GEO Faculty-Led Programs in Bilbao, Spain
About the site
- Business
- Program length abroad:
- 1 – 2 weeks
- Terms:
- Spring Break (except Easter)
- Summer (May – July)
- Fall Break (October/November)
Site availability may depend on program dates and site capacity for the requested timeframe.
- Minimum students: 10
- Maximum students: 18
Bilbao, located in northern Spain near the French border, is the largest city in the Basque Country and is known for its walkable streets and efficient public transportation. The city combines historic charm with modern development, especially its vibrant Old Quarter filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants. Bilbao is a leading center for business, research, trade, and innovation, making it an important economic hub in the region. Widely recognized for its successful urban revitalization, the city is often cited as the model for the "Bilbao Effect." The iconic Guggenheim Museum helped transform Bilbao into an international cultural and tourism destination.
USAC’s site relationship is with the University of the Basque Country (UPV), ranked highly in academics and research among the top 300 universities in the world. USAC facilities are located at the University's Business School in downtown Bilbao.
Program options and components
The following are sample logistics and services that can be incorporated into a Faculty-Led Program in Bilbao, Spain.
Academic and co-curricular opportunities
- Classroom space is provided through USAC's host institution, University of the Basque Country (UPV).
- Guest lectures or presenters.
- Co-curricular activities or visits related to academic area.
The Faculty-Led Program course is identified and taught by the institution’s faculty. The academic content, syllabus, and credit is determined by the institution. No USAC credit is given, and the cost of instruction is not included in the program.
Cultural immersion and site experiences
Local site activities
- Examples include:
- City tour
- Intro to Basque language and culture
- Local cuisine class
- Museum visit
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Surfing
Day trips
- Examples include:
- Burgos
- French Basque Country
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
- San Sebastián
- Urdaibai
Site logistics
- Student housing:
- Shared room in residence hall
- Shared hotel room
- Program Leader housing:
- Single-occupancy room in residence hall
- Single-occupancy hotel room
- Welcome and farewell meals
- Breakfast typically included with hotel only
- Additional group meals may be added upon request
- Public transit card
- Private transportation for activities when local transit or walking is not feasible
- Group airport transfers available for arrival and departure
Service and activity availability vary and cannot be guaranteed. Final inclusions and costs are outlined in the official program proposal based on program length and selected components. All GEO Faculty-Led Programs include USAC site staff support, access to USAC's Health and Safety Team, and CISI insurance.