granada photo
What can you say about an experience that completely challenges and shapes your views on life and the world around you? Spending a semester in Granada with Central College Abroad was amazing, eye-opening and exciting. There's no question in my mind - I came home a changed person.
– John Carraux
University of St. Thomas

orientation/excursions

Each Central program offers an in-depth orientation that will acclimate students to the country's language and culture as they get a feel for their new environment.

Granada orientation
Get to know your surroundings by beginning your semester abroad with a full orientation led by your resident director. Two weeks of orientation and intensive language classes help students adapt to their new culture and prepare for the University of Granada language placement exam. Classes are held for three hours per day at the Center for Modern Languages located in the Palacio de Santa Cruz in Granada. In the afternoon, following the traditional midday meal and siesta, programming may include orientation meetings, guest speakers, or a tour of the city or other nearby locations. Cultural programming is designed to complement course work for an integrated learning experience. Students receive one credit for each week of orientation.

Cultural excursions
One of the highlights of studying through Central College Abroad Granada is the number of cultural activities and excursions that are included as part of your program fee. Many of these excursions, facilitated by the resident director, link directly with your course work in Granada and continue throughout the semester. Most activities and excursions are covered by your program fee. Recent excursions included:

  • Granada’s bull fights, tapas and flamenco dancing
  • The city of Toledo, former capital of the Spanish empire
  • Day trip to a nearby city, either Córdoba or Seville
  • Three-day trip to Madrid, including a visit to the monestary of El Escorial
  • Four-day excursion to Morocco (Morocco Exchange)

The Morocco Exchange
A four-day trip to Morocco is often the culture highlight of the entire semester. After crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, students discover Moroccan culture through this unique immersion experience. The Morocco Exchange program is facilitated by cross-cultural experts, providing students with a safe and meaningful experience. Students can expect to:

  • Experience authentic Moroccan life through homestays
  • Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture through conversations with
    local students and professors
  • Sample traditional spicy Moroccan cuisine

Outside of regular program excursions, many students choose to explore on their own, either over the weekend or during a semester break. In the past, students have hiked the Sierra Nevada Mountains, enjoyed the nearby Mediterranean beaches, and have visited other cities in Spain, such as Barcelona. Longer trips have taken them to Portugal, Italy and other locations throughout Europe.