welcome bienvenido ongi etorri benvenuto bem-vindo bienvenue
University of the Basque Country
www.relaciones-internacionales.ehu.es/p274-homeen/en/ www.ehu.es
CONTENTSCONTENTS
0. Welcome to the University______4 1. The Basque Country______5 2. The University of the Basque Country______6 2.1 Quick glance at the Figures______7 2.2 Campus sites______8 2.2.1 Campus of Araba______10 2.2.2 Campus of Biscay______12 2.2.3 Campus of Gipuzkoa______11 2.3. Studying at the University of the Basque Country______14 2.3.1 Undergraduate programmes______14 2.3.2 Subjects taught in English and French______18 2.3.3 Graduate programmes______18 2.3.4 Summer courses______18 2.4. Academic Information______19 2.4.1 Academic Calendar______19 2.4.2 Evaluation System______19 2.4.3 Grades______19 2.4.4 International programmes______20 3. PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS______21 3.1 Cost of living______21 3.2 Accommodation______21 3.3 Meals______23 3.4 Medical Facilities______23 3.5 Facilities for students with disabilities______24 3.6 Practical information for exchange students______25 3.6.1 Faculty contacts: (for academic issues)______25 3.6.2 Visiting Student Agenda ______27 3.6.3 Languages______28 3.6.4 Religion______28 3.6.5 Climate______28 3.6.6 Currency______28 3.6.7 Business hours______28 3.7 Insurance______28 3.8 Financial Support for students______29 3.8.1. Grants and Scholarships ______(undergraduate students and students studying official master degrees)______29 3.8.2. Grants and Scholarships for graduate students______29 3.8.3. Student loans______29 3.9 Student Affairs office______29 3.10 Language Courses______30 3.11 Study Facilities______31 3.12 Internships______33 3.13 Sports facilities______33 3.14 Outdoor and leisure activities______34 3.16 Student Associations______34
3 0. Welcome to the University
Dear Student,
The staff of the International Relations Office welcomes you to the University of the Basque Country, and looks forward to working with you throughout your program of study, teaching or research. Each year, the University of the Basque Country enjoys the presence of over 900 international students, international academic staff and researchers primarily from Europe, Canada, USA, Japan and Latin- American countries, a number that is growing at a steady rate.
This handbook was designed to help you in your relocation and adjustment to life in our community and at the University of the Basque Country. In this booklet, you will find general information about the Basque Country and the University of the Basque Country. An easy-to-follow “checklist” in the student’s agenda section will remind you of the steps or formalities required before you leave your country, upon your arrival and before you return home. It also contains academic information such as the grading system in our university and the academic calendar which will enable you to program your holiday periods. Finally, this handbook describes the three campuses in the University of the Basque Country named after the province in which they are located and it includes information on lodging, language courses, cultural and sport activities, events and other services at your disposal in each of the three campuses: the Campus of Araba, the Campus of Biscay and the Campus of Gipuzkoa.
We hope that you will find the contents of this handbook useful. We look forward to welcoming you to the campus and providing you with all the assistance you might need.
Miriam Peñalba Vice-Rector for International Relations
Vicerrectorado de proyección Internacional www.relaciones-internacionales.ehu.es
4 1. The Basque Country
The autonomous community of the Basque Country was the first autonomous community to be formed in Spain in 1979. Euskadi has an area of 7,261 square kilometres, 145 km from East to West and 71 Km from North to South. With a population of 2,200,000, the Basque Country is one of the smallest autonomous communities in Spain. Isolated by its mountainous terrain, the Basques maintained their linguistic and cultural uniqueness over the ages.
Capital of Biscay: Bilbao Population: 343.173 www.bilbao.net
Capital of Alava: Vitoria-Gasteiz Population: 223.702 www.vitoria-gasteiz.org
Capital of Gipuzkoa: Donostia- San Sebastián Population: 182.930 www.donostia.org
Nearest airport. Loiu (Bilbao): 10km. Foronda (Vitoria): 4km; Hondarribia Aeropuerto de San Sebastián: (San Sebastian): 10 km
Bilbao Donostia / San Sebastián BIZKAIA GIPUZKOA
Vitoria-Gasteiz ARABA
5 2. The University of the Basque Country
The University of the Basque Country is a public, integrating and open teaching and research institution that strives to provide society with a quality service in innovation and knowledge. Deeply rooted in Basque culture and history, it is a publicly run, plurilingual institution that guarantees a high quality academic offer.
The University of the Basque Country is the university of a bilingual society. Its language has identified the Basque Country throughout its history: Euskara, the only pre-indo-European language still alive in Europe. While teaching at the university is essentially performed in Spanish at undergraduate level, most of the Faculties and Schools offer, in addition, substantial teaching in Basque. Undergraduate subjects, and some full graduate programmes are also available in English or French.
With a total of 31 Schools and Faculties distributed in three campuses, the University of the Basque Country offers a wide range of courses in all areas of knowledge: from engineering and humanities to health sciences, economics, arts or architecture.
