The Center for Cross-Cultural Study (CC-CS) offers semester programs in Córdoba, Argentina at the Universidad Blas Pascal.  CC-CS facilitates a true cross-cultural exchange by inviting students to expand their world-view through intense immersion of the culture. With a strong dedication to academic integrity and an emphasis on the personal growth of the student, CC-CS has developed a reputation for the superior quality and value of its programs.  Some features of the program include:

• U.S. compatible curriculum
• Mentoring by local Argentine students 
• Native Argentine professors
• All classes taught in Spanish
• Average class size of 10-12 students
• On-site Resident Director and staff 
• Internships and independent research projects
• All-inclusive day and overnight study trips
• Weekends for independent travel
• On-site cultural activities
• Tango, horseback riding, and other extracurricular activities at no additional cost 

The program begins with a one-month intensive language and culture class.  Students earn 4 semester credits for this class while preparing for courses at the advanced-intermediate and advanced levels.  During the regular semester, students enroll in at least one regular UBP course with Argentine classmates.  Students may also enroll in one or more courses organized by CC-CS and UBP in advanced Spanish, Argentine literature, and modern Argentine history and culture.  Students generally earn 16 - 20 credits per semester (including the intensive language and culture course).

UBP courses   

CC-CS/UBP courses 

During the one-month intensive language and culture course, students live with a local family which helps them gain an understanding of daily life and customs.  For the remainder of the program, students have the option of living in a residence hall or continuing to live in a home.  The homestay includes full room and board and laundry once a week.  There is one student per home.  Student residences include double occupancy rooms with a kitchenette, two meals per day Monday - Friday, in room high speed Internet connection, laundry facilities, television room, study room, pool access, and use of the sport facilities. 

Contact Renee Knutson, Director of Study Abroad, to discuss program fees and financial aid.

CC-CS has a scholarship program that is open to all participants.  Awards recipients are chosen based on the submission of an original essay in Spanish, an essay in English, and a faculty recommendation.  Students may receive awards up to $2,500.  For Scholarship Program Instructions, click here.

To be eligible, you must have completed 3 semesters of college Spanish or the equivalent and have a 3.0 GPA in Spanish course work.

Apply to Center for Cross-Cultural Study.  Print copy of application and submit to Study Abroad Office.

Submit Saint Mary's required paperwork to the Study Abroad Office. 

Acceptance is contingent on a thorough review of the student's application and subsequent approval from CC-CS.

After acceptance, complete the following required items.

1.  Pay $300 non-refundable program deposit payable to SMU. 

2.  Attend all orientation sessions.

3.  Obtain a passport.  Submit a copy of the first page to the Study Abroad Office.

4.  Arrange travel plans.  Submit a copy of your flight itinerary to the Study Abroad Office.

5.  Purchase the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for $22 in the Study Abroad Office.

Location

Argentina has an area of 1.1 million sq. mi., which is about the size of the U.S. east of the Mississippi River.  It is the second largest country in South America.  Córdoba is the second largest city in Argentina with a population of 1,300,000 (10% of the population are college students).  It is in the foothills of the Sierra Chica mountain range in Northern Argentina and is surrounded by lakes and rivers, making it a perfect location for water sports, hiking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.  Córdoba is also recognized as a center for arts and learning with many universities, museums, and theatres.

Climate

Córdoba, Argentina is known for its good weather and healthy climate.  The average annual temperature is 50 °F - 64°F (10 °C - 18 °C).  Rainfall is seasonal in summer with an average of 31“ a year.  There is a dry season lasting from May through November.

Time

When Central Standard Time is in effect in the United States, Argentina is two hours ahead.

Currency

The currency in Argentina is the Peso.  There are 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents,  50 cents and 1 peso coins. Paper money comes in denominations of: $2, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.  For the current exchange rate, click here.

More Information

Buenos Aires Herald 
Embassy of Argentina 
Embassy of the United States Argentina 
Enjoy Argentina 
US Department of State Consular Information Sheet Argentina 
Welcome Argentina