Study Abroad in Santiago de los Caballeros

Explore Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic

Welcome to Santiago de los Caballeros, the heart of the Cibao Valley and the cultural and university hub of the Dominican Republic (DR). With more than 40 years of establishment, CIEE Santiago DR offers the most robust Santiago de los Caballeros study abroad programs in the country. This vibrant city perfectly blends cultural heritage and natural beauty, offering a serene environment with easy access to pristine Caribbean beaches and hidden waterfall hikes. It’s an ideal location for students interested in exploring the natural wonders of Hispaniola Island while also immersing themselves in the center of one of the DR’s fastest growing growing cities. CIEE's partnership with the prestigious Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM) ensures all students receive a high-quality education while studying abroad in Santiago de los Caballeros and opens doors to the diverse community of the country.

When you study abroad in Santiago de los Caballeros, you will experience firsthand the unique opportunity to understand colonial history, migration, and social justice studies particularly related to racial identity. Santiago DR's proximity to Haiti provides a unique perspective, allowing students to delve into subjects such as sociology, economics, cultural studies, and more. Just a short distance away is Santo Domingo, the first city of the New World and a UNESCO World Heritage site; the perfect setting for colonial and decolonial history and African and Caribbean studies, all within the backdrop of the city's rich historical landmarks, live arts and music scene, and passionate baseball culture.

Santiago DR’s urban and rural development allow for strong health programs with a focus on community development. CIEE’s longstanding relationships with NGOs, public institutions, and local enterprises provide students with opportunities for internships and service work. Santiago de los Caballeros study abroad students can take advantage of experiential learning opportunities in various fields, including organizations focused on migration issues, youth development, community associations, health promotion and prevention, legal support, and climate justice.

The Dominican Republic is one of the most sustainable countries in terms of food production, with most of the food consumed locally produced. Studying abroad in Santiago de los Caballeros with CIEE offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the Dominican zest for life, supported by a loving homestay network, family-style cooking classes, and joyous rhythms. Picture yourself dancing bachata and merengue on the streets, with elders and youth alike, experiencing the rich music scene filling the air. CIEE Santiago de los Caballeros study abroad programs offer the perfect balance of classes, nature, and human connections, prioritizing personal and nourishing well-being.

While abroad, students may complete a part-time internship, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including agriculture, business, education, science, hospitality, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.

Whether you're interested in exploring the rural wonders of the DR, understanding complex social issues, or gaining hands-on work experience through community organizations, Santiago provides a dynamic and enriching environment for your academic and personal growth. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Caribbean! 

EXPLORE SANTIAGO PROGRAMS

About the Center

Situated on the Dominican Republic's Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM) campus, CIEE Santiago DR is proudly hosted inside the most prestigious university on the island. The CIEE DR study center sits on PUCMM’s campus, the ecological lung of the city and botanical garden, promoting study, leisure, and well-being.

Inside the study center, students will find classroom space, a student lounge for themselves, complimentary Wi-Fi, A/C, and printer access. The CIEE center is within walking distance of homestays and just a 15-minute drive from downtown Santiago DR where students can access ATMs, banks, restaurants, bookstores, cafés, and more. 

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