Universidad Complutense de Madrid

1. Universidad Complutensede Madrid

2. Madrid’sLocation • Located in the centerof Spain, it’s the country’s capital and largest city. • Population is roughly 3.4 million and the entire population of the metropolitan area is nearly 7 million. • 3rd largest city in the European Union, after London and Berlin

3. Why Madrid? • Prado Museum & Royal Palace • London, Paris and Rome in less than 3 hours by air • Wonderful array of Spanish cities in 3 hours or less • Museo Reina Sofía • Students from all over the world • Cosmopolitan city • Courses taught in English

4. About Madrid • Madrid contains the worlds largest collection of Picasso’s work as well as that of many other famous Spanish artists. • "Fiesta de San Isidro" is Madrid's biggest festival – a week long - and one of the best ways to experience the culture of the people of Madrid, "los Madrileños".

5. More about Madrid • According to FIFA, Real Madrid FC is the world's most successful football club of the 20th century. Their stadium is called Bernabéu, and is located in Chamartín in the North of Madrid. The capacity is 85,000 spectators. • Madrid is located on a plateau 2,133 feet above sea level. • Madrid enjoys more cloudless days than almost any other city in Europe.

6. About UCM • Originally founded in 1492 in the city of Alcalá de Henares • One of the most prestigiousuniversities in Spain. • Known affectionately as La Complu • It’s a world class university which has been recognized by the Ministry of Education as an International Campus of Excellence • The Complutense University of Madrid is a member of the Europeum and has over 130,000 students, 4,000 of which are international students. • Take a virtual tour at: www.ucm.es/campusvirtual

7. Entrance requirements • UCM can only accept incoming students for the areas of studies specified in bilateral agreements between universities. Come to 304 Fairchild to figure out an enrollment plan! • Inquiries phone number: +34 914520400Interested international applicants can enquire by calling 91-3 94 69 20 to 21. Inquiries can also be sent by facsimile through 91-3 94 69 24. International applicants can also send inquiries through email at rrinter@rect.ucm.es. Through these contact information, interested applicants can ask questions regarding admission requirements, course offerings, special examinations, and accommodation options.

8. Programs Offered The range of educational degrees offered at the Complutense University is one of the most complete in Europe and includes a wide variety of specialty areas. The degrees are grouped into five areas of knowledge: Arts and Humanities, Sciences, Health Sciences, Social and Legal Sciences, and Engineering. For more information see: www.ucm.es

9. Programs Offered BACHELOR'S DEGREES. 2010-2011 • Arts and Humanities • Archaeology HeritageFine ArtsConservation and RestorationDesignSpanish Language and LiteratureEnglish StudiesSemitic and Islamic StudiesClassical PhilologyPhilosophyHistoryArt HistoryModern Languages and LiteratureTranslation and Interpretation • Sciences • BiologyBiochemistryPhysicsGeologyMathematics Mathematics and StatisticsChemistry • Social and Legal Sciences • Business Administration and ManagementSocial and Cultural AnthropologyPolitical SciencesCommerceAudiovisual CommunicationLawSpanish and French LawEconomicsSocial PedagogyApplied StatisticsGeography and Spatial PlanningManagement and Public AdministrationInformation Technology Management for BusinessInformation and DocumentationPre-school TeacherPrimary Education TeacherPedagogyJournalismAdvertising and Public RelationsInternational RelationsLabor Relations and Human ResourcesSociologySocial WorkTourism • Health Sciences • NursingPharmacyPhysiotherapySpeech PathologyMedicineHuman Nutrition and DieteticsDentistryOptics and OptometryChiropodyPsychologyOccupational TherapyVeterinary Science • Engineering • Computer EngineeringGeological EngineeringComputer Science EngineeringMathematical EngineeringChemical EngineeringSoftware Engineering http://portal.ucm.es/en/web/en-ucm/educational-opportunities

10. Gradingsystem

11. Academic Calendar • The Academic Year starts in the first week of October an ends mid July, with the following holiday periods: • - Christmas Break: 2 weeks December 22nd- January 8th- Easter Break: 10 days in March or April (until the Easter Monday) - Summer Holiday: July 15th - October 1st- Saint Thomas: January 28th- Saint Joseph: March 19th- Labor Day: May 1st- Day off in Madrid: May 2nd- Day off in Madrid: May 15th- Spanish National Holiday: October 12th- Open Course Day: October 1st or 2nd - Constitution Day: December 6th • The second semester starts around February 15th. • http://www.ucm.es/cont/descargas/documento33487.pdf

12. Accommodations • Shared flats (apartments) (approximately 280€ to 450€, ($400 - $643) a one month deposit is required.) • The University helps to find lodging, but early information is needed about the needs of each student (arrival date, stay duration, etc.). • The housing application form must be received as soon as possible.

