If you're looking for a study abroad experience that blends academic rigor with genuine cultural immersion, the semester program at Universidad de Deusto in Bilbao, Spain offers exactly that. Hosted by Spain's first private university—founded in 1886 and nestled along the Nervión River with views of the surrounding mountains and steps from the iconic Guggenheim Museum—this program invites you to earn transferable credits while fully engaging with one of Europe's most distinctive and dynamic cities. Open to all language levels, the program is available for a fall semester, spring semester, or a full academic year.

You'll choose between two academic tracks depending on your goals. The Liberal Arts Track includes courses taught in English and Spanish covering topics such as Spanish language and culture, psychology, and global studies. The STEM & Business Track builds on this foundation with additional options in business, technology, and engineering—including hands-on lab work in robotics, electronics, and computer science using tools like LabVIEW. You'll enroll in a minimum of 24 ECTS credits (typically 4–5 courses), and you can mix courses with international classmates and courses alongside local Deusto students. Students with advanced Spanish proficiency may also pursue internship courses for credit through UD's catalog, subject to a 3.0 GPA requirement and an additional fee.

From the moment you arrive, WorldStrides ensures you're supported every step of the way. You'll be greeted at the airport, welcomed at an in-depth orientation covering academic culture, city navigation, and local life, and backed by an on-site resident director and 24/7 emergency assistance throughout your stay. Mental health support, international insurance, and career resources are all included in your program fee, so you can focus on making the most of your time abroad.

Bilbao itself is a remarkable destination—a compact, walkable city where Basque identity, mountain scenery, and world-class contemporary design converge. Your program includes curated excursions such as a visit to the Guggenheim Museum, a trip to the historic town of Gernika and the Peace Museum, a coastal trek to the dramatic islet of Gaztelugatxe, an overnight stay in Biarritz and San Sebastián, and a winery visit in La Rioja's Laguardia. These experiences are intentionally designed to connect your classroom learning with real-world cultural context.

Housing options include homestay (with three meals a day and laundry service), off-campus student residences shared with local and international students, or independent housing if you prefer to arrange your own accommodation. Deusto also offers a Conversation Exchange Program that pairs you with a local student for weekly language and cultural exchange—a wonderful way to build friendships and practice your Spanish outside the classroom. Whether you're a STEM student, a language learner, or a liberal arts explorer, this program gives you the tools, support, and experiences to make your semester in Bilbao truly transformative.