6 2.1 Quick glance at the Figures Year of establishment: 1980 No. of campuses: 3 Campus of Alava: 7 faculties and schools in Vitoria-Gasteiz Campus of Biscay: 13 faculties and schools in Leioa, Bilbao, Baracaldo and Portugalete Campus of Gipuzkoa: 11 faculties and schools in Donostia-San Sebastián and Eibar
No. of buildings: 60 Total No. of faculties and schools: 31 No. of Departments: 108 Halls of Residence: 32 University accommodation (number of places): 3,144
No. of undergraduate degrees: 106 No. of master courses: 74 No. of PhD programmes: 62 (32 of which have been granted a quality award by the Spanish Ministry of Education)
No. of academic staff: 5,124 No. of Doctors: 2,842 No. of Professors: 519
No. of undergraduate students: 42,055 Enrolment by language: Basque 36.5%; Spanish 66.4% Students enrolled in graduate programmes: 2,403
Foreign students: 1,391 International universities with which agreements are held: 445
R&D&I actions: 2,568 Practical training placements in companies: 3,390
7 2.2 Campus sites 2.2.1 The Campus of Araba The Campus of Araba or Álava comprises 7 faculties and schools, all of them located in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz.
The city: Vitoria-Gasteiz Founded in 1181 by the King of Navarre, Sancho the Wise, Vitoria has a long history which can still be traced through its streets, museums, palaces, fortress ruins, monuments and archaeological sites. The city centre retains its Gothic style and is crowned by the towers of its four main churches built in the 14th and 15th centuries. Vitoria is today a growing city with a population of over 227,000. Vitoria claims to being the city with the largest number of square metres of parkland per inhabitant in Europe. The friendly nature of the people of Vitoria makes staying in this beautiful and habitable city even more enjoyable. The region, known as Álava, contains many archaeological sites and other important cultural monuments. Also of interest is the wide range of excursions around a region rich in forests and ecological reserves. Possible outdoor activities include trekking, mountain biking, water sports or paragliding. Numerous sports clubs, including a golf club, will provide information and help to enthusiasts.
Travel Information By air: - Vitoria airport (Foronda) is located 9 km. (5 miles) from Vitoria-Gasteiz. The taxi fare to the city centre is approximately 15 Euros. - Bilbao airport (Loiu): Shuttles run every 30 minutes from the airport to Bilbao city centre and to the bus terminal TERMIBUS. Buses run daily from TERMIBUS to Vitoria-Gasteiz. Check timetables at www. autobuseslaunion.com. Last bus departs at 10 pm on weekdays, earlier at weekends! - Landing at Santander-Parayas airport: Buses run to Vitoria-Gasteiz on a daily basis (2h30min ride, approximate fare 10 euros). Check timetables at www.alsa.es. For further detalis: Links Tourist information: http://www.euskadi.net/turismo http://www.alavaturismo.com/es/index.php Airport: http://www.aena.es. Vitoria City: http://www.vitoria-gasteiz.org/turismo
8 Campus of A r aba
1 Campus of Araba 2 Faculty of Medicine: Teaching Unit 3 University College of Nursing (affiliated centre) 4 F.C.A.F.D. (Faculty of Sciencies of Physical Activity and Sports) 3 1 University College of Teacher Training 2 2 Faculty of Pharmacy 3 Faculty of Philology, Geography and History 4 University College of Social Work 5 Services Building 6 The office of the Vice-Rector for International Relations Help Centre for visiting students Office of language courses for visiting students (Secretaría de los cursos de lenguas para extranjeros) 7 University College of Technical Industrial Engineering and Technical Topographical Engineering 8 Library and teaching rooms “Las Nieves” 9 University College of Business Studies 10 Hall of Residence “Tomás Alfaro Fournier”
3 3 2 1 4 5 6 1
7
8
9 10 4 uristikoa T OOMS RU oa CHING R Informazio Informazio LIFELON LEARNING TEA A ZABAL BU A Aparkalekua Bilbao Metr ORI rística - Tu
2.2.2 Campus of Biscay SAN SEBASTIAN VIT A8 - ENTRAD Museoa
The Campus of Biscay comprises 13 faculties or schools, 5 of which are located in Bilbao, 6 in the main Bilbao - ARANA camiento - Campus of Leioa which is 17 km. from Bilbao, 1 in Baracaldo and 1 in Portugalete. ro Met Apar Información Museo - A SABINO
The City: Bilbao O
The capital of Biscay, Bilbao, lies along the mouth of the Nervión River (la Ria de Bilbao), 11 km. A8 - ENTRAD inland from the Bay of Biscay. It is the largest city in the Basque Country and the financial capital of O) USINESS STUDIES the region. The municipality of Bilbao has approximately 370,000 inhabitants, but the population of UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF B CALD
the metropolitan area amounts to 1,000,000. The city and the area along the river have undergone a O revitalisation plan that included the construction of the Guggenheim Museum, an underground transport
