Semester in Palma
Unique Experiences
LEARN ABOUT THE TOURISM INDUSTRY
by visiting ParcBit, a technology-based business incubator
BIKE ALONG THE BAY OF PALMA
with other Spanish students to see the Cathedral, harbor, beaches, and old fishermen villages
VISIT THE MAIN FOOD MARKET
to experience Balearic Mediterranean food and culture firsthand
350
MILES OF PRISTINE COASTLINE
300+
ENDEMIC SPECIES OF ANIMALS
1,200
COMPANIES WORK OUT OF PARCBIT
Your Destination
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Palma de Mallorca is a bustling capital city with a laid-back island atmosphere. Its pristine beaches, rich history, fantastic nightlife, and one-of-a-kind gastronomy make it easy to see why Mallorca is a favorite among European tourists.
The port city of Palma is dominated by an impressive Gothic Cathedral, the elegant Moorish Almudaina Palace, and the round Medieval Bellver Castle. Mediterranean in essence, the palm-fringed marina bristles with masts, and beyond lies a tapestry of Gothic, Medieval, Modernist, and Moorish architecture, tiny shops, and busy squares. The flat terrain makes for easy walking and biking. On the rest of the island, you'll see small villages, stone houses, and the impressive Tramuntana Mountains. In and out of the city, you'll be tempted to adopt the local active way of life and make the most of the beautiful landscapes and azure waters around you.
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Palma.
The Culture
FEATURED EXCURSION
Enjoy an overnight excursion to Madrid, Spain’s capital and most populous city, where we visit Prado and Reina Sofia Museums, the Royal Palace, the Retiro Park, the old Austria Dinasty neighborhood, and the Puerta del Sol. During our visit, we will indulge in delicious tapas and famous churros with chocolate. Alternative overnights may include excursions to other locations in Spain, such as Seville, Granada, Valencia, etc.
OTHER EXCURSIONS & ACTIVITIES
- Day trip to Alcudia to wander on top of the old walls of the city, discover the traditional flea market, visit Pollentia Roman ruins, and hike La Victoria to see the impressive views of the mountains over the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean
- Participate in a wine tasting at a traditional local family-owned winery to learn about the history of the family and their wine, visit the vineyards, and taste their delicious products
- Visit two local newspapers (Diario de Mallorca, Mallorca Zeitung) and learn about the role of written press in Southern Europe
- Visit the City Hall and the Parliament of the Balearic Islands to learn about Spanish and local Government structures
PROJECTS
- Service Learning (non-credit): Beach clean-up with Mar de Fondo to learn about the importance of algae coverage and seagrass meadows, or teach English in public schools
Students interested in one of the following Academic Projects must submit additional materials as part of their course selection:
- Internship: A for-credit internship, in English or Spanish, to gain hands-on work experience in a local organization. Common placements include the tourism industry, business consulting, marketing, or event planning.
- Directed Independent Research: Designed for qualified students who have demonstrated academic rigor and curiosity toward a particular research topic; independent research topics will be approved by CIEE Palma and home institution and must reflect a topic that is relevant to Palma de Mallorca or Spain. English or Spanish.
Program Blogs
Best Viewpoints in Mallorca (by Helin Can)
Mallorca, one of the gorgeous Balearic Islands, is a paradise of stunning landscapes, crystal blue waters, and picturesque villages. From dramatic cliffs and lush mountains to serene beaches and charming... keep reading
Discover the Magic of Mediterranean Cuisine in Palma! (by Helin Can)
Deciding between programs in Spain? Imagine wandering through sunlit markets, the scent of fresh herbs and citrus in the air, as you immerse yourself in the beautiful culture of Palma... keep reading
Spain Celebrations: Top 5 Holidays in Spain
Let’s talk about Spain, where the sun shines brightly, the tapas are endless, the culture is electric, and the celebrations in Spain are plentiful. Whether you’re snacking on late-night churros... keep reading
HOUSING & MEALS
HOUSING
CIEE Palma offers students housing in homestays for optimal cultural and language immersion. Homestays are located within a 30-minute commute of downtown Palma and nearby convenient access to public transportation, supermarkets, shops, cafés, and eateries. The local university is accessible by metro (15-minute ride) and bus (20-minute ride) from the main square. CIEE classes meet in the downtown CIEE offices located inside ELE USAL Language Institute, located roughly 15 minutes on foot from the main square in Palma, and a 10-minute walk from the sea.
Standard Housing: Includes a single room at a homestay, with or without another CIEE student. Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family. Laundry service and Internet access are provided. All homestays are located within a 30-minute commute of Palma’s main square and the building where CIEE Palma is situated.
MEALS
Homestays: Students have breakfast and dinner with their host families, and they are responsible for lunch. Students do not typically have access to use the kitchen at the host family home.
Academics
The Semester in Palma program encourages students to link their unique Mediterranean surroundings with their classroom studies. Coursework could include anything from learning about the tourism economy to environmental conservation. Classes are taken at CIEE Palma and the Universitat de les Illes Balears (UIB).
Fall classes at the university end in December and official exams can take place in January. Spring classes end in May and official exams can take place in June. Early exams may be possible but must be confirmed on an individual basis with the professor of each course. Students may be able to take their exams early, though only if they request it at the start of the semester and it is confirmed by the professor. Housing will be covered until all exams are completed. However, as it is impossible to confirm exam schedules prior to arrival, we advise students who wish to take their exams early to book an airline ticket with a low change fee or a flexible departure date.
