Step beyond the classroom and into the story of Spain's struggle, resilience, and change. Learn how activists, workers, students, and community organizations have challenged powerful institutions and transformed Spanish society. This program explores the origins, dynamics, and impact of social movements through major turning points in Spain's modern history—from the conflicts preceding the Civil War and life under Franco's dictatorship to the transition to democracy and the response to the global financial crisis. Students will also engage with contemporary and historical grassroots movements in Asturias, gaining firsthand insight into how local communities have organized to confront social, political, and economic challenges. Through these experiences, you'll develop a deeper understanding of the power of collective action and social change.
People, Power and Protest in Spain
Language Requirement: None
Academic Standing by Program Start: Sophomore or Above
Location: Europe, Spain
GPA: 2.5
People, Power and Protest in Spain
Program Overview
Dates and Deadlines
| Term | Year | Deadline | Arrival Date | Departure Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 2027 | 03/15/2027 | Early August | Late August |
This program has a rolling admission application process: GEO staff (and the program faculty leader, if applicable) will complete a review of the application materials of complete applications in the order that they are submitted (“first come, first serve”). Decisions about acceptance will be made shortly after you submit a complete application. There are some programs that fill fast, some even before the deadline. Students are encouraged to complete applications and commit to programs early. Acceptance is based on a holistic review of your application. This includes a review of your GPA, transcripts (including courses taken and in-progress), any additional requirements or prerequisites (see section "Additional Requirements"), and the short statement.
Academic Details
This program offers two complementary courses each for 4 credits.
Organizing for Change: Social Movements in Modern Spain
History, Politics and Culture in Modern Spain
Course Equivalencies
UO students: please refer to the UO Course Equivalency Process and the UO Office of the Registrar Course Equivalency Database.
Non-UO students: Actual credit awarded is determined by the relevant department at your university in consultation with the study abroad office. Check with your study abroad advisor for more information.
Faculty and Staff
This program is led by Michael Angulo, a faculty member at the University of Oregon’s Labor Education and Research Center (LERC). As a Labor Policy Research Associate at LERC, he works on strategic initiatives for worker organizations across the Pacific Northwest. He has spent over 15 years working as an organizer, researcher, and policy director for labor unions, community groups and local elected officials. He received his B.A. in History and International Peace Studies from the University of Notre Dame, where he spent time abroad researching social movement in El Salvador, Chile and Argentina. He holds a Master’s in Urban Planning from the University of Southern California. He lives with his wife and two children in Portland, Oregon.
Housing Description
Students will be housed in single rooms in a local residence hall.