Overview
The Universidad Politécnica de Valencia (UPV) offers students an excellent opportunity to enroll in courses alongside European Erasmus and local Spanish students. UPV is a dynamic and innovative public institution dedicated to research and investigation. It is ranked among the top universities in Spain and maintains a strong international presence and a large international student body. Although the university was founded in 1968-1969, some of its centers were created 100 years ago. The student population at UPV is over 36,000 and is dispersed between three campuses (Vera, Alcoy and Gandia).
Academics
Fields of study include Architecture, Building Management, Computer Science, Engineering Design, Civil Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Agricultural Engineering & Natural Environment, Business Administration & Management, Cartography & Surveying, and Fine Arts.
Most of the curriculum at UPV is taught in Spanish, although some courses are taught in Valenciano. More than 133
English courses were introduced during the 2009-2010 academic year. More information about these courses can be found at the English version of the International Exchange Programmes Office (OPII). https://www.opii.upv.es
The first semester (fall) begins mid-September and ends in late January; the second semester (spring) begins in mid-February and ends in late May. At the end of every term there is a three-week examination period.
Student Life
More information can be found here:
http://www.upv.es/organizacion/vida-universitaria/index-en.html
Housing
The International Exchange Programmes Office (OPII) provides some assistance with accommodation. Upon arrival, international students stay temporarily in youth hostels, residence halls, or local hotels until permanent housing is found. Permanent housing includes sharing a flat with other students, staying with a host family, or renting a bedroom in a private hall of residence.
Location
The city of Valencia is the capital of the Comunidad Valenciano and the province of Valencia, and is the third largest city in Spain with 1.5 million inhabitants. It is located in the central-east coast of the country on the Mediterranean Sea. Due to its unique characteristics and urban infrastructure, Valencia is one of the most attractive cities in Spain. Its mild temperate climate is pleasing throughout the whole year, with more than 300 sunny days on average, warm summers, and very mild winters.
Valencianos are outgoing, generous, and love street festivities. In fact, Valencia is home to numerous cultural activities. The basic ingredients of Valencian parties are said to be light, gunpowder, fireworks, parades, and music. Fallas is the main Valencian festival. It takes place once a year March 12-19.
