Psychology in Barcelona

Language Requirement: None

Academic Standing by Program Start: Sophomore or above

Location: Europe, Spain

GPA: 2.5

Program Overview

Come to Barcelona, a metropolis known for its beauty, architecture and music, and explore some of the most important questions of the human experience. This program offers two upper-division psychology courses, which are taught in English and emphasize Spanish culture.

In addition to the academic component of the program, you will hear from guest speakers, partake in excursions and activities that will focus on the rich and unique culture of Barcelona and Catalonia.

Site Visits & Cultural Activities

Two full-day field excursions in the Catalonia region: Visits to Montserrat and Sitges
Two local academic visits related to the partner course content, with sites and entrances determined by the faculty
Two local cultural visits: Examples include Palau de la Música Catalana, La Sagrada Família, and Parc Güell
Two cultural and experiential group activities:
- Spanish cooking class featuring sangria and tapas
- Wine tasting at the ACM-IAU Center

Dates and Deadlines

Term	Year	Deadline	Arrival Date	Departure Date
Summer	2026	03/01/2026	06/17/2026	07/17/2026

This program is less than 90 days. Students with a US passport will be traveling to Spain under the Schengen Visa waiver program and do not require a travel visa for this program, and GEO is unable to assist U.S. citizens in obtaining a visa. If you are not a U.S. Citizen: Notify your GEO Advisor. Students who are not U.S. citizens should contact the Consulate of Spain in their country of residence about visa requirements, no matter the duration of the program of study.

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. Some programs require a letter of recommendation from a faculty that is not the program's faculty leader. If a letter of recommendation is required, you will find more information in your GEO application portal.

Hear from Our Students

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After my trip to Barcelona, I believe every student who has the opportunity should study abroad. The university’s classes are fast-paced but highly engaging, focusing on students enjoying their time… read more

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Academic Details

PSY388: Human Sexuality (Credits: 4 UO credits | 300 level Psychology Elective)

Human Sexuality explores human sexuality from a psychological and cross-cultural perspective. Topics include sexual development, orientation, identity, functioning, and cultural beliefs and myths surrounding sexuality. Students will examine how biology, culture, and personal experiences shape sexual behaviors and attitudes, and engage with current debates and misconceptions. The course includes discussions on reproductive health, relationships, non-traditional partnerships, and sexuality across the lifespan. Guest lectures from mental health professionals complement the academic material.

PSY388: Positive Psychology & Happiness (Credits: 4 UO credits | 300 level Psychology Elective)

Positive Psychology & Happiness introduces students to key concepts in positive psychology, including happiness, wellbeing, emotional resilience, and meaning. Through both academic theory and experiential practices like mindfulness, journaling, and movement-based activities, students will apply these concepts to real-life challenges. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking around debates in the field, including the measurement and sustainability of happiness, and the balance between personal control and external influence.

Both courses will be taught by Barcelona faculty. You will take classes at the IAU center, which houses five classrooms, study areas, an open-air terrace, as well as a meditation and reading room. There are several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can study or relax before or after class. The center is within walking distance of four metro stops and three bus lines for easy access to all of Barcelona.

Note: There are no Spanish classes offered on this program.

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.

Additional Requirements

Note: Although useful, Spanish or Catalan language is not required to participate in the program. Both courses are taught in English, and most of the population in Barcelona speaks at least a little English.

Faculty and Staff

International American University Barcelona local Instructors

Housing Description

You will stay in student residence halls with other students on the program. The rooms are double occupancy with access to a shared kitchen to prepare meals and shared living spaces in the facility.

Budget and Price

2026 Summer

**Program Fees Paid to GEO**
UO Study Abroad Fee*	$500
Program Tuition	$5,072
Insurance	$109
Local Transportation	$50
Housing & Welcoming/Farewell Meals	$1,770

**Other Estimated Expenses**
Estimated Airfare from Eugene	$1,900
Estimated Additional Meals	$800
Estimated Cell Phone Expenses	$50
Estimated Travel Clinic & Pre-departure physical**	$100
Estimated Cost of acquiring passport	$150
Estimated Additional Living Expenses	$400

**Total**
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance	$10,900

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Date	Cancellation Penalty
Upon acceptance to program	Student agrees to $500 non-refundable program deposit
9 weeks before program start date	Student is responsible for 50% of total GEO program fees
5 weeks before program start date	Student is responsible for 75% of total GEO program fees
Program start date or after program begins	Student is responsible for 100% of total GEO program fees

IMPORTANT: The GEO Cancellation Policy is effective from the time a student agrees to pay their non-refundable program deposit or electronically signs the program commitment form, regardless of application or acceptance status. It is essential to read this policy before a potential cancellation takes place, to fully understand the withdrawal and cancellation penalties, and to understand what it means financially to commit to a study abroad program.

Students who cancel their participation must notify GEO in writing. Email is acceptable (geoinfo@uoregon.edu). Verbal notification to GEO or notification given to a non-UO campus study abroad office is not sufficient.

For full details, see the complete GEO Cancellation Policy.

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