WFU launches new program in Barcelona
This fall, 54 students are participating in a new Wake Forest semester-long study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain, through a partnership with the Autonomous University of Barcelona’s (UAB) City Center Campuses.
The program, developed for students studying business, economics, entrepreneurship, and global trade and commerce, will take place in both the fall and spring semesters.
Barcelona is a leading economic and cultural center, and its influence in commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science and the arts contribute to its status as one of the world’s major cities.
“The Barcelona program was designed in collaboration with the business school to meet the needs of students across their majors where curriculum requirements can sometimes make it difficult to study abroad,” says Kline Harrison, associate provost for global affairs and Kemper Professor of Business. “However, students from many different majors and minors, including politics, biology, entrepreneurship, economics, and religion are also in Barcelona this semester.”
The program is housed in the heart of Barcelona among the city’s 1.6 million inhabitants. Students can choose from among several living options — including homestays with local families, or living in apartments or residence halls for local and international students.
In conjunction with the launch of the academic program in Barcelona, the University is opening a Wake Forest Center in the city.
“The Center offers a gathering spot for the students who are living in various parts of the city and a space to host alumni and parent visitors. There are also offices and meeting space for faculty,” said David Taylor, Wake Forest’s director of global abroad programs. “It’s important to have a permanent Wake Forest presence in this vibrant world city.”
Also beginning this fall, a research-based program in Santiago, Chile, is being offered for students wanting to earn honors in the Latin American and Latino Studies program. Seven students are participating in the new program.
Wake Forest students have access to study in 207 foreign cities in 69 countries. The University directly sponsors programs in 43 cities in 32 countries. Wake Forest has joined the Institute of International Education (IIE)’s Generation Study Abroad initiative to double the number of American students who study abroad by the end of the decade, while increasing diversity and ensuring quality.