13. Getting a Student Visa • If your country of origin is the USA, you will of course need a valid passport to visit Spain, but you will also need to obtain a visa if you will be in Spain for longer than 3 months. • Getting a student visa can take from one week to several months so it’s recommended that you start the application process as early as possible or at least get a confirmation from the consulate about approximately how long time the process will take. • All documentation required for the student visa to Spain has to be presented in person at the nearest Spanish consulate– ours is in Chicago. • Normally the consulate will ask for a confirmation letter from the Spanish university stating which course you are signed up for, how many hours and for how long. Frequently the consulate will also request an accommodation confirmation letter stating where you will be living and who is responsible for your accommodation. • You will also have to fill out a number of forms and bring at least 3 photos (passport size). • You will also normally need show valid international medical insurance. • The consulate might also ask for documentation that can prove that you can maintain yourself financially during your stay in Spain. • In some rare cases the consulate might even ask for a medical certificate and crime record but this is not very common. • Information found at: http://www.gostudyspain.es/Visa.htm

14. GettingtoMadrid • There are lots of websites you can use to find reasonably priced flights. Here are a few to start you off: • www.travelocity.com • www.priceline.com • www.cheapflights.com

15. Getting aroundin Madrid www.madridinfosite.com • Metro • Buses – city and tourist • Taxi • Long distance buses • Trains

16. Getting around in Madrid… METRO • Quick, clean, safe and easy to use– but pickpocketsare frequentso be cautious • Goes practically anywhere in the city. • The lines are differentiated by color and are numbered 1 to 13. • Tickets can be purchased at any kiosk or station • Individual tickets for 1€ are available, as well as packages of 10 for 6.15€ and monthly passes. (The pack of 10 is recommended, because the pass can be used by different people. The tickets can be used with the metro or with the public bus system.) • The metro runs from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. • Always carry a map of Madrid.

17. Getting around in Madrid… BUSES – CITY & TOURIST • Good alternative to the metro, especially if one's objective is to see Madrid. • Not as agile as the metro, but very comfortable. • Air conditioning in all buses • About half of the buses are wheelchair accessible. • Bus and metro tickets are the same. If one does not have a ticket, it is possible to directly pay the driver. • Boarding a bus with luggage is left up to the driver, who can deny entry if the bus is very full. • The majority of the buses run from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. The night buses (called “buhos”) run less frequently and always pass by the Plaza de Cibeles. The price is the same.

18. Getting around in Madrid… TAXI • The fare is always indicated by the taxi meter in the front part of the taxi. The taxi meter starts its fare with the “bajada de bandera” (lowering of the flag), which is usually about 1.5€. • After that, the taxi meter runs according to distance covered, the urban area, the day of the week (higher fares on holidays), and the pickup point (higher fares for pickups in bus stations, train stations and airport). • The night fare is always higher than the day fare. In no case is one owed to pay additional fares for luggage or pets transport. All additional fares are always indicated on informational signs on the back windows of the taxi. • Remember that the taxi should always charge by the meter. Turn down any negotiated or closed fares which, besides being illegal, almost always end up being a more expensive fare. If unsatisfied with the service, remember to write down and call in the taxi registration and license plate numbers.

19. Getting around in Madrid… LONG DISTANCE BUSES • The bus is the cheapest form of transport for getting around Spain. In most cases it is a relatively quick and quality form of transportation. Often it is faster than traveling by train (especially along the Spanish coast). • The long distance buses depart from three different stations in Madrid: Mendez Alvaro, Avenida de America and Conde de Casal.

20. Getting around in Madrid… TRAINS • Comfortable, economical and efficient. • The system is composed of 13 lines that run throughout Madrid. • The suburban trains are especially convenient and fast for trips to nearby cities such as Toledo, Segovia, El Escorial and Aranjuez. • All lines leave or pass through Atocha. The main suburban train stations are Chamartín, Príncipe Pío, NuevosMinisterios, Recoletos, Delicias, Embajadores, Aluche and Méndez Alvaro. • The trains operate daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. They usually pass through every 15 to 30 minutes. The single ticket price varies between 1.10 and 3.40, depending on the trip.

21. TripAdvisor’sClothing Guide • When you are in your own city and see a group of foreign tourists, you take a quick look at them and make an instant judgment of them, whether they are educated or not. This is human nature and first impressions are important. • When you go to Spain, the Spanish people you come in contact with will also be getting their first impressions of you, depending on your dress. You may not get the best treatment at hotels and restaurants if you are not dressed appropriately. Some restaurants and discotheques will not let you in.

