Study Abroad in Barcelona, Spain
- Spring 2027
- January 15 – April 11, 2027
- 12–15 Credits
- US $19,160
- Apply by: November 16, 2026
Time Left:
- Summer 2027
- Cohort 1: May 30 – June 26, 2027
- Cohort 2: July 04 – July 31, 2027
- 3 credits (+3 free with optional 2nd course)
- US $5,870
- Apply by: May 10, 2027
Time Left:
- Fall 2027
- September 11 – December 05, 2027
- 12–15 credits
- US $19,160
- Apply by: July 19, 2027
Time Left:
Get a Flight Credit of up to $500 When You Apply
Why Study Abroad in Barcelona?
Spain has actively committed to implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on prioritizing actions towards goals like SDG 3 (health), 6 (clean water), 7 (affordable energy), 11 (sustainable cities), 12 (responsible consumption), 13 (climate action), 14 & 15 (life below water and on land), and a particular emphasis on sustainable energy and water management initiatives.
Barcelona has proven itself a leader in the implementation of the SDGs, ranking first in SDG 11 (making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable) and SDG 17 (strengthening partnerships to achieve the goals). This reflects Barcelona’s commitment to creating a sustainable urban environment and fostering global collaboration to achieve the SDGs.
With its youthful, vibrant, Mediterranean culture and entrepreneurial spirit, Barcelona offers an ideal venue for the intersection of sustainability and career development. Though coursework, co-curriculars, and professional development, students can leverage their time in Barcelona to cultivate skills for a global workforce and a deep understanding of and engagement with critical global issues.
Curriculum
School of Record:
Authentica courses are transcripted by our School of Record, Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU).
Carnegie Rule:
Authentica follows the 2:1 Carnegie Rule for outside-of-class work: students are expected to spend roughly two hours studying and completing assignments out of class for every hour spent in class.
Barcelona Program Concentrations
1 Sustainable Business & Economy
Students analyze how business and economic systems are adapting to sustainability demands in one of Europe’s most innovative cities. Courses on the circular economy and development provide frameworks for responsible growth, supported by fieldwork in renewable energy and entrepreneurial innovation. The program equips students to design scalable, sustainable business models.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsBusiness · Economics · Entrepreneurship · Finance · Sustainability / Environmental Studies
2 Cultural Heritage & Tourism
Barcelona’s dynamic cultural landscape provides a backdrop for studying how tourism, heritage, and sustainability intersect. Students examine eco-tourism, heritage preservation, and the impacts of climate change and urbanization on cultural assets. Coursework and field experiences prepare students to create sustainable strategies for tourism management and cultural preservation.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves (3) or Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
Related MajorsHospitality & Tourism · Cultural Studies · Anthropology · Art History · Heritage Studies · Marketing · Urban Studies
3 Energy & Policy
This program explores the political, economic, and technological dimensions of renewable energy transitions. Students analyze European Union policies, renewable energy systems, and local cooperative models that drive energy innovation. The program develops an understanding of how governance and policy frameworks enable (or constrain) sustainable energy solutions.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy (3) or The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsEngineering · Environmental / Public Policy · Political Science · Economics · Sustainability / Environmental Studies
4 Food Systems & Society
Students investigate how culinary culture and food systems contribute to sustainable development. Courses focus on agricultural traditions, food policy, and ethical consumerism, paired with site visits to local producers and eco-tourism initiatives. The program provides tools to evaluate the cultural and societal dimensions of global food challenges.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsFood Studies · Nutrition · Public Health · Anthropology · Agriculture · Hospitality Management · Sustainability Studies
5 Design, Fashion & Social Impact
Barcelona’s creative industries frame this exploration of ethical fashion, design innovation, and social impact. Students study sustainable fashion trends and circular economy principles while working on project-based innovation initiatives. The program emphasizes how design choices can drive both environmental responsibility and social change.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsFashion / Industrial / Graphic Design · Marketing · Communications · Sociology · Business · Textiles · Sustainability
6 Climate, Policy & Justice
Focused on the intersections of climate action, governance, and equity, this program addresses pressing global sustainability challenges. Students engage with topics like environmental justice, renewable energy policy, and cultural heritage preservation. The program empowers students to critically assess climate policy and propose equitable solutions for resilient communities.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance (3) or Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsPolitical Science · Law · International Relations · Public Policy · Environmental Policy · Sociology · Social Justice · Human Rights
Course Syllabi
Barcelona Courses
Studying sustainability presents an exciting opportunity to blend global environmental challenges with unique socio-cultural, historical, and environmental contexts. Learn in a country rich in natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and regional diversity, which offers numerous possibilities for exploring sustainability from various angles.
LOCATION
TERM
THEME
DISCIPLINE
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Language
Language learning is essential for cultural immersion and building a deeper connection to the local community. Students in non-English speaking location will complete language training to enhance their experience.
Where You'll Stay
Accommodation sample images
You will be living within 45 minutes walking distance or 20 minutes by public transport from your housing to your school.
You will stay in a shared apartment or student residence.
Co-Curriculum
To enhance and enrich the formal curriculum, we offer a robust slate of co-curricular programming focusing on SDGs, professional development, and experiential learning. Field visits in and around the city expose students to SDG-related issues, organizations, and initiatives they would not otherwise have access to. Workshops, seminars, volunteering, and networking events focus on sustainable business practices and professional development skills. This co-curriculum is crafted to enrich students’ understanding of critical global issues while preparing them for the workforce.
