API (Academic Programs International): Valparaíso, Chile - Pontifícia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso

Built upon dozens of steep hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Valparaíso boasts a labyrinth of streets and cobblestone alleyways, embodying a rich architectural and cultural legacy. Nicknamed “The Jewel of the Pacific”, Valparaíso was declared a UNESCO world heritage site based upon its improvised urban design and unique architecture. Founded in 1536, Valparaíso is not only one of Chile’s most important port cities, it is also its third largest city. Valparaíso remains a source of inspiration for artists of all types, including the well-known Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. Students can visit Neruda’s seaside home in Valparaíso, as well as the Chilean Congress. Offering strikingly beautiful views from the top of its numerous hills, it is reminiscent of San Francisco. Valparaíso, or Valpo for short, is a city where students can amble away an afternoon exploring its steep and winding streets, peppered with colored houses and electric lines, and admire the sparkling Pacific Ocean below. It is also only a two-hour bus ride away from Chile’s capital city, Santiago.

Programs in Valparaíso Includes:

• 
  Spanish Language and Latin American Studies: API students studying at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV ) have the option of taking a Spanish language course at the beginning, intermediate or advanced level with other visiting international students, as well as elective coursework in English or Spanish. No minimum study of Spanish is required for Spanish language courses and English electives. Four semesters of college-level Spanish or the equivalent is required for coursework in Spanish for study abroad students. Students who place into the advanced level of Spanish on the PUCV placement test are welcome to take coursework with local Chilean students in lieu of some elective courses. Advanced Spanish proficiency is also a requirement of students wishing to earn the Latin American Studies Certificate. Courses with Chilean students will end later than courses with international students, and will require an extra fee for extended housing.

• 
  Summer Chilean Culture and Spanish Language: Students who choose to study abroad in Valparaíso in API’s Chilean Culture and Spanish Language Program have the opportunity to complete 6 semester credits of language and culture coursework. Beginning and intermediate-level Spanish speakers will complete a Spanish grammar course along with a conversation and culture course. Advanced Spanish speakers may choose to complete a grammar course along with an elective course or simply select two elective courses. All courses are available only to visiting international students and are taught in Spanish. All courses are equivalent to three semester credits.

• 
  Summer Business Internship for Advanced Spanish Speakers: Students who choose to study abroad in Valparaíso in API’s Business Summer Internship Program will complete a credit-bearing internship with a complementary classroom component in business.  Students who wish to complete an additional academic course (including advanced language courses as well as an English or Spanish-taught elective) may do so if time permits for an additional fee.