API (Academic Programs International): Havana - Universidad de la Habana

The capital and largest city of the island nation of Cuba, Havana has a long and storied past. The city was chartered by King Phillip II of Spain in 1592, and was recognized by royal decree in 1634 as the “Key to the New World.” Due to its historic role as a trading port, Havana often fell prey to attacks by pirates and buccaneers, leading to the construction of a series of forts that can still be visited today – the most famous of these being “El Morro Fortress.” The city expanded greatly during the 17th century, growing to be the third largest city in the Americas by the middle of the 18th century; indeed, it was larger than Boston and New York at the time! The 19th century saw the construction of the railroad (the fifth in the world) and of various cultural arenas (theaters, lyceum, etc.) that hosted influential exhibits and performances throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Today the city continues to promote the arts with numerous international arts and music festivals each year, including the Havana International Jazz Festival, the International Havana Ballet Festival, the Havana International Film Festival, and more!

Programs in Havana Includes:

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  Cuban and Caribbean Studies for Intermediate/Advanced Spanish Speakers: Students who study abroad in Cuba with API on the Cuban and Caribbean Studies Program will take a required Spanish language course throughout the term. This course uses the Cuban experience as a backdrop for language practice, discussion, and writing assignments. Students can choose their remaining courses from a selection of offerings in the Spanish Department for Non-Spanish Speakers with other international students or from integrated courses with Cuban students. Integrated classes may be taken in the Departments of Philosophy, History, Sociology, Literature, and Art History. Students may also choose to take a Cuban film seminar with international students through the Foundation for New Latin American Cinema.

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  Jan Term in Havana: API is excited to offer students a January term study abroad program in Cuba! Beginning through advanced-level students may elect to take a Spanish language course at the appropriate level. This course may consist of 60 hours of intensive language study and 15 hours of cultural topics over a three-week period for a total of five semester credits. Alternatively, students may choose to solely emphasize language study and take a total of 60 hours of Spanish language only, for a total of 4 semester credits.

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  Summer Spanish Language and Cuban Culture: Students who study abroad in Cuba with API during the summer Language and Culture Program can select one of the summer tracks based on their academic interest and Spanish language proficiency. Summer students combine intensive language study and cultural topics/activities. The Summer 1 session can accommodate beginning-level Spanish language students.