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Comparative studies: Uruguay and Cuba

Study abroad for eight weeks, beginning in Montevideo, Uruguay and continuing to La Habana, Cuba, for a comparative Latin American studies program. Experience Uruguay's vibrant, progressive and thriving culture and contrast it with Cuba's political and historical complexities, evolution and stunning natural beauty.

  • Take immersive studies focused on Spanish language, coastal ecosystems, Latin American history, and business during the five-week Montevideo program.
  • Participate in intriguing courses on politics, culture, health and community during the three-week La Habana program.
  • Learn the dances of both cultures, savor the flavors of the different regions and enhance your Spanish language skills through various course offerings.
  • Rely on our seasoned Uruguay and Cuba Resident Director, Sebastian Bombi, who will be your daily guide and local resource in both Montevideo and La Habana. Sebastian will also accompany students on the group flight between locations.

Some additional key features the programs offer include:

  • Explore the Spanish, Italian, and African influences of the Rio de la Plata region of Uruguay, visit the Palacio Legislativo, and travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina on the Optional Tour.
  • Surround yourself with stunning natural beauty, Caribbean flair and old-world Cuban architecture.

2027 Program Cost

The $8,380* discounted cost includes homestays in both locations and reflects a $2,368 combination program discount.

*Program fees, prior to the applied discount, normally are $4,980 for the Montevideo session and $4,980 (plus $788 for housing) for the La Habana session. Students must attend both sessions to qualify for the discounted rate.

Montevideo Summer session overview

Students in downtown Montevideo, Uruguay.Students will have the option of taking one or two courses (3-7 credits) in international business, conservation, Latin American cultures and society, and Spanish language. Students have the option to live in apartments or to practice their Spanish and get fully immersed in the culture by living in a homestay. With Sebastian, you will go on an overnight tour to Buenos Aires and attend the field trip to Palacio Legislativo, the site where the Uruguayan parliament meets.

Sample courses for Montevideo

  • Afro-Uruguayan Identity and Candombe
  • Advanced Spanish; Composition; and Spanish Conversation
  • Intercultural Negotiation
  • International Marketing
  • One Ocean, One Health: Coastal Ecosystems and Conservation
  • Dances of Latin America
  • See more courses

View Montevideo summer program dates

La Habana summer session overview

The group travels together from Montevideo to La Habana where students will take 3-4 credits in Latin American politics, Cuban cultures and identities, health, or Spanish and will live in apartments with a host family during their stay. Field trips to Terrazas Eco Community, Santa Maria del Mar Beach, and Revolution Square are also planned with Sebastian.

Sample courses for La Habana

Student enjoying a pineapple drink in La Habana, Cuba.

  • Afro-Cuban Identity and Traditions
  • The Cuban Health Care System
  • People and Cultures of Cuba and the Caribbean
  • Government and Politics in Latin America
  • Latin American Social Revolutions
  • Spanish Conversation and Oral Skills
  • See more courses


View La Habana Summer Program dates

On-Site Staff Resident Director for Uruguay and La Habana programs

Sebastian Bombi, a native of Uruguay, is the Resident Director for the Montevideo and La Habana programs. He has worked for USAC since 2003, first as program staff in Costa Rica and now as the RD of the Cuba summer program and Uruguay semester program. The RD, with program assistant Orlando Santana, meets the group flight at the airport, provides an on-site orientation, arranges your program housing, and organizes interesting field studies and optional tours.

Meet the Resident Director