Humanities / Liberal arts
History of Spain Through Arts and Media
3 U.S. Credits
This course offers students a broad overview of Spanish history from the Middle Ages to the present day through the lens of cinema. To better understand contemporary Spanish society, the course highlights key historical events and themes, using selected films and historical texts for analysis.
The goal of this course is not only to teach students how to critically analyze film, but also to show how cinema can be both entertaining and educational, helping students deepen their understanding of Spanish culture and history.
Requirements: N/A
Language of Instruction: English or Spanish, depending on demand.
Medicine and Health in Art, Literature, and Cinema
3 US credits
Culture & Society in Contemporary Spain
3 US credits
Focusing on present-day Spain while grounding the discussion in historical context, this course provides an introduction to Spanish culture and institutions. Students gain an understanding of the country’s social, political, and economic structures. Key topics include: the restoration of the monarchy after the Franco dictatorship, the establishment of autonomous communities, and Spain’s current role on the global stage.
Requirements: N/A
Language of Instruction: English or Spanish, depending on demand.
The Gothic in Literature
3 US credits
This course explores the Gothic as a cultural and literary phenomenon, tracing its evolution from 18th-century literature to its modern expression in film. Students will study hallmark texts and movies, analyzing how themes of fear, horror, and the supernatural reflect deeper philosophical, psychological, and sociopolitical currents. The course encourages students to engage critically with the genre and consider its development within both European and American cultural contexts.
Requirements
Language of Instruction
Social Justice (+ Learning Service Internship)
3-6 US credits
This course introduces students to the foundations of social justice, connecting key theories—including Catholic social teaching—with practical strategies for social change. Students critically engage with major debates and contemporary issues, developing a well-rounded understanding of equity, rights, and advocacy.
An optional service-learning component allows students to complete a placement with a community organization or NGO, committing to a minimum of four hours per week. Reflective sessions are integrated into the academic experience to enhance learning and promote civic engagement.
Requirements: N/A.
Language of Instruction: English
Spanish language and culture
Spanish Beginner
3 US credits
Spanish for Beginners is a great introduction to Spanish as a foreign language. Whether you have no prior experience or just a very basic foundation (0–1 semesters), this course is designed to help you start building essential vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills in an accessible and supportive environment.
Requirements: None
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Spanish Intermediate I
3 US credits
This course is ideal for students with some previous Spanish experience. It reinforces and expands core skills, helping learners understand native speakers more easily and communicate about everyday topics and routines with greater confidence.
Requirements: 1–2 previous semesters of Spanish or equivalent language skills
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Spanish Intermediate II
3 US credits
Designed for students with intermediate proficiency, this course enhances communication skills across past, present, and future tenses. Students will refine their listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities to better engage in more complex conversations and texts.
Requirements: 3 previous semesters of Spanish or equivalent language skills.
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Advanced Spanish I
3 US credits
This course helps advanced students strengthen both oral and written Spanish. Emphasis is placed on composition, reading comprehension, and interactive communication. Students will also begin applying subject-specific vocabulary relevant to their fields of study and engage fluently in conversations with native speakers.
Requirements: 4 previous semesters of Spanish or equivalent language skills
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Advanced Spanish II
3 US credits
A continuation of Advanced Spanish I, this course focuses on achieving higher-level fluency. Students will gain the ability to express themselves clearly and accurately, using a broad vocabulary that includes idiomatic and colloquial expressions.
Requirements: 5 or more Spanish semesters of Spanish or equivalent language skills.
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Spanish for Health Professions
3 US credits
This course is designed for students with at least an intermediate level of Spanish who are interested in health-related careers. It focuses on medical terminology and communication skills within healthcare settings, while also addressing common grammatical challenges to enhance fluency and confidence in professional contexts.
Requirements: 3 previous semesters of Spanish, interest in Health Professions, or equivalent language skills
Language of Instruction: Spanish.
