SAI students attending the Universitat de Vic’s semester program take courses in the Business, Design and Innovation program. Semester students enroll in four or five courses per semester, earning 12 or 15 US credits. Students are free to choose from an array of electives, allowing for maximum academic flexibility. Courses help students develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to achieve their professional goals, and offer the opportunity to learn directly from some of Barcelona’s leading professionals.
Application open until: May 1, 2024
Application Requirements
Complete online application
Personal statement (300-500 words)
Official transcript
Passport scan (photo page)
Digital photo (passport style)
EU privacy consent form
Highlights
- Courses taught in English
- Local professionals are invited to facilitate discussions/classes
- Course highlight: Marketing and Fashion
Program Dates
September 4, 2024 – December 21, 2024
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
Academic Year: Sophomore or above (at least 2 completed semesters at application).
* contact SAI if you don’t meet requirements
Cumulative GPA:* 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale)
English Language:* Non-native English language speakers must submit TOEFL: 65+ or equivalent.
Course objectives:
• To identify the roles of managers and leaders and their impact on businesses and society.
• To learn about topics such as management, leadership, effectiveness, organization, communication and business ethics.
• To develop management and leadership skills through a personal project.
• To develop teamwork skills and apply them in a group project.
• To develop analytical and creative skills in order to apply them in the projects.
- To understand the basic psychological processes involved in human communication, as well as the different psychological theories and paradigms of interpersonal, group and mass communication.
- To be able to analyze and understand the underlying processes in persuasive communication (propaganda, publicity and advertising) and its effects.
- To analyze the influence of the culture of the mass media in society and in the development of personal and group identity.
- To acquire applied knowledge related to oral, textual, visual and audiovisual languages in mass communication.
- To be able to develop a complete communication plan.
- To defend the communication plan by means of a presentation including oral, textual and audiovisual communication.
The people, the language, the culture, the way of life, and various other
aspects could become obstacles for company strategy abroad. In order to use your marketing mix effectively in an international context, you need to adapt it completely to each local market.
Global Marketing deals with how to work with consumers, channels, competitors and markets, bearing in mind the win-win principle. It is not just
a matter of prices and products. It is much more than this and a good marketing manager has to know how things work.
Summing up, Global Marketing is the process of doing business at a global level, promoting greater sales and customer satisfaction by gaining a better understanding of foreign consumers of goods and services produced by your company.
The city meets all the necessary conditions to allow designers and creators of all sectors to compare ideas, trends and projects, with the fashion industry as a meeting point for them all. Big fashion labels (such as Zara, Bershka, Mango, Desigual, Custo, Springfield) and young fashion designers are already pushing this advantage. And the “Barcelona label” is positioned as a symbol for creativity.
The designers of the future will need to understand and create for the contemporary fashion system and its industry using marketing tools appropriately.
In order to develop a marketing and communication plan for the fashion industry, students will combine technical and theoretical knowledge of marketing with creative development and cultural knowledge.
Global Leadership Certificate
Students can supplement a regular semester of studies with the SAI Global Leadership Certificate (GLC), designed to enrich students’ experiences and to acknowledge their academic and service work by providing an additional credential beyond a university transcript. Students enrolled in the Global Leadership Certificate program broaden their awareness of global issues and deepen their knowledge of the host community’s role in an increasingly interconnected world through exploration of research, engagement in community service and interaction with experts and leaders. Students interested in applying for the GLC should select the program at application. Your Admissions Counselor will help guide you through the process of selecting GLC-approved courses at the time of registration. GLC applicants should have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
International Service Certificate
The SAI International Service Certificate is awarded to SAI semester students who are motivated to engage with and give back to their host community. Supported by SAI on-site staff, students who earn the certificate gain valuable skills collaborating with local community groups, and obtain a unique perspective of their host city. Volunteers are able to explore a field of their interest, and build skills that can transfer into their future careers. For more information see SAI International Service Certificate.
Courses & Schedule
Students are free to enroll in any combination of elective courses, but prerequisites must be demonstrated through students’ transcripts.
Spanish Language
A Spanish language course (3 US credits) may be available. The course must meet a minimum enrollment, so it cannot be guaranteed, although it is more likely to be offered during the Fall term.
