First-Semester Study Abroad in Madrid

Madrid Highlights

Centered in the diverse and dynamic city of Madrid, Syracuse Abroad’s program is designed for you to explore Spanish culture and its influence and impact on the world.

You can take courses in your major along with classes that take full advantage of the rich cultural resources of the city and region. You don’t need to know Spanish to apply to this program, as it offers the opportunity to study the language at whatever level is appropriate for you.

You'll begin with a traveling seminar for Discovery students, aimed at providing the best introduction to Spain and Europe. During that time, you’ll also meet fellow classmates and Syracuse staff and faculty. The Syracuse Madrid cultural activities and service-learning programs will further immerse you in your new surroundings.

I got to explore the world the way I wanted and make friends along the way. I feel like I can go anywhere and do almost anything I want. It’s empowering.

Rylee Smith ’26 Environmental Engineering , The College of Engineering and Computer Science

Read about the experience

Person taking a photo during a walking tour in Madrid, Spain.

Life in Madrid

As a truly global city, Madrid is a great location to study abroad due to its high student population and accommodations. It’s a culturally rich and diverse city that invites you to immerse yourself in its rhythms.

Living with a Spanish Host Family

In Madrid, you can live with a local family or in a residence hall. Both options give you a chance to be part of a community, practice Spanish and share experiences with new friends.

Insider Tips

Research the country beforehand
Start learning some local phrases before you go
Apply for study abroad scholarships
Immerse yourself in local culture
Don’t be afraid to try new things
Be open to making all kinds of new friends

Academics

Syracuse Madrid classes are based in the vibrant heart of the city. You can explore a range of topics across disciplines and expect a curriculum that is rigorous, innovative and distinguished by the same exceptional standards that apply in every other aspect of a Syracuse University academic experience. Your courses may fulfill curricular requirements so you can stay on track to graduate on time.

Courses

Each Syracuse Abroad center offers depth in particular areas of study. At Syracuse Madrid, these include:

Spanish Language studies
Writing
Chemistry
Earth Science
Mathematics
History
Sociology

Planning on majoring in Engineering or Computer Science? Considering enrolling in Discovery: Engineering and Computer Science in Madrid. This specialized Discovery program fulfills the same curricular requirements for first-year students focusing on Engineering and Computer Science on Syracuse University’s home campus, while providing a course schedule unique to the Madrid experience.

Wondering if Syracuse Madrid is the right fit for you? Explore your Syracuse Abroad options to discover the program that best fits your academic goals.

First-Year Seminar

Your Syracuse Madrid semester launches with one of several exciting traveling Signature Seminars. These 11-day, three-credit courses give you firsthand knowledge of the region and its history, politics and cultures.

Program Field Study

Go places and get ahead. Internships are great opportunities to apply classroom lessons to real work situations, explore career options and develop professional skills that translate no matter where you are. An onsite internship coordinator will work with you to find the placement that best suits your interests and qualifications through established relationships in many business sectors of Madrid.

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People on a walking tour in Madrid, Spain.