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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?

Spain and Mexico are still surging alongside a diverse trio.

#1 (tie): 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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#1 (tie): UCEAP – Japan: Engineering & Science

Bright red maple tree hangs over the bridge in a Japanese garden in Sendai, Japan

Conduct research at Tohoku University, known for developing innovations and hands-on learning. Guided by a faculty supervisor, work in a lab with international and Japanese students on the new Aobayama campus. Stay in Sendai for a full year and experience cherry blossoms in spring and snow in winter.

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#3: UCEAP – Spain: Carlos III Univ. of Madrid

Puerta de Alcalá, a post-Roman triumphal arch with cars passing by and buildings in the background in Madrid, Spain

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.

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#4: UCEAP – United Kingdom: English Universities

A red telephone booth with a double decker bus and Big Ben in the background in London England

This program is a full immersion experience, which means you’ll be treated like any other British student. Craft your full-time course schedule based on your academic needs just like back home. Attend class with local Brits and international students from all over the world who choose to study abroad in England.

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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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#5 (tie): UCEAP – Australia: Marine Biology & Terrestrial Ecology

Shot of the University of Queensland campus at sunset

A model of diversity, Australia is home to more species of plants, mammals, birds, and amphibians than any other country. If you’re passionate about oceanography, ecology, and conservation, this fieldwork program is a perfect fit. Check out a dry rainforest and an outback cattle station, all on one island. Boat to island research stations, including one on the Great Barrier Reef. Spend your days snorkeling, researching coral bleaching, and watching newly hatched baby turtles race to the sea in the moonlight. On breaks, head inland to slide down the sand dunes. Cuddle a koala, hang out with wallabies and kangaroos, or hit the Gold Coast for surfing.

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Why These?

Maybe it's upcoming deadlines for Spain, renewed interest in Mexico, or a demand for STEM-focused programs for Japan and Australia.

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