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Basque Studies Program Newsletter · Issue 35, 1987



University Studies in the Basque Country

It used to be that Americans who wanted to study in Spain or France were automatically pointed in the direction of Paris and Madrid. With their image of sophistication, art galleries and museums, these cities seemed the essence of French and Iberian culture. It has become obvious, however, that the cultural and linguistic complexities of these European countries may not be reduced to a single national image best reflected in the capital city.

It was for this reason that we decided to establish study abroad programs in provincial capitals which provide a window on both the predominant language and culture of Iberia and France, as well as that of the distinct people inhabiting the area which touches upon the Bay of Biscay. Established nearly six years ago, the USBC Consortium has provided students aged 19-72 from more than forty universities with a unique perspective of the Basque, Spanish, and French people.

And yes, students of Pau and San Sebastián programs visit the museums and art galleries of Paris and Madrid, for a week, each September.

The Pau Program

This program offers courses in French language (beginning-advanced), culture, literature, history, and geography. Pau is located 60 miles from the Atlantic beaches of Biarritz. Nestled at the foot of the formidable Pyrenees mountains, skiing, hiking and mountain climbing are among the many outdoor activities popular in the area. Pau offers the additional cultural dimension of the Bearn and Basque regions and a sense of tranquility which pervades a capital of 120,000 people. A limited selection of Basque courses are also available to the Consortium student, with the subject taught in French. Students generally dine at the university and live with local families selected by a program representative. Fall, winter, and spring quarters are offered.

The San Sebastián Program

The San Sebastián Program offers a unique blend of courses designed to provide intensive Spanish and/or Basque language. In addition, students may opt for courses in Basque and Iberian history and culture, art history, political science, economics, teacher education, folkdance and cuisine.

Beyond the classroom, there are innumerable experiences to be garnered from the one-week visit to Madrid, the two weeks in a picturesque fishing village, and the personal interaction afforded in living with natives and studying at the University of the Basque Country. San Sebastián combines the cultural resources of a seaside resort of international fame with the intimacy of a city of 175,000. Located only twelve miles from France, the student of the San Sebastián program has three languages and cultures within easy access.

Students may opt to participate in the fall, spring, or academic year-long program.

Six-week Summer Program

The summer program in San Sebastián is available for those unable to break away for a longer period. Participants normally take 6-8 credits or audit the available courses in Spanish language and literature (three levels), Basque language (beginning level), Basque and Iberian culture and Basque and Iberian history. Participants are lodged in single rooms at a local residence and participate in excursions each weekend.

University Studies in the Basque Country is a consortium project of Boise State University, the Universities of Nevada Las Vegas and Reno, and the University of the Basque Country. The academic coursework is accredited by these institutions and may be transferred to other universities. Regular university financial aid is available as well as some scholarships and loans from the Domingo Ansotegui-Lynn Fereday Memorial Fund, the Simon and Grace Gorostordoy Memorial Fund, the Simon and Grace Gorostordoy Memorial Fund, and the NABO scholarship for club members. We greatly appreciate the thoughtfulness of these contributors.

Since we wish to maintain small, quality programs, it has been necessary to limit enrollment. We still have openings available on each of the programs but have experienced strong interest and suggest that those interested request an information packet as soon as possible from the:

USBCC
University of Nevada Library
Reno, NV 89557
(702) 784-4854


  


Copyright © 2000 the Center for Basque Studies, University of Nevada, Reno. All rights reserved. Updated 19 March 2001. E-mail: basque@unr.edu