Co-Curricular Activities
1) Mirador Torre Glòries – Enjoy the view of Barcelona – Mirador Torre Glòries
Experience a 360º view of the city from the Observation Desk at Torre Glòries, crowned by the installation Cloud Cities by Argentinian artist Tomás Saraceno, and visit the Hiperview Barcelona artistic installation: a representation of the ecosystems, infrastructures and technologies that interact in our 21st century to turn Barcelona into a sustainable city.
2) Barcelona Design Museum – Disseny Hub Barcelona
Visit the permanent collection, displayed through the exhibition Matter Matters, a journey through the history of design and an analysis of contemporary challenges faced by designers to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.
3) Barcelona Museum of Natural Science – Home | Museu de Ciències Naturals de Barcelona
Visit the permanent exhibition Planet Life, which explores the interaction between physical and chemical environments and human beings, while contemplating the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
4) Boquería Market – Boqueria Market Barcelona
Touring the most famous food market in Barcelona since the XIII century, a hub where local fresh products and contemporary high cuisine chefs meet.
5) Park Güell – Choose your experience | Web oficial Park Güell | Barcelona
Visit the stunning park, designed by world famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, and discover Barcelona’s natural and organic shapes reflected in history and architecture.
6) El Born Center of Culture and Memory – Home | El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria
Visit the permanent exhibition Planet Life, which explores the interaction between physical and chemical environments and human beings, while contemplating the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
7) Ciutadella Park – Parc de la Ciutadella – Visit Barcelona
Visit Barcelona’s urban green lung, which houses the city’s biggest glass made greenhouse, and the original buildings and waterfall from the 1888 International Exhibition.
8) Palau de la Música Catalana – Choral and classical music concerts | Palau de la Música Catalana
Visit the city’s concert hall, an amazing example of Catalan Modernisme and a symbol of local culture. The palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
9) Day trip to Delta del Ebro Natural Park
Visit the permanent exhibition Planet Life, which explores the interaction between physical and chemical environments and human beings, while contemplating the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
10) Day trip to Girona
Member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, Girona is known as the city of the four rivers. Dive into its history through Roman, medieval and modernist architecture, visit the Cathedral with the widest Gothic nave in the world and walk along the Onyar river, crossed by ancient and contemporary buildings.
11) Day trip to Sitges
Visit the city’s concert hall, an amazing example of Catalan Modernisme and a symbol of local culture. The palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Program Dates & Price
Spring 2027
Spring Semester
Summer 2027
Summer Cohorts
Cohort 2: July 04 – July 31, 2027
Fall 2027
Fall Semester
Application Requirements
Matriculation in a US-accredited college or university. Good academic and disciplinary standing. 2.5 GPA.
Program Inclusions
airport pickup and transpotation to accomondation
Guided visit to a major Barcelona museum
Guided market visit and cooking class
Spanish language class: 3 mornings, 2 hours each
Welcome and farewell dinners
Walking neighborhood orientation
24/7 Authentica staff assistance
Two weekly co-curricular activities in the city of Barcelona
Public transportation pass for the duration of the program
All course materials
International Insurance coverage
Barcelona Program
Frequently asked questions
Direct answers first — including the one most program pages avoid.
What will a semester in Barcelona actually cost, all-in?
The published program fee is $19,160 for a 12–15 credit semester — and because a fee is not a budget, here is the rest of the math, stated as a dated estimate:
| Included in your program fee | |
| Housing (shared apartment or student residence) | Included |
| Transit pass · international insurance · course materials | Included |
| Airport pickup · co-curriculars · Spanish class · orientation | Included |
| Program fee | $19,160 |
| Plan for separately | |
| Round-trip flights (major US gateways) | $700 – $1,200 |
| Meals & groceries (full semester) | $1,800 – $2,400 |
| Student visa & residence permit fees | ≈ $200 |
| Personal spending & weekend travel | $900 – $1,400 |
| Realistic all-in total | ≈ $22,700 – $24,400 |
Estimates are estimates: dated July 2026, refreshed each term, and your own spending will vary. Apply the JetSet credit of up to $500 and any SCALE award against this total.
What is included in the Barcelona program fee?
Airport pickup and transportation to your accommodation, a guided visit to a major Barcelona museum, a guided market visit and cooking class, a Spanish language class (three mornings, two hours each), welcome and farewell dinners, a walking neighborhood orientation, 24/7 Authentica staff assistance, two weekly co-curricular activities in the city, a public transportation pass for the duration of the program, all course materials, and international insurance coverage.
When are the Barcelona application deadlines?
Spring 2027 closes November 16, 2026 · Summer 2027 closes May 10, 2027 · Fall 2027 closes July 19, 2027. The deadline is the number to plan around.
Does financial aid apply to the Barcelona program?
In most cases institutional and federal aid can travel with you for credit-bearing programs — confirm the specifics with your financial aid office early, not at deposit time. On top of that, Authentica adds SCALE scholarships for need- and merit-based support and a JetSet flight credit of up to $500 when you apply.
How do credits work in Barcelona?
Semesters carry 12–15 credits; the summer term carries 3 credits, with an optional second course adding 3 more free. Courses follow the 2:1 Carnegie Rule for out-of-class work and are transcripted by our School of Record, Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU).
Where will I live in Barcelona?
You will stay in a shared apartment or student residence, within 45 minutes' walking distance or 20 minutes by public transport from your school.
What support is on the ground in Barcelona?
24/7 Authentica staff assistance throughout the program, international insurance included in your fee, and a walking neighborhood orientation from day one.
Looking for ways to fund your experience?
Authentica standard programs are based in popular study abroad destinations for US undergraduates, but we aim to approach and engage our locations in distinctive, highly intentional ways.
Ready to apply?
Fill out the Apply Now form.
Have any questions?
Let us know through the Inquire Now form.
Need help? Contact us at info@authentica.com
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