About STEM & Spanish Language at Universidad Politécnica de Valencia Program
If you're a STEM-focused student looking to combine rigorous academic coursework with an immersive international experience, this semester program at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (UPV) in Valencia, Spain is designed for you. Hosted at one of Spain's leading technological universities — ABET-accredited and consistently ranked among Europe's top institutions for science and innovation — you'll enroll in 4–5 courses per semester, earning 12–15 U.S. semester credits. Course offerings include engineering, mathematics (including Calculus III, Linear Algebra, and Dynamics), chemistry, biology, physics, material and energy balances, engineering thermodynamics, and more, all taught in English alongside international peers. You also have the option to take Spanish language courses at the elementary, intermediate, or advanced level to deepen your cultural engagement.
Valencia itself is a dynamic Mediterranean city that offers the perfect backdrop for your studies. Set along Spain's southeastern coast, it's a city that blends cutting-edge architecture — like the iconic City of Arts and Sciences — with historic old-town neighborhoods, sun-drenched beaches, and vibrant local culture. Whether you're cycling through the Turia Gardens, learning to make paella on a farm-to-fork excursion, or drifting through the Albufera lagoon, life outside the classroom is just as enriching as your coursework.
WorldStrides supports you from the moment you land: you'll be greeted at the airport, guided through an in-depth in-country orientation, and supported throughout your stay by a dedicated local team of English-speaking staff — including a Resident Director and Student Services coordinators. Your program fee covers tuition, housing, cultural activities and excursions, local team support, airport reception, orientation, international insurance, 24/7 emergency assistance, and mental health support resources.
Housing options include fully furnished apartments (typically housing 3–5 students), homestays with local families (with meals and laundry included), or independent housing if you prefer to arrange your own accommodations. All options are matched to your preferences through a housing questionnaire completed after acceptance.
For students of faith, the Study + Veritas option allows you to combine your academics with ministry service, faith-focused learning, and mentorship through Veritas Christian Study Abroad. You'll enroll in an additional 3-credit online course through California Baptist University and connect with a Veritas Mentor while serving local communities in Valencia. The program is available for a Fall Semester, Spring Semester, or full Academic Year, giving you the flexibility to choose an immersion that fits your timeline and academic goals. A minimum 2.5 GPA and age of at least 18 are required to participate.