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About SSA

50 years of spanish study abroad

Our Story

SSA has been providing unique learning experiences to North American university-level students since 1969, in Spanish-speaking countries across the world.

Since our first programs launched in Seville (Spain), we have expanded to provide programs in Alicante and Barcelona; Córdoba and Patagonia, Argentina; San Juan, Puerto RicoHavana, Cuba, and Panama City, Panama.

We offer academic years, Spring and Fall semesters, as well as short programs of 3 to 4 weeks in JanuaryMay and summer months. And don’t worry – we offer programs in English too so you don’t need to speak Spanish to apply.

We invite you to expand your worldview through immersion in these fascinating cities. With a strong dedication to academic integrity and an emphasis on your personal growth, SSA has developed a reputation for superior quality and unique experiences.

Mission Statement

The mission of SSA is to promote our students’ in-depth understanding of Spanish-speaking countries through specifically designed and academically rigorous university-level and cultural travel programs. All of our students cross cultural boundaries to live as members of another culture and thus to learn about others as they learn about themselves.

 
Duke studens enjoy a day out on there time Abroad
Students enjoy their time eating dinner with host family

Diversity Statement

SSA believes that a diverse student body enriches each individual experience by guiding students to learn about others as they learn about themselves. In accordance with our mission to encourage our students to cross cultural boundaries, Spanish Studies promotes equal opportunities within our programs and does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, age, physical ability, gender, sexual orientation, or other characteristics. We believe in educating students on cultural tolerance and sensitivity, acceptance of differences, inclusiveness, and how diversity is viewed in other cultures.

 

“I will truly never forget my time spent in Spain; it has been such an important part of my life, where I learned a great deal about myself and the world around me.”

Memberships & Affiliations

Forum on Education Abroad

SSA Education Abroad is a member institution of The Forum on Education Abroad. Recognized by the U.S. government as the Standards Development Organization for education abroad, the Forum’s "Standards of Good Practice" are viewed as the definitive means by which the quality of education abroad programs may be judged. In 2009, SSA achieved certification through The Forum on Education Abroad’s Quality Improvement Program (QUIP). While that program has been suspended by The Forum, SSA still maintains its dedication to its Standards of Good Practice.

NAFSA Logo

NAFSA: Association of International Educators

NAFSA serves international educators and their institutions and organizations by setting standards of good practice, providing training and professional development opportunities, providing networking opportunities, and advocating for international education. SSA is an active member of NAFSA.

FEDELE: Spanish Federation of Associations of Spanish Schools for Foreigners

FEDELE member schools are dedicated to the full range of teaching Spanish language,cultural diversity, and history. FEDELE defines standards for quality in academics, as well as in additional services, such as installations, teaching staff, programs, lodging, reception, activities, insurance, etc.

American Association of Teachers of Spanish & Portuguese

The American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese promotes the study and teaching of the Spanish and Portuguese languages and their corresponding Hispanic, Luso-Brazilian, and other related literatures and cultures at all levels of education. SSA Education Abroad is a proud member of this association and has participated in many of its annual conferences.

Association of American Programs in Spain (APUNE)

APUNE - acronym of its name in Spanish - is the oldest association in Europe dedicated to serving the needs of American programs and students. It is a non-profit cultural association that seeks to deepen and promote international exchange between Spain and the United States. SSA is a partner (Institución Colaboradora) in APUNE. In 2009, SSA achieved certification through The Forum on Education Abroad’s Quality Improvement Program (QUIP). While that program has been suspended by The Forum, SSA still maintains its dedication to its Standards of Good Practice.

ISO: International Organization for Standardization

Spanish Studies Abroad has been certified according to the requirements of the standard ISO 9001: 2000 for the design and development of its Cross-Cultural Educational programs. ISO is the world’s largest developer of International Standards and is increasingly recognized as a leader of standardization for higher education internationally.

Partner Universities of SSA

SSA Education Abroad’s affiliated universities are all accredited according to their local requirements. These universities are often the content providers for our students’ courses. Our affiliated universities include Universidad de Sevilla, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Universidad de Alicante, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Elisava Barcelona School of Design and Engineering, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Universidad de la Habana, and Universidad del Sagrado Corazón. The latter is accredited by the USA’s Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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Boost your resume, flourish as a human being, and have the time of your life.

Discover our custom programs for high schools and high school study-abroad opportunities.

Before study abroad: learn why SSA is your family’s partner in secure, enriching study abroad experiences. See how we support your student’s growth every step of the way.

After study abroad: make the most of your study abroad experience: get career support, become an ambassador, request a transcript, and more.

Learn about SSA’s custom programs, book a site visit, or become an esteemed SSA partner to earn exclusive benefits and discounts.

We're Here to Help!

Jenna

INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS COORDINATOR; WEST/MIDWEST

The IRs are your go-to contacts for navigating the complex study abroad process. 

They aim to respond to all inquiries within one business day.

Don’t hesitate to drop a message. No question is too small!

We're Here to Help!

Nora

INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS COORDINATOR; SOUTHEAST

The IRs are your go-to contacts for navigating the complex study abroad process. 

They aim to respond to all inquiries within one business day.

Don’t hesitate to drop a message. No question is too small!

We're Here to Help!

amanda

INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS COORDINATOR; NORTHEAST

The IRs are your go-to contacts for navigating the complex study abroad process. 

They aim to respond to all inquiries within one business day.

Don’t hesitate to drop a message. No question is too small!

We're Here to Help!

susanhyman

Susan Hyman

Custom Programs Director

Susan is your go-to contact for navigating the complex process of customized programs. 

She aims to respond to all inquiries within one business day.

Don’t hesitate to drop a message. No question is too small!

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