Course Registration
Students choose their courses after they have been accepted into the program. As soon as the UVic semester schedule is confirmed, students are asked to complete a Course Approval form, which is used to specify first-choice and alternate-choice courses. SAI’s Barcelona Admissions Counselor will help guide students through this process. All posted schedules of classes are tentative and subject to change unless otherwise noted.
| Pre-Departure Calendar | |
|---|---|
| May 1 2024 |
Application Closes Applications accepted after deadline as space permits. |
| Within 1 week of acceptance |
SAI Deposits Due $500 Enrollment Deposit (applied toward program fee) $300 Security Deposit (refundable) |
| May 1 2024 |
50% of Total Program Fee Due Students who are accepted and submit SAI deposits after this date will have an amended pay schedule. Either 50% or 100% of Program Fee will be due within 5 business days, based on the deposit payment date. |
| May 15 2024 |
Enrollment Closes Students must complete their enrollment, including paying deposits, by this date. |
| June 1 2024 |
SAI Scholarship Application Deadline Students wishing to apply for a SAI scholarship must have all application items submitted by 11:59pm Pacific Time on this date. |
| June 15 2024 |
SAI Financial Aid Verification Deadline Students wishing to defer payment until financial aid disbursement must submit the financial aid verification forms to SAI by this date. |
| July 1 2024 |
Balance of Total Program Fee Due |
| On-Site Calendar | |
|---|---|
| September 4 2024 |
Arrival & Housing Check-in Students arrive at El Prat Barcelona (BCN) airport. SAI airport pickup is provided between 10:00am and 3:00pm, and students are transferred to SAI housing. |
| September 5 2024 |
SAI Orientation Mandatory SAI orientation is held at the SAI Barcelona office and introduces students to their city while covering safety, policies, housing, and culture. |
| Coming soon |
Academic Orientation UVic orientation provides details on academic policies, and allows students to meet one another and their professors. |
| September 9 2024 |
Classes Begin |
| December 20 2024 |
Final Exams End |
| December 21 2024 |
Program End & Housing Check-out Students must move out of SAI housing by 10:00am to return home or pursue independent travel. |
| SAI Program Fees* | USD |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $120 |
| Security Deposit Refundable at the end of the term. |
$300 |
| Program Fee: 12 credits Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
$12,500 |
| Program Fee: 15 credits Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
$13,000 |
| Optional / Additional Fees: | |
| Optional Private Room Housing Supplement Private room in a shared apartment, with a shared bathroom. |
$2,600 |
| Optional Homestay Housing Supplement Family homestay in a private occupancy bedroom, breakfast & dinner included. |
$575 |
| Optional Visa Processing Fee Available for some jurisdictions. |
$275 |
| International Mailing Supplement When applicable, students are charged an international mailing supplement to ensure visa paperwork arrives in a timely manner. |
$90 |
*prices are subject to change
Note: certain SAI-affiliated US universities require specific payment arrangements. These may require that some fees are paid by the student directly to SAI, and other fees are paid to SAI by the affiliated university on behalf of the student. If you attend a SAI-affiliated university please contact your study abroad office or speak with your SAI Admissions Counselor for details
| Budget | Low Est. | High Est. |
|---|---|---|
| Airfare to/from Barcelona |
$950 | $1,500 |
| Visa Cost depends on travel to Consulate. |
$160 | $360 |
| Books, Supplies & Course Fees | $50 / course | $200 / course |
| Meals Includes groceries and eating out. |
$700 / month | $1,000 / month |
| Personal Expenses | $300 / month | $350 / month |
| Transportation within Barcelona Public transportation with some taxi rides. |
$100 / month | $150 / month |
| Weekend Travel Cost varies greatly by student. |
$300 / month | $1,000 / month |
This is a SAI 360° Services Program; it includes our full services!
- Program tuition and U.S. academic credit
- Accommodation in carefully selected student housing
- Airport pickup on arrival day
- Welcome reception and events
- Orientation to the host city and school
- On-site staff who foster a welcoming community and provide assistance when needed
- SAI Viva Experience: cultural engagement, excursions & wellness activities
- Student health insurance providing full coverage and medical emergency evacuation
- 24-hour on-site emergency support
- Farewell event
Pre-departure and Re-entry services
- Knowledgeable Admissions Counselor dedicated to you, providing friendly assistance
- Helpful pre-departure tools and resources
- Parent & family resources
- Online student groups to acquaint you with other SAI students
- Student visa advising
- Assistance with financial aid processing
- Need-based SAI scholarships
- Alumni Ambassador Program, with paid internship opportunities
- SAI alumni network
SAI offers all students the Viva Experience: frequent cultural activities, at no extra cost, for participants to get to know their community, city and country. Following is a sample of the activities included in this program. Please note that actual activities may differ.
Welcome Dinner
Students receive a dinner delivered to their new apartment to kick off their semester.
