Valladolid is a city located in the northwest of Spain, in the autonomous community of Castile and León. With a population of around 350,000, it is known for its rich history, having briefly served as the capital of Spain in the 17th century and being the place where Christopher Columbus died in 1506, among many other historical events.

Valladolid is also an important cultural and university hub, home to one of Spain's and Europe's oldest universities, the University of Valladolid, founded in 1241. The city is notable for its Renaissance architecture, its film and theater festivals, and its cuisine, particularly lechazo (roast lamb).

Valladolid is recognized as one of the safest cities in Spain, making it an attractive destination for both students and visitors. The city boasts a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, with well-maintained public spaces and a welcoming atmosphere. Its efficient public transportation and walkable city center contribute to an overall feeling of security.

Whether exploring its historic landmarks or enjoying the local nightlife, residents and tourists alike can feel at ease in Valladolid, which is often ranked among Spain's most secure urban areas.

Studying at the University of Valladolid offers an incredible opportunity for U.S. students of Spanish to immerse themselves in the language and culture of Spain. As one of the oldest universities in the country and the continent, it has a rich academic tradition combined with modern facilities.

The city of Valladolid provides a more authentic Spanish experience compared to larger tourist-heavy cities, allowing students to practice Spanish in daily life and interact with locals. With a wide range of programs and courses, students can expand their knowledge while enjoying a vibrant campus life, all within a safe and historic city. Plus, Valladolid’s central location makes it easy to explore other parts of Spain during weekends or holidays.

Staying with a Spanish host family is the best way to fully experience life in Valladolid. Living with locals gives you daily opportunities to practice your Spanish in real-world situations, helping you improve much faster than in a classroom alone. You'll gain insights into Spanish customs, traditions, and daily routines that you wouldn’t get from other housing options.

Host families offer a warm, supportive environment where you can feel at home while abroad. Sharing meals and conversations with your hosts will not only deepen your cultural understanding but also create lasting connections. It’s a unique and enriching way to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Spain.

Study abroad at the University of Valladolid is available for both Fall & Spring Semester and/or Summer (June and/or July).

The academic curriculum at the University of Valladolid offers various academic itineraries designed to cater to different interests and professional goals for international students. Here’s a breakdown of the options:

ART & CULTURE: This track focuses on Spanish literature, the history of Spain, and Spanish art. It includes a monographic paper option and cultural workshops such as theatre, film, and contemporary Spanish writers. It’s ideal for those interested in the humanities.

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY: Aimed at students looking to improve their general Spanish language skills, this path emphasizes oral and written communication, grammar, vocabulary, and language use in public contexts.

SPANISH FOR BUSINESS: For students with an interest in business, this program covers business-related Spanish, communication techniques, and specialized grammar and vocabulary for professional contexts.

SPANISH FOR HEALTHCARE: Designed for students in healthcare, this track focuses on medical terminology and communication skills needed in healthcare settings, providing practical, context-specific language training.

TEACHER TRAINING: For those looking to teach Spanish, this itinerary includes curriculum design, language teaching methods, and Spanish as a second language.

Every itinerary is completed and combined daily with two hours of the general Spanish Language Skills curriculum, that provides a comprehensive learning experience for students aiming to learn grammar, oral expression, vocabulary and Spanish culture.