Mediterranean Marine Ecosystems & Sustainability (En Español)
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real-world Experience
Take on the skills of a marine biologist observing and inventorying species in marine environments. See firsthand biodiversity and marine ecosystem threats. Come home ready to make a difference in the sustainability of local ecosystems.
Credentials For Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, a portfolio and poster showcasing your Project on a marine biodiversity and sustainability topic, and service-learning hours documenting your engagement with the community.
Life Skills And New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and diverse friendships from across the U.S.
45
Hours Of Expert Instruction
12
Hours Of Service-learning
1
Life-changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Mallorca, a tourism hot spot known for dramatic landscapes and crystal blue waters.
It’s easy to fall in love with this stunning Balearic Island off the east coast of Spain. You can wander in any direction and be mesmerized by scenic coves, exquisite limestone mountains, luscious greenery, and a sea so clear that you can see the grains of sand at the bottom of the sea.
The capital, Palma de Mallorca, known as the “pearl of the Mediterranean,” bustles with tourism and commerce today. Here you’ll experience the spirited vibe and Mediterranean flair of streets filled with stylish boutiques, quirky shops, art galleries, and artisanal bakeries. Most restaurants spill out onto pedestrian streets buzzing with families enjoying their evenings together.
Founded by the Romans in 123 BC, Palma has been a crossroads of cultures throughout history. Its rich Islamic past is still evident within the casco antiguo, or Old Town, which also boasts Gothic structures from the Middle Ages and many hidden treasures, small museums, courtyards, and even an 800-year-old olive tree! Be sure to take a picture there of the tallest Gothic structure in Europe—La Seu cathedral.
Cultural Awareness
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 de Mallorca.
Weekly Learning Objectives
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Overnight at La Victoria natural area in Alcudia between the mountains and sea. Maneuver down a rocky path to the beach of Coll Baix. Snorkel, swim, kayak, and paddleboard. Sail back in a private boat.
- Travel back to the 14th century when you explore the unique circular Bellver Castle. Then climb to the top for sweeping views of Palma, the harbor, the sea, and the Tramuntana mountains.
- Dive into the blue water of Cabrera National Park and watch the colorful fish dance with you in the waves. Who knows? You might even encounter an inquisitive octopus.
- Take a boat ride to the uninhabited island of Sa Dragonera, swarming with Lilford’s wall lizards. These reptiles look like miniature dragons and cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
- Compete in a scavenger hunt in Palma’s historic Olivar market. Practice your Spanish with the vendors and feast your eyes on all the delicious Mallorquin produce.
Farewell Dinner
Students say wistful but joyous goodbyes to friends, staff, and host families.
Exploring the Wonders of Palma de Mallorca with Global Navigators
Recently, our spirited group of Global Navigators embarked on an exciting journey to the center of Palma de Mallorca, and it turned out to be an adventure filled with awe and delight.
A Day at Castle Bellver: The Perfect Spanish Study Break
When you think of studying Spanish in the enchanting island of Mallorca, endless vocabulary lists and grammar rules might come to mind. But for a group of enthusiastic Global Navigators, a recent field trip to the majestic Castle Bellver turned an ordinary Thursday into an extraordinary adventure. Nestled atop a hill overlooking the vibrant city of Palma, Castle Bellver is not only a historical gem but also a perfect escape from the classroom.
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students—Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. Students must have completed Freshman year of high school before traveling on program.
- Since program is taught in Spanish, participants must:
- Place at the Intermediate-Mid Level on the STAMP 4S language proficiency test. (Enrolled participants must take this test during one of the first two available test dates in the spring before the program starts. Those who do not place at the Intermediate-Mid Level may be moved to the English version of this program.)
- Have completed high school Spanish Level 3 or higher by the start of the program AND/OR be able to fully participate in an oral interview in Spanish with Intermediate-Mid proficiency or higher.
- Participants must have the ability to comfortably swim as the program is centered around the sea.
Important note on physical activities: This program involves engaging in moderate- to high-intensity physical activities, such as hiking, boating, and snorkeling.
For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
---|---|---|---|---|
Program Summer Session I 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,150 | |
Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,150 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and 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...