Which are the top five study abroad programs over the last month? Perennially popular programs? Or some surprises?
Number one remains the same while Univ. of Barcelona, Psychology & Cognitive Science, and National Autonomous Univ. of Mexico (UNAM) return in slightly different positions.
#1: UCEAP – Italy: Sociology in Rome
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.
#2: UCEAP – Korea: Yonsei Univ.
Seoul is a fashion and technology trendsetter with traditional roots showcased in its temples, shrines, and palaces. At Yonsei University, immerse yourself in the Korean lifestyle. Take a class on Korean history, study Korean pop culture, experience the comedy of Nanta, a wordless cooking performance, and learn about K-drama. You can pursue classes in any major and, if you have a soft spot for East Asian culture, you’ll find this program especially rewarding.
#3 (tie): UCEAP – Spain: Univ. of Barcelona
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.
#3 (tie): UCEAP – Italy: Psychology & Cognitive Science, Padua
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.
#5 (tie): UCEAP – Spain: Carlos III Univ. of Madrid
With access to a wide variety of courses in English and Spanish, you can explore your academic interests while mingling with local students. It has every style of architecture from medieval to wildly modern. Intrinsically creative, the city's ongoing foodie revolution puts a delicious twist on traditional Spanish tapas.
#5 (tie): UCEAP – Mexico: National Autonomous Univ. of Mexico (UNAM)
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.
Why These?
It's likely that Rome's late application for fall and the size of psychology major motivate Italy's interest. Korea is usually the number 3 study abroad destination for UC Merced students, and Spain is another favorite. Mexico is getting more attention perhaps due to its strategic importance to UC and the US.