Cultural Workshop: Navigating the Spanish Culture
Through this workshop, students learn habits (European differences), traditions, food and language tips.
Walking Panoramic Tour and Chocolate Con Churros
Students start off their stay in Barcelona with this popular tour. The first part of the tour introduces students to Gaudi’s symbolic Modernist architecture by discovering the Sagrada Familia and the Casa Battló, among other famous buildings. Later, students explore the Gothic quarter, its cathedral, squares and narrow maze-like streets. No visit to Barcelona is complete without a stroll through the Gothic quarter! At the end of the tour, students enjoy local delicious churros with chocolate.
Survival Spanish Lesson
Get a head start on overcoming the language barrier! SAI offers a survival Spanish class that covers basic conversation and useful phrases. Students learn to ask for directions, shop with local fruit vendors, or order a café con leche at the local cafe. These lessons provide a practical and hands-on approach to learning Spanish.
Visit the Bunkers of Carmel
A visit to one of the most astonishing viewpoints in Barcelona. These anti-aircraft batteries from the Spanish Civil War have become a popular spot amongst locals and visitors.
Sitges Beach Day
Students visit the town of Sitges, which is a paradise of sun, sea and mild temperatures year-round, and a venue for international film and music festivals. Beautiful views and long beaches make Sitges a wonderful day trip.
Montserrat Day Trip
Students take a day trip to Montserrat, a spectacularly beautiful Benedictine mountain retreat. Its unusual rock formations and its natural beauty have made it a Catalonian icon. Students take the cable train up the mountain to visit the monastery and wander the mountain paths, with amazing views of the Catalonian countryside.
Catamaran Cruise
A cruise onboard a Catamaran is the best way to see the skyline and beaches of Barcelona, as well as enjoy the sun and relax.
Born Neighborhood & Gothic Street Art Tour
Students learn about the emergence of the Barcelona street art scene while exploring some of Barcelona’s most beautiful neighborhoods.
Re-orientation
The SAI Re-Orientation is a way for students to come together and reflect on their experience so far, and make plans for a successful second half of the term. Food included!
Gracia Neighborhood Tour
Gracia is one of the most characteristic and beautiful neighborhoods of Barcelona. For a long time, it was its own town just outside Barcelona, and even today it still maintains its independence and free spirit. Students discover the many secrets of Gracia, its history, its hidden corners, and some favorite tales about the neighborhood.
Say Cheese!
Spain is a country of great culinary diversity, especially when it comes to its profusion of native cheeses! During this activity, students are able to taste and learn about various types of Spanish cheeses.
Parc de Collserola Hike
Behind Tibidabo’s iconic outline, there is a wealth of woodland and fields: a protected park where a wide variety of Mediterranean flora and fauna can be found, just 15 minutes from the bustling city. During this easy two hour hike at Collserola, students discover the secrets of this beautiful natural space.
Volunteering with a Local Elementary School
Students volunteer at a local Barcelona elementary school by participating in English activities for children ages 5 – 12.
Farewell Dinner
Students celebrate the end of a successful time abroad and say their goodbyes over a delicious Spanish meal.
Standard Housing: Student apartment
SAI student apartments are convenient and well equipped, with shared occupancy bedrooms (option to upgrade to private bedroom, if available). Typical residences house 2 – 8 students and contain a combination of private and shared bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom and living areas. Furnishings, a washing machine, basic kitchen supplies, bed linens and towels are provided. All apartments are equipped with wireless Internet. Housing configurations are designated as female, male, and in some locations, gender-inclusive. SAI on-site staff is available to respond to any maintenance needs that may arise.
Optional Housing: Family homestay (additional fee applies)
SAI homestay families are thoroughly screened and are accustomed to welcoming visiting students into their homes. Homestays provide a private occupancy bedroom in the family home with basic furnishings. Daily breakfast and dinner are included, as is weekly laundry. Mostly Spanish is spoken in the home, granting students an excellent opportunity to practice their language skills. Please note that some homestays may be outside of the city center.
Passports
Passports should be valid for 4 months after planned departure from Spain.
Student Visas
In accordance with Spanish law students studying in Spain for 91 days or more are required to obtain a student visa. Those with Spanish/EU citizenship are exempted. Non-US nationals should consult their local Consulate for details on student visa requirements.
Students must appear in person at the Spanish Consulate to present their visa application. SAI is able to process visa applications (no trip to the Consulate required!) for students who live or attend school in some jurisdictions. Students who wish to use this optional service should contact SAI directly to confirm that they are eligible.
For those who are required to apply directly to the consulate, SAI provides student visa consulting at no cost.