University Overview

---

One of the finest and largest private universities in Argentina, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina (UCA) is located in Puerto Madero, an architecturally-acclaimed US $2.5 billion urban renewal project in the old port of Buenos Aires, which includes move theatres, luxury restaurants, a Hilton hotel and the headquarters of many multinational corporations. Since its foundation in 1958, UCA has been a pioneer in many fields and attracted leading scholars in each academic discipline to its faculty. UCA also created the country’s first business administration department. Clearly identified with its Christian character and tradition, the University fosters academic excellence, personal growth and a passion for truth and justice.

The central campus is accessible by colectivo (bus) and subte (metro), and is a short walk from the city’s historical and financial districts, yet offers quiet surroundings. It is only a few blocks away from a 1,000-acre natural preserve.

Program Overview

---

All courses at UCA are taught in Spanish. Exchange students’ home universities must state, in written form, that the student’s Spanish language skills will enable him/her to undertake courses taught in Spanish without experiencing difficulty. Placement test in Spanish is administrated upon arrival. Students not reaching Advanced level are requested to combine Spanish Language Courses along with regular modules.

The University campus is fully equipped with: library, study areas, computer labs, cafeterias, chapels, Xeroxing centers, and an infirmary.

UCA also has a wide variety of extension activities that are offered by its schools and academic units, the student unions, and other organizations. These extracurricular activities constitute excellent opportunities for international students to: increase their knowledge of Argentina and its culture, achieve a better integration in the UCA community, and meet new people and friends. Some activities may require the payment of a reduced fee.

Location

---

Argentina is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world and offers great geographic variety. The capital, Buenos Aires, is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Americas and its character and look were molded by European immigration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With almost 12 million inhabitants in the greater metropolitan area, this vibrant city is among the most populated urban centers in the world. Buenos Aires has magnificent buildings, monuments and parks and although it is a big city, its transportation system makes it easy to move around. There is much to explore and enjoy outside the city as well. Buenos Aires gives home to more than 1 million students, approximately 70% of the whole higher education enrollment in the country. This population, together with the more than 20,000 international students it hosts every year, makes Buenos Aires a fine choice for a study abroad program.
 

Accommodation

---

UCA does not offer on-campus housing. The UCA International Office provides assistance locating a host family place.  Living with host nationals improve a student’s language skills, although students may choose to live in student residences or flats.

 

Grades and Credits

A full course load at la Universidad Católica de Argentina is 15 credits per semester and 30 credits for the academic year. If you take a full course load at UCA, you will receive a full course load at Washington College (16 credits/semester; 32 credits/academic year). If you take less than the full course load you will NOT receive a full course load at Washington College.