Biotechnology
Advanced Instrumental Techniques
3 US credits
This course offers an overview of key modern tools used in biochemistry and molecular biology, presented in a protocol-based format. Students will explore the theoretical basis of these tools and gain hands-on experience in the lab, applying selected techniques through practical sessions.
Requirements: N/A
Language of Instruction: English.
Biochemistry I: Biomolecules
3 US credits
This course explores the structure, function, and interactions of biological macromolecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. These molecules form the structural and functional basis of life and are fundamental to understanding cellular biology.
Requirements: None
Language of Instruction: English.
Biochemistry II: Metabolism and Nutrition
3 US credits
This course focuses on cellular metabolism, nutritional biochemistry, and exercise physiology. Topics include metabolic disorders (e.g., obesity, diabetes, lipid metabolism issues), hormonal regulation, and metabolic adaptations. Students will also complete written assignments and research on metabolism, cell signaling, and the molecular biology of nutrients.
Requirements: None
Language of Instruction: English.
Molecular Genetics
3 US credits
Students will explore the molecular mechanisms underlying gene expression and inheritance. The course includes laboratory sessions on basic molecular genetics techniques, participation in relevant scientific seminars, and introductory training in bioinformatics.
Requirements: None
Language of Instruction: English.
Proteomics
3 US credits
This course focuses on the large-scale, comprehensive study of a specific proteome, including information on protein abundance, variations, and modifications, as well as their interacting partners and networks, in order to understand cellular processes.
Requirements: None
Language of Instruction: English.
Stem Cells
3 US credits
The primary goal of this course is to expose students to the foundations of Regenerative Medicine by engaging them in the critical reading of scientific manuscripts in the field of stem cell biology. Students will be able to differentiate and characterize various types of stem cells and stem cell modeling systems; identify factors that make certain diseases suitable for stem cell treatment; and analyze and apply information from academic articles to solve scientific challenges.
Requirements: None
Language of Instruction: English.
Marine Sciencies
Environmental Education
3 US credits
The main goals of this course are to:
- Understand the meaning and importanve of Environmental Education.
- Become aware of current environmental issues.
- Acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to design environmental education activities.
Develop and implement practical applications of environmental education.
Prerequisites: None
Language of Instruction: English
Environmental Impact Assessment
3 US credits
The main goals of this course are to:
- Understand the legislative framework of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), including its structure, content, and general methodology.
- Identify, predict, and evaluate the economic, environmental, and social impacts of development activities, especially in coastal areas.
- Provide essential environmental information for decision-making.
- Promote environmentally sustainable development by identifying appropriate alternatives and mitigation measures
Prerequisites: background in general concepts of Biodiversity, Ecology and Geology.
Language of Instruction: English
Marine Biotechnology
3 US credits
The main goals of this course are to:
- Apply science and technology to generate knowledge, goods, and services from marine biological resources.
- Describe the characteristics of secondary metabolites.
- Introduce bioprospecting strategies and screening techniques for marine organisms, along with a variety of biotechnological approaches (treatment technologies, bioremediation, on-site and ex-situ technologies).
- Learn about the main biotechnological applications in marine animals, human health, aquaculture, and food safety.
- Gain hands-on laboratory training and practical experience in techniques such as PCR, RNA synthesis and extraction, and electrophoresis.
Prerequisites: Basic biochemistry (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids), and other biomolecules (RNA, DNA). Basic cell biology (photosynthesis, metabolism, etc.). Basic taxonomy.
Language of Instruction: English
Protected Areas and Recovery of Species
3 US credits
The main goals of this course are to:
- Recognize the different categories used to classify protected natural areas and understand their application in real-world environments.
- Understand key concepts and methodological strategies related to the conservation and management of protected natural spaces.
- Assess the level of threat to habitats and species and evaluate the consequences for both natural ecosystems and socio-economic systems.
- Learn general tools and techniques for the recovery of threatened species, including the role and function of species recovery centers.
- Apply relevant legislation related to habitat and species recovery.