22. TripAdvisor’sClothing Guide http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g187427-c98918/Spain:Dress.Suggestions.For.Spain.html • This is a guide for educated visitors to Spain who want to blend in and not stand out as tourists. Those who dress properly according to Spanish customs will not be ashamed if they meet Spanish people. • By not standing out in crowds, they will not be the targets of pickpockets. • Dressing according to local customs shows respect for the country that you visit. • There are foreigners who are proud of the fact that in their vacation to Spain they wore shorts all the time. This is not the guide for them.

23. TripAdvisor’sClothing Guide • Spain is a modern country, but with many traditions of dress. The Spanish take pride in the way they dress, and they dress well compared to people of other western countries. Also Spanish women are much more feminine than their counterparts in other western countries. All of the Spanish take much care and thought when buying their clothes because they want to be well dressed.

24. TripAdvisor’sClothing Guide • You want to pack lightly and leave about a third of your suitcase empty for the souvenirs you will buy. Going to stores and buying things you cannot find in your own country is one of the fun things of travel.

25. TripAdvisor’sClothing Guide • There are hardly any self service laundromats in Spain, because this is not the custom in the country. You can buy liquid detergent at any supermarket in Spain, so you do not have to bring this. If you are staying in an apartment, it may have a laundry machine, but it may not have a clothes dryer. Most people hang dry their entire wardrobe, often it will be outdoors, similar to this photo.

26. What notto bring • If you want to avoid screaming "American tourist, rob me” avoid: • bright white sneakers • baseball caps • Tee or sweat shirts with sayings or pictures on them - and shorts in cities. Longer, dressy shorts are acceptable for women, but definitely avoid short shorts and skirts!

27. Packing tips • Clothing: • Layers are always a good idea. Try to stick with neutral colors – black, white, brown. Colors are fine, just know that you’ll be calling attention to yourself and that’s not always a good idea. Bring a variety. • Money belts – These are essential. You can wear them discretely underneath almost any type of clothing. Bring two just in case.

28. Packing tips • Electronics: • Mobile phones are very easy to purchase and manage. You do not need to get one before arriving in Spain. Pay-as-you-go phones are the most convenient to monitor spending. • Adapters are cheap and sold in several markets and stores, but it might be wise to bring one so you can charge your computer the first few nights. However, you must be careful to research your electronic devices to avoid destroying them with improper voltage! Visit the following website for more information: http://aboutspaintravel.com/what-type-electric-power-adapters-are-needed-spain-us-travelers

29. IdealSpain: Foodin Spain http://www.idealspain.com/pages/information/culture.htm • Eating out in Spain is relatively cheap and meals are usually substantial instead of gourmet. The Spanish tradition of tapasis a good way to sample the local food. Tapas are small dishes of snacks which are served anytime especially in small bars. They cover all types of foods from seafood to vegetables. Many Spanish people make an evening of hopping from bar to bar trying different tapas. Another of Spain's favorites is Serrano Ham. • Spain is famous for its fish delicacies and simply must be sampled, especially if you get to coastal areas. Paellahas long been a Spanish favorite, based on either meat or seafood. Every region in Spain has its own specialties.

30. IdealSpain: Localpeople http://www.idealspain.com/pages/information/culture.htm • Spaniards in general are a very friendly, warm and fun-loving race. People seem to think that they are lazy but this is simply NOT true. In general, Spanish people are hard-working but they do know how to enjoy their free time. Family life is very important in Spain and this features in every region. Towards the south of Spain, life is considerably slower and more relaxed. http://christina66.multiply.com/journal/item/114 • Spanish people are very proud of their history and culture and are very happy when foreigners take an interest. They love to show off and this is so evident in their dance such as flamenco. They need little excuse for a party of a fiesta and this is now part of everyday life in Spain.

31. IdealSpain: Lifestyle http://www.idealspain.com/pages/information/culture.htm • When it comes to technology in Spain they are behind most of Europe but catching up fast. Spain has been a little slow to realize the potential of the internet whereas mobile phones were quick to take off. You don't have to look far to see people on their mobiles. New technology is interesting to Spaniards but they are a little slow to take it up. It appears that new technology is far less important thansocializing and enjoying life. • The Spanish way of life is somewhat slower than the rest of Europe, especially in the south. This may be seen as lazy, but when the Spanish work, they work hard. They have adapted to the weather and play hard too. It is quite common for life to begin when the sun goes down, especially in the summer. They are a very happy people who enjoy life to the fullest. They love music, dance and food.