Universitat de les Illes Balears (UIB)
Founded in 1978, UIB is a public study and research institution situated in the Balearic Islands of the Mediterranean. Home to 16,000 students, UIB focuses on sustainability and society. Its campus is well connected to the center of Palma (15 minutes by metro).
Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.
Course Information
Course notes:
- For students who want to take classes in Spanish at the Universitat de les Illes Balears, five semesters of college-level Spanish (or equivalent) are required.
- For Academic Projects in Spanish, at least four semesters of college-level Spanish (or equivalent) are required.
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Languages and Cultural Studies
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Languages and Cultural Studies
Universitat de les Illes Balears (UIB)
The following lists are samplings of courses that may be available. Not all courses are offered each semester.
Spanish Language courses for International Students certified by Instituto Cervantes
A1 - Beginning Spanish
A2 - Elementary Spanish
B1 - Intermediate Spanish
B2 - Upper-intermediate Spanish
C1 - Advanced Spanish
C2 - Proficiency Spanish
Courses in Spanish* are offered from the following departments:
Biochemistry
Biology
Business and Management
Catalan Studies
Chemistry
Economics
Engineering
English Studies
History
Hotel Management
International Law
Mathematics
Philosophy
Physics
Psychology
Spanish Studies
Tourism
*For students who want to take classes in Spanish at the Universitat de les Illes Balears, five semesters of college-level Spanish (or equivalent) are required
Courses in English:
Fall:
Introduction to Tourism
Geography of Tourism
Tourism Operations Management
Tourism Marketing I
Tourism Marketing II
Lodging Management
Conference and Convention Management and Organization
Leisure and Entertainment Business Management
Sustainable Tourism
Economics of Tourism and Hospitality
Corporate Social Responsibility
Business Strategy
Strategic Management
Introduction to Markets and Financial Operations
Production and Operations Management
Commercial Management I (Marketing)
E-Marketing, Organizational Design and Human Resources
Financial Accounting I
Balance Analysis and Management Control
Information Technology Management
Economic Environment
Financial Economics
Econometrics
Games and Strategic Decisions
International Economics
Environmental Economics
Macro-econometrics
Economic Data Analysis
Photonics: Lasers and Applications
Spring:
Introduction to Business
Corporate Investment and Financing Decisions
Design of Organizations
Industrial Organization
Management Skills
Strategic Management
Financial Accounting II
Quality Management and Customer Service
Microeconomic Analysis of Tourism
Tourism Intermediaries
Environmental Economics in Tourist Areas
Corporate Finance
Organizational Design and Human Resources
Management of Human Resources
Tourism Industry Contracts
Public Law in Tourism
Tourism Marketing II
Electronic Commerce and Internet
Micro-econometrics
Economics of Tourism
Analysis of Economic Data
Macroeconomic Analysis of Tourism
Microeconomics
Industrial Economics
Air Transport Economics
Legal Protection of Tourists
Community Social Law
International Protection of Human Rights
International Trade Law
Populations and Physical Environment
Extension of Cellular Biology
Parasitology and Fauna of Sanitary Incidence
Applied Electromagnetism
Tensor Calculus and Groups
Econophysics, Nanostructures
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Palma is a top tourist destination, ideal for internships in tourism, hospitality, and business. The city offers opportunities in innovative startups at Parc Bit and international hotel chains. Students can join dynamic, multicultural teams while enjoying the Mediterranean ethos of joy in the workplace.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.
Finance
Study global markets, financial systems, and cross-border investment strategies in international firms, banks, and companies.
Hospitality and Tourism
Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.
Manufacturing
Study global supply chains, production technologies, and international business strategies in England, Singapore, and more.
Marketing, Sales and Service
Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.
Transportation, Distribution and Logistics
Deepen your understanding of international trade dynamics, supply chains, and logistics in firms, agencies, and centers.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Spring 2025 17 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $18,950 |
| Program Fall 2025 15 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $18,950 | |
| Program Fall 2024 15 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $18,950 |
| Program Academic year 2024-2025 38 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $18,950 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $12,456**
Housing = $6,000***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $1,190†
International Airfare = $1,200††
Local Transportation = $150
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $3,520Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays. Families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner) and students purchase lunch (there isn’t usually access to a kitchen).
††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $12,456**
Housing = $6,000***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $1,050†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $120
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $3,400Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays. Families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner) and students purchase lunch (there isn’t usually access to a kitchen).
††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $12,456**
Housing = $6,000***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $1,050†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $120
Books & Supplies = $60
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Total Costs = $3,400Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays. Families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner) and students purchase lunch (there isn’t usually access to a kitchen).
††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $12,456**
Housing = $6,000***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $18,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $1,050†
International Airfare = $1,250††
Local Transportation = $270
Books & Supplies = $120
Visa Fees = $160
Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500
Personal expenses = $260†††
Expenses during break = $1,300††††
Total Costs = $4,910Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays. Families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner) and students purchase lunch (there isn’t usually access to a kitchen).
††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
††††Academic year students who wish to stay onsite are responsible for arranging their housing and meals during the semester break, which is very long considering classes are over on Dec 22, and SP does not start until beginning of February. They could as well fly back to the US, approximately 650$
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Antonia Ferriol, PhD
Center Director
Antonia brings a great passion for teaching and a wealth of educational experience, having taught Spanish language, linguistics, literature, and culture at Pennsylvania State University, Middlebury College, Denison University, and...
Clara Copano
Program Coordinator
Clara worked as a Spanish Teacher at the Instituto Cervantes in Munich (Germany) and has over 3 years of experience teaching at University level and project management. She is passionate...
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
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