This course is part of a Semester Programme
The Semester Course Programme has been designed for those students who wish spend a semester studying abroad. Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) offers students a range of classes to choose and you can take from 1 to 5 for a semester. Get more information »
Course Description
The fascinating story of Spain’s recent evolution from a poor, isolated dictatorship to a modern, dynamic democracy fully integrated within the European Union sets the context for this course. The economic and social development of Spain is analyzed from an urban perspective, illustrating the importance of the city in economic competitiveness and innovation within the EU.
Concepts from economy, sociology and politics are used to relate theory with case studies of numerous Spanish and European cities. An important part of the course involves the intercultural aspect of the EU as a global multicultural society; immigration and diversity as catalysts to urban creativity in the global city include some of the topics discussed. Numerous guest speakers and a field trip will also form part of the program.
- View the syllabus (45 hs. / 4.5 credits*)
Content
These are just a few of the topics addressed in this course. Please take a look at the instructor’s syllabus for a complete description of the course contents.
- Europe as a global urban region
- Urban economy and sociology
- Global cities and nodal regions: opportunities and challenges
- The role of cities in the EU: policies and programs
- Spain in the European context: overview of the Spanish society and economy
- Spain in Europe: from autarchy to full recognition
- EU policies and their impact on Spanish society
- Multiculturalism: the European vs. US approach
- Multiculturalism in Spain: national minorities and immigration
- The city as an incubator of a multicultural society
* Please see Diploma & Credits section to get more info.