32. IdealSpain: Nightlife http://www.idealspain.com/pages/information/culture.htm • Much of Spanish life is lived in the streets and the atmosphere is especially vibrant at fiesta time. On a warm evening the street cafes and bars can fill to capacity as people sit and relax. Most night clubs open late at night and don't close until late the following day (11 p.m. – 7 a.m.) Spanish men tend to maintain eye contact with females for longer, although this does not mean anything. • Smoking is now banned in all interior public places in Spain although it is common for people to take no notice. Most bars still allow smoking and it is signposted on the door.

33. How’s the weather? • Winter (December to middle March)Though cold, winter in Madrid is usually quite dry, and for those not looking for sun-tanning weather it can be a very refreshing time of the year to visit the city. It occasionally snows in the center, but it rarely accumulates. While there is certainly no shortage of activity in the city, there are far less tourist than at other times of the year, resulting in smaller crowds at museums and other tourist centers, off-season rates at hotels etc. It is worth keeping in mind that the temperatures at night can go well below zero so make sure you get a room with proper heating. • SUITABLE CLOTHING: You'll want warm clothes, including sweaters, as heating is not guaranteed in many places. Though rain is relatively infrequent it can by no means be ruled out. A water-resistant jacket and umbrella should suffice, and a pair of heavy shoes or lightweight boots that don't mind getting wet are advisable.

34. How’s the weather? • Spring (middle March through May)Spring is one of the most pleasant times of the year to visit Madrid. The long days are generally warm and the nights cool. The nightlife goes up a notch, as the warmth seems to get the blood (and beer) flowing. Large numbers of young people take to the streets for the all-night 'marcha' and all the outdoor cafes open up. During Holy week ('Semana Santa', the week leading up to Easter) Madrid is usually fairly quiet as the Madrid masses head to the south for the processions and the year's first sun-tan. Rain is not uncommon at this time of the year, and days are often quite windy. • SUITABLE CLOTHING: You will have to allow for a range of temperature. Its very unlikely to get very cold, but it can get quite chilly at night, particularly if you go outside the center. At mid day the temperature can easily rise to short sleeve temperatures. Rain gear is recommended, as is a jacket to break the wind.

35. How’s the weather? • Summer (June through August)Temperature-wise, Madrid's summer should really be divided into two sections; the pleasant summer and very-hot-summer. The former may or may not last all through June, and then begins again in mid to late August. This is a good time of the year to visit Madrid, especially to enjoy the long warm nights in June, when the street life is at its best. In July and through most of August, the city simply gets very hot, with temperature frequently touching into the 40's (over 100 Fahrenheit). The real problem with this time of the year in Madrid is that it doesn't cool down very much at night, making sleeping uncomfortable for those without air-conditioning. An important summer phenomenon is that in August the locals pour out of the city en-masse. Many people like it in Madrid this time of year, as the city has much less traffic (its actually possible to find a parking spot!), the mood is quiet, many restaurants and shops are closed, but the ones that are open are likely to be much less busy than normal. If you like to have 'the city to yourself', then August may be the time for you to visit. If you're lucky, the cooler weather will return sooner rather than later. Rain is infrequent but there are the occasional summer storms. • SUITABLE CLOTHING: Short- sleeved shirts, shorts, sun glasses, hats to keep the sun off your head. Sandals are a very good idea, and Madrid is a good place to buy them. Sun cream if you are of fair complexion.

36. How’s the weather? • Autumn (September through November)Like spring, autumn is an excellent time for a visit. The city's mood is quite different as everyone has recently returned to work or school after the August holidays, the temperature is very pleasant with people relieved that the intense July sun is behind them. There are also plentlyof cultural activities going on. Late in autumn there is always the risk of some rain, but its rarely so much that an umbrella can't cope. • SUITABLE CLOTHING: Like spring you have to bring clothes for a range of temperatures. Its unlikely to get so cold that a decent sweater can't cope though. Obviously the later in Autumn you go the cooler it gets. • http://www.aboutmadrid.com/madrid/weather.asp

37. Staying in touch • Madrid is 7 hours ahead of Kansas time • If you do not have internet in your place of residence, no worries – “internet cafes” are all over the place. • Remember not to let staying in touch with people back home overshadow having new experiences abroad – don’t be a slave to your computer! • Remember to send postcards!

38. Useful websites • www.ucm.es/ • www.aboutmadrid.com/madrid • http://madrid.university-guides.com/ • http://www.fodors.com/community/travel-tips-trip-ideas/what-kind-of-shoes-and-bags-to-bring-to-spain.cfm • http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g187427-c98918/Spain:Dress.Suggestions.For.Spain.html • http://www.idealspain.com/pages/information/culture.htm • http://www.lingolex.com/swom/wom-survival.htm • And of course – www.ksu.edu/studyabroad