Prerequisites: None
Language of Instruction: English
Marine Biology (Internship I & II)
At the Institute of Environment and Marine Science Research (IMEDMAR )
3 / 6 US credits
The main goals of this internship are to:
- Apply knowledge acquired in previous coursework within a pre-professional, real-world context.
- Develop practical skills—both individually and in teams—related to specific activities required in marine industries or research settings.
- Provide technical advice to companies operating in the marine sector.
- Acquire experience in basic or applied marine research.
- Promote a proactive, hands-on learning approach for students.
Prerequisites: Diving certification (students have the opportunity to obtain it during their stay).
Language of Instruction: Spanish / English
Phisioterapy
Cellular and molecular biology
3 US credits
The surface of our planet is populated by curious living forms. The life is an intricately and organized system of chemical factories, that they acquire the matter from their surroundings, and they use these raw materials to generate copies of themselves. These living organisms are extraordinarily diverse. One of the most rapidly expanding areas of biological research is genetics, the biologic science that focuses on the mechanisms of inheritance. What could be more different than a tiger and a piece of seaweed, or a bacterium and a tree? Yet our ancestors, knowing nothing about cells or DNA, discovered that all these things had something in common. This is an exciting time to begin studying biology, the science of life. Almost daily, biologists are making remarkable new discoveries about the human species and about the millions of other organisms with which we share this planet. Therefore, the main objective of our subject is the study of Biology from the point of view of molecular genetics focused on health professionals.
Community physiotherapy and public health
3 US credits
This course covers the essential principles of public health and community-based physiotherapy. Topics include:
- Concepts of health and disease
- The role of the physiotherapist in the public health system
- Health systems, healthcare organizations, and levels of care
- Epidemiology and determinants of community health
- Health information systems and data analysis methods
- Demography and health communication strategies
Additionally, students will explore:
- Physiotherapy in primary and community care
- Occupational health: risk factors, workplace injuries and illnesses, and prevention strategies
- Health promotion and education programs targeting at-risk populations and chronic conditions
- Infectious diseases and environmental health
- Global and international health issues
- Quality management in healthcare organizations, including patient safety, strategic planning, and economic evaluation in public health
Physiology II
3 US credits
Physiology is the science that studies the functioning of life. We explore the different systems; organs and tissues that make the human body function correctly. Our primary goal is the human physiology study of the state of relative stability of the body's internal environment and these processes feedback systems, which helps to restore the conditions needed for health and life, the homeostasis. In this second subject our aim is to focus the mechanisms that allow the energy and matter uptake (digestive and respiratory systems), distribution (circulatory) and elimination (excretory). Furthermore, the major uses of physiology knowledge in therapeutics will be deeply discussed.
Sport Physiotherapy
3 US credits
Through this subject the student will learn the main pathological mechanisms of injuries in sport, how to apply the main sports physiotherapy techniques and procedures. Determine the objectives and plan and execute the activity plan for recovery in sports physiotherapy.
Apply different techniques and physiotherapy methods in the field of sport.
Sports
Sports Injuries
3 US credits
Strength and Conditioning
3 US credits
This course aims to:
- Develop knowledge of key terminology and fundamental principles in strength and conditioning.
- Understand and apply methods to improve physical performance across various contexts, including health, education, and elite sports.
- Identify and correct critical elements during physical training through observation and analysis.
- Learn the methodology, tools, and principles used to develop physical capacities such as strength, endurance, and power.
- Explore how different physical qualities interact and influence training outcomes.
Prerequisites: None
Language of Instruction: English
Technologies Applied to Sport Sciences
3 US credits
Nursing
Healthcare Ethics
3 US credits
This course provides a foundation in ethical theory and its application in nursing practice. Objectives include:
- Understanding the components of human action and moral character.
- Emphasizing professional responsibility grounded in moral, legal, and ethical principles.
- Gaining foundational knowledge in medical ethics, with a focus on nursing ethics.
- Promoting a holistic and humanized approach to patient and family care.
- Examining contemporary bioethical issues from various anthropological perspectives and their impact on healthcare delivery.
