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Trending Study Abroad Programs

UC Merced Study Abroad Stories of Interest

Which are the top five study abroad programs over the last month? Perennially popular programs? Or some surprises?

#1: UCEAP – Italy: Sociology in Rome

Golden walls, color-filled flower pots, and cobblestones line a street in the Trastevere neighborhood

Study past and present Roman and Italian society and politics through an interdisciplinary lens as you soak up the best things about Italy—art, food, and the people! Bring your walking shoes for faculty-guided tours of Roman treasures, including its world-famous Capitoline Museums and Galleria Borghese. Foodies can try creamy gelato and savory street food like trapizzino.

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#2: UCEAP – Netherlands: Psychology & Neuroscience, Maastricht Univ.

St. Servatius Bridge and buildings near the river Meuse in Maastricht, Netherlands

Known for groundbreaking studies in psychology, Maastricht University is an extraordinary place to focus on psychology and neuroscience. Courses are taught in English and in a group, you will analyze real-world problems, set learning goals, and conduct research. Maastricht is a university town steeped in history with medieval ramparts and delicate brick towers as the backdrop.

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#3: UCEAP – Spain: Univ. of Barcelona

Univ. of Barcelona header

As an educational destination, Barcelona is a marvel, filled with diversity in its culture, architecture, art, economy, and gastronomy. The capital of Catalonia, a region with its own flavor, identity, language, and culture, is home to Catalans, who speak both Catalans and Castilian Spanish.

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#4: UCEAP – Italy: Psychology & Cognitive Science, Padua

Elliptical square of Prato della Valle with a large space with a green island at the center and surrounded by a small canal bordered by two rings of statues in Padova

Put psychology theory into practice at the University of Padua and explore the depth and range of your major. A vibrant college town just east of Venice, Padua features student-filled piazzas and an abundance of cultural, musical, and sporting events. To experience living as an Italian, you will be assigned a local student buddy who will introduce the city and student life, and support you during your stay.

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#5 (tie): UCEAP – Hong Kong: Univ. of Hong Kong (HKU)

Aerial shot of Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong skyline at sunset

Hong Kong’s blend of cultures, modern luxuries, and English-speaking standard make it an ideal entry point into Asian culture. Find classes from the arts and humanities to business, science, or engineering. Art lovers will enjoy the ornate sculptures and paintings at the university museum. As one of Asia’s top international hubs, Hong Kong has any type of food you can imagine. After class, hike Victoria Peak or plan a weekend camping trip with friends.

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#5 (tie): UCEAP – Mexico: National Autonomous Univ. of Mexico (UNAM)

Aerial view of Mexico City skyline and lush green trees around Chapultepec Castle from Chapultepec Park

Bold, exciting, and beautiful, Mexico City is situated on a high mountain plateau. Attending classes with local UNAM students, make progress in your major in just about any field. Popular subjects include anthropology, indigenous culture studies, psychology, economics, and US-Mexico relations. For more practical experience, add an internship related to art, marketing, or aiding refugees, women, and children. Program outings include historic sites, cultural events, and museums. Climb the pyramids of Teotihuacán, wonder at Frida Kahlo’s surreal paintings, or savor a fresh Mexican lunch on a boat ride through the canals of Xochimilco.

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Why These?

It's never easy to say for sure, but Italy has late application deadlines, psychology is the second largest major on campus, and Barcelona is a perennial favorite.

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