Pre-Requisites
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Foreign Language: 5 semesters of Spanish
- Approval from SMCM Spanish faculty
- Judicial Check
- Academic Conduct Check
Currently Accepting Applications for:
- Fall 2023 Program Dates: Not Running
Highlights
- Private program group housing in a residencia
- Local excursions around Cuba
- Roundtrip Airfare Miami-Cuba Included
Financing Studying Abroad
Office of International Education Scholarships (Need-Based, Merit-Based, Region Specific, Language Study)
API Scholarships (Region Specific, DEI, First-Generation, STEM, Gilman Recipients, Intern)
Speak with the Office of Student Financial Assistance for Options
About the Program
Want to study Spanish and Cuban culture? This is the unique program for you!
Students on the API Cuba program are required to take a Spanish language course (with other international students). This course uses the Cuban experience as a backdrop for language practice, discussion, and writing assignments.
Students can choose their remaining courses from a selection of offerings in the Spanish Department for Non-Spanish Speakers with other international students or from integrated courses with Cuban students. Integrated classes may be taken in the Departments of Philosophy, History, Sociology, Literature, and Art History. Students may also choose to take a Cuban film seminar with international students through the Foundation for New Latin American Cinema.
Academics
Students will earn 15-16 credits per semester. Students can choose their remaining courses from a selection of offerings in the Universidad de Habana’s Spanish Department for Non-Spanish Speakers with other international students or from integrated courses with Cuban students. Integrated classes may be taken in the Departments of Philosophy, History, Sociology, Literature, and Art History. Students may also choose to take a Cuban film seminar with international students through the Foundation for New Latin American Cinema.
Courses are offered Monday through Friday, in both the mornings and afternoons. Coursework will be supplemented by numerous cultural activities and excursions. See the API program web page for specifics on course offerings.
Housing and Meals
Students in Havana will live with other API students and, in some cases, other international students in a local residencia. An API Residencia in Havana is a renovated home run by a host family, near the University of Havana campus. Residencias have common spaces where students can work and where API holds group activities. Breakfast and dinner are also provided as part of the program fee!
Location
Havana, the capital city of Cuba, is one of the most vibrant and best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America. To visit Cuba is a thrilling and unique experience, much coveted by American tourists ever since the tense political relations between the US and Cuba, and related restricted post-Cold-War tourism. Study in Havana to dive into the rich history and the thriving Caribbean culture of Cuba!
Important Links
Faculty Liaison
Dr. Joanna Bartow – jrbartow@smcm.edu
Transfer Credit Policy
How credits taken abroad will transfer back to SMCM.
Academic and Judicial Policies
The academic and judicial requirements for any student considering studying abroad.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
How financial aid will apply towards your study abroad program and what scholarships are available.
Payments and Services
Payment processes for semester-long, short-term, and non-SMCM study abroad programs.