Prerequisites: None
Language of Instruction: English
Human Physiology
3 US credits
General goals:
- To help the student develop a constant personal and professional drive to better themselves, a problem-solving approach, a decision making attitude, leadership and management.
- To help the student develop effective study habits, time organization skills, individual autonomy, critical and self-critical thinking, and oral and written communication skills.
- To provide the student with the fundamental concepts to understand the human body functions
- To study the function of each one of the human body systems
- To provide the student with the scientific language to be used in clinical practice.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English
Life Support
3 US credits
General goals:
a. Understand the delivery of care to patients requiring urgent attention.
b. Understand the coordination and mechanisms of Emergency Care.
c. Acquire basic knowledge in the ability to communicate with individuals and family members during situations requiring Emergency Care.
d. Be able to identify and manage situations of imminent vital compromise.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English
Nutrition and Dietetics
3 US credits
General goals:
- To know the nutritional problems among the current population, the epidemiological factors responsible for them, and the measures used to promote healthy nutrition;
- To know the difference between Nutrition and Dietetics, and to gain the necessary knowledge about food to be able to elaborate a normal diet;
- To provide adequate knowledge for Nursing professionals in Primary Care to be able to carry out Nutrition programmes in Nursing clinics;
- To be able to elaborate balanced diets for a person of any age group, regardless of their status.
Requirements
Language of Instruction: English
Psichology
The Psychology of motivation and emotion
3 US credits
It aims to provide students with basic training in the study of motivational and emotional processes and behaviors that develop them. More specifically, students will learn about the control of individual action on social factors and the role of emotions in daily life. Documentary sources will be used for further analysis of current issues, promote the use of the methodology and research techniques of psychology, to understand new developments taking place in this scientific discipline. In this way, students acquire a greater capacity to understand and interpret the information and evidence, which will continue to promote a critical spirit and allow you to properly deal with a psychological understanding of human beings.
Requirements:
To understand and manage the basic terminology of psychology specific and more general vocabulary adopted in Cognitive Sciences.
To know and understand the overall functioning and the limits of the processes of attention, perception, learning and memory that underlie the mental life and behavior of people in their daily work.
Language of Instruction: English.
Group Psychology
3 US credits
General goals:
- To facilitate the reflection on the historical background of psychology of groups
- To understand the concept of group as well as how to approach to it in social psychology
- To identify the structure and the relevant group processes as well as the main characteristics of intergroup relations.
- To be able to describe and analyze the processes of interaction, the group dynamics and the group and intergroup structure
- To experience in simulated situations, different group phenomena in traditional contexts of group psychology
- To Study the main methods used in psychology of groups.
Requirements:
Having previously studied the processes of social perception, the development of attitudes, the personal attraction and the social and discriminatory influence processes, will help students to optimally understand the group processes and their characteristic phenomena.
Language of Instruction: English.
Organizational Climate Management
3 US credits
The construct of organizational climate refers to the employees' perceptions of their work environment. These perceptions are important because they have a remarkable impact of both employees' and organizations' well-being and performance. In this course, we will focus on identifying and understanding a number of variables through which positive organizational climates can be fostered, such as organizational justice, organizational structure, leadership, or psychological safety, among others.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English.
Sleeping Disorders
3 US credits
Cognitive goals:
- Understand and analyze the neural mechanisms underlying sleep behavior, biological and chemical variables that deprive and alter it, and the interaction and interrelationship with other human behaviors.
- Classification, characterization and neurobiological causes of sleep disorders.
- Know the main documentary sources of discipline in order to develop the ability to complete and update knowledge in the future.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English.
Introduction to Neurosciences
This course offers an essential introduction to the field of neuroscience, focusing on the fundamental principles of neurobiology and neurophysiology. Students will study the structure and function of neurons and glial cells, as well as the organization and roles of key brain regions such as the cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem. Core topics include action potentials, synaptic transmission, and neural networks. The course also introduces key techniques used in neuroscience research, including neuroimaging and electrophysiology. In addition, students will explore the pathophysiology of common neurological disorders, such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease, while reflecting on the ethical and societal implications of advancements in neuroscience.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English
Education
Teaching ESL and Children Literature
3 US credits
General goals:
- To provide an overview of different active teaching and learning methodologies and techniques for the pre-school and elementary classroom.
