that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Whether through collaborative projects, field studies, or interdisciplinary research, the program empowers students to develop practical skills while engaging with cutting-edge issues across multiple fields.
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1990, the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) is one of Barcelona's newest institutions and has quickly become world-renowned campus, earning Spain’s #1 university ranking in 2022. Known for its academic rigor and exceptional faculty, UPF offers courses for both international and local students, encouraging greater interaction in the classroom.
Students can also join clubs, participate in the Language Partner program, and engage in cultural activities for a well-rounded experience. Courses are open to both international and local students, which means there's more opportunity for interaction with locals on campus.
The library at the UPF, Dipòsit de les Aigües, was once a water supply building and is now a beautiful space often featured in Spanish films and television. Located next to Ciutadella park and just three blocks from the beach, this modern campus provides plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the city.
BaPIS has evolved from a previous study abroad program, the Hispanic and European Studies Program (HESP). After two decades of success and expansion, HESP has developed into a radically different project while maintaining its goal of promoting intercultural understanding in our increasingly interconnected world. Its new direction is aimed at local and international students, offering them a range of subjects to explore from a common perspective and in an exceptional intellectual and urban environment.
REQUIREMENTS
Minimum G.P.A. Requirement
Class Requirement
Language Requirement
- Although helpful, no previous Spanish language knowledge is required.
Age Requirement
- All participants must be 18 years of age by the start date of the program.
If you have any questions about whether you meet the requirements, please contact us and we’d be happy to help you decide which Barcelona SAE program is right for you!
ACADEMICS
The Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) and Barcelona SAE have worked hard to create a study abroad program that allows you to earn credits towards your major, minor, or general electives. The courses are designed for international students, meaning that you will be able to take courses in English and/or have the advantage of learning in Spanish at a pace for non-native or fluent speakers.
Accreditation
The Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education as a degree granting institution of higher learning. After completing a Barcelona SAE program at the UPF, the transcript will be sent directly to the student’s home institution.
Course Approval
Before you go abroad, Barcelona SAE strongly recommends that you meet with your study abroad office and/or your academic advisor at your home institution, and are as transparent as possible about your plans. After your acceptance into the program, you will be required to submit an “Approval Contact for Study Abroad” form that will automatically inform your home institution of your intent to participate in a Barcelona SAE program. The earlier that you plan for your study abroad experience, the easier it will be to get your courses pre-approved and know exactly what transfer credit will be accepted at your home institution. Please remember that it is best to get multiple back up courses pre-approved, as this will give you some flexibility in setting up your class schedule or during the add/drop period. Think about courses that can work towards your major or minor, as well as courses that may fulfill your general education or elective requirements.
Course Options
Your courses will be taught in English or Spanish and will primarily be lectures with some teamwork involved. Students will be in class at the UPF with other international students.
Courses
Please
click here to view the available courses for this program under the academics tab.
STUDENT LIFE
Students are in for an action-packed time abroad, and the Barce-Local experience will extend far beyond the walls of the classroom. In addition to organizing a wide range of cultural activities that immerse students in the local culture, Barcelona SAE also provides a Weekly Cultural Agenda, detailing events happening throughout the city. In addition, each student is paired with a Cultural Mentor who will assist in getting involved in clubs and/or activities based on their personal interests.
The program also includes a day trip(s) which blend historical tours with modern experiences, encouraging students to get off the beaten path to discover Spain through a local lens.
?And when students are not with us, they’ll have access to our Barcelona SAE Bucket List with 100 unique and exciting ways to experience the city! From attending a Barça game and exploring the Picasso Museum, to window shopping in the unique Gràcia district or discovering new restaurants with Spanish friends...the list offers endless possibilities.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
The BaPIS Semester Program at the UPF Includes:
Countdown to Barcelona:
- Group Webinar and Pre-Departure Preparation
- Personalized Advising
While in Barcelona:
- UPF Tuition and Fees
- Official University Transcript from the Universitat Pompeu Fabra
- Bienvenid@s a Barcelona – Airport Welcome Service
- Logistical & Cultural Orientations
- Housing for the Duration of Program (Homestays include Breakfast/Dinner!)
- Comprehensive Medical & Accident Insurance
- 24-Hour Emergency Support
- English-Speaking Staff
Cultural & Social Activities:
- The Barcelona SAE Bucket List
- Day Trip(s) Outside of Barcelona - Exact # and Locations Dependent on Term
- Optional Weekend Excursion to Morocco (Additional Cost Applies)
- Weekly Cultural Agenda (The Local Perspective of What’s Happening Each Week!)
- Weekly Cultural Activities (Cooking Classes, Dance Lessons, Intercambios, Barrio Tours, and MORE!)
- Cultural Mentor Program
- Welcome Activity
- Re-Entry Workshop & Farewell Meal
For Continued Success After the Program:
- Alumni & Career Services
- Invitation to Barcelona SAE’s LinkedIn Alumni Group
- Opportunity to Apply to be a “Barcelona SAE Alumni Ambassador” on Your Home Campus
- Invitations to Study Abroad & Internship Returnee Conferences Throughout the U.S.
The Program Does Not Include:
- Round-Trip Airfare to/from Barcelona
- Visa Costs (If Applicable)
- Mobile Phones & Charges
- Local Transportation
- Personal Items
HOUSING
Barcelona SAE offers our students a variety of housing options, which means that we have the perfect place in Barcelona for you to call your home away from home. We have carefully selected safe and adequate housing for each student but each living arrangement is different.
Please click here for more information regarding our housing options.
APPLY NOW!
So…what are you waiting for? Apply Now and get ready to embark on the Barcelona experience of a lifetime!