- To provide and analyze a wide-ranging resource of practical ideas to be used and adapted flexibly and creatively in different contexts and situations.
- To provide students with a wide approach to children's literature in English.
- To provide broad perspectives on significant aspects of literature: genre, timeline, setting in time and place, relevant authors, among others.
- To be acquainted with ITC's and see the benefits when teaching literature to children.
Requirements
Language of Instruction: English
Education Internship
3 / 6 / 12 US credits
You will have the opportunity to fulfill a teacher training period at a school in Valencia. Depending on the degree you are studying and on your linguistic competence in English and /or Spanish, you will be placed at the school which best fits your needs. While at school, you will have a tutor who will guide you throughout the whole process. Hands-on learning for prospective teachers!
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: Spanish
Business
Any Study Abroad student can take regular UCV Direct Enrollment courses, grado courses, upon his/her Home University advisor´s. Those courses are not specially designed for the Study Abroad Program, therefore assessment methods, study guides and general methodologies could be different. On the other hand, study abroad students have the opportunity of interacting with Spanish and European exchange students. Please, contact us to further information about Business courses (studyabroad@ucv.es).
Dentistry
Introduction to Dentistry
3 US credits
This course provides a foundational introduction to dentistry, covering essential topics such as oral-facial anatomy, basic dental pathology, diagnostic and radiographic techniques, and principles of prevention and oral health promotion. Students will develop clinical communication skills, learn to conduct patient interviews, take medical and dental histories, and perform supervised diagnostic procedures. The course also emphasizes ethics, infection control, ergonomics, and teamwork in dental practice. Students will gain basic knowledge of community dentistry and learn to communicate effectively in both clinical and academic settings.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English
Embryology and General Anatomy I
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to human anatomy, embryonic development, and organogenesis, emphasizing the structural and functional understanding of tissues, organs, and systems through macroscopic, microscopic, and imaging techniques. Students will acquire foundational knowledge in anatomical terminology, neuroanatomy, and biomechanics, while gaining practical skills in dissection and the use of surgical instruments. The curriculum fosters critical thinking, bibliographic research, and teamwork, enabling students to apply anatomical knowledge in clinical, surgical, and professional contexts. Emphasis is placed on cellular structure, inheritance, homeostasis, growth, and aging across life stages and sexes. Students will also develop competencies in communication, data interpretation, and scientific reasoning, preparing them for autonomous learning and future health sciences studies.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English
Science, Reason and Faith
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the human person from philosophical, anthropological, and ethical perspectives. It emphasizes the integral nature of the person—physical, psychological, rational, and spiritual—while highlighting the social and moral dimensions of human life. Students will examine the roles of love, solidarity, freedom, and responsibility, and engage with scientific insights on hominization and humanization. The course encourages reflection on existential questions such as desire, limitation, and transcendence, and explores the significance of emotions in personal identity. Ultimately, it fosters a deepened sense of faith and critical dialogue with contemporary culture on the challenges of the human condition.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English
General and dental pharmacology
This course provides a comprehensive foundation in general and dental pharmacology, focusing on the major pharmacological groups and their clinical applications in dental practice. Students will gain the ability to recognize adverse drug reactions, understand key drug and food interactions, and evaluate appropriate therapeutic options for specific clinical cases. Emphasis is placed on applying pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles using prior physiological knowledge, as well as interpreting dose-response relationships for various administration routes. Additionally, the course familiarizes students with different pharmaceutical forms and methods of drug administration. Through both theoretical assessments and practical sessions, students will develop the critical skills needed to safely and effectively integrate pharmacology into their professional practice.
Requirements: none
Language of Instruction: English