system, a tramway and several environmental and urban regeneration projects. These changes have UTICAL SCHOOL OF BILBA BARA TECHNICAL SCHOOL UTICAL STUDIES
had a great impact on the city and have been referred to as the Guggenheim effect. L BILBA HIGHER OF NA (FORMER NA
Travel Information TECHNICA By air: The airport of Bilbao (Loiu) is approximately 10 km. from the city of Bilbao. There is a bus service TUGALETE connecting the airport with the city every half hour (6.15 to 23.15). The last stop is at the Bus terminal A TECHNICAL in Bilbao (TERMIBUS) where you can walk or take metro to your destination. POR ARANA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF MINING ENGINEERING UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF By train: The main station is Abando, and it connects with several international train routes. INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING A8 - ENTRAD SABINO Links: Tourist information: http://www.euskadi.net/turismo Airport: http://www.aena.es. Bilbao City: http://www.bilbao.net/bilbaoturismo/ TY OF ENERGINEERING CUL FA eaching Unit. T w: e. ed Centr TRAINING . e. CHER vices and Faculty of La ea. eas Building (Hotel Management PTC). Ar TEA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF A r ysics Unit. ts Centr ersity College of Labour Relations Studies and est of Life of est vices Ser Lecturing Building I. Univ Lecturing Building II. Student Ser Spor Social Bioph SRSCand UPV/EHU Shar r Fo USINESS TY OF ECONOMICS CUL FA AND B HALL OF RESIDENCE “MIGUEL DE UNAMUNO” AD ) RO y y UNIVERSID ogrammes (I E echnolog T ts Ar TUGALET e for visiting students POR ersity College of Nursing A LEIO GETXO Security point Faculty of Medicine and Dentistr Univ Faculty of Science and Faculty of Fine Office for international pr Aula Magna Help Centr Office for cooperation Faculty of Social and Communications Sciences ANDER SANT
10 HIGHER TECHNICAL SCHOOL OF NAUTICAL STUDIES HALL OF RESIDENCE (FORMER NAUTICAL SCHOOL OF BILBAO) “MIGUEL DE UNAMUNO”
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF TEACHER TRAINING Campus of BISCAY PORTUGALETE
FACULTY OF ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS
LIFELON LEARNING TEACHING ROOMS UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF BUSINESS STUDIES
PORTUGALETE
UNIVERSIDAD SANTANDER BILBAO
GETXO LEIOA FACULTY OF ENERGINEERING
Metro Bilbao - Bilbao Metroa Aparcamiento - Aparkalekua Información Turística - Informazio Turistikoa
Security point UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF TECHNICAL Museo - Museoa INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING Faculty of Medicine and Dentistr y University College of Nursing Faculty of Science and Technology Faculty of Fine Arts Office for international programmes (IRO) A8 - ENTRADA Aula Magna SABINO ARANA Help Centre for visiting students Office for cooperation Faculty of Social and Communications Sciences A8 - ENTRADA ZABALBURU
SAN SEBASTIAN VITORIA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF TECHNICAL A8 - ENTRADA SABINO ARANA MINING ENGINEERING
Services Area. Lecturing Building I. University College of Labour Relations Studies and Lecturing Building II. Student Services and Faculty of Law: Teaching Unit. Sports Centre. BARACALDO Social Areas Building (Hotel Management PTC). Biophysics Unit. SRSCand UPV/EHU Shared Centre. Forest of Life. 2.2.3 Campus of Gipuzkoa The Gipuzkoa Campus comprises 11 faculties or schools, 10 of which are located in Donostia-San Sebastian. Another school is in Eibar (60 km. from Donostia-San Sebastián)
The City: Donostia San Sebastián Donostia-San Sebastián is the capital of the province of Gipuzkoa. It is located 20 km. from the French border town of Hendaye. Donostia- San Sebastian is considered a tourist centre due to its location on the shore of the Cantabrian Sea. The city has 3 beaches: La Concha, Ondarreta and La Zurriola. The 180,000 inhabitants of this charming and delightful small city enjoy a mild coastal climate.
Travel information - By plane: Bilbao airport (Loiu) is approximately 10 km. from the city of Bilbao. Direct buses run every day from Loiu airport to Donostia-San Sebastian bus terminal (1h15min ride, approximately 15 euros). Check timetables at www.pesa.net.
Other nearby airports are: - San Sebastian airport (Fuenterrabía-Hondarribia): 30 minutes away. Buses operate from the airport to San Sebastian city centre (Plaza Gipuzkoa) for 2 euros approximately. Check timetables at www. interbus.com.es. - Biarritz airport (in France): 1h20min away. No public transport available www.biarritz.aeroport.fr - Noain airport (in Pamplona): 1 hour away. No direct transport available to San Sebastian. http://www. aena.es
- Arriving by train: Arriving by train is another option. The French high speed train TGV arrives at Hendaye station. Off the building to the right, take the EUSKOTREN train network to San Sebastian (arriving at EUSKOTREN terminal, Amara district). 40min ride, 3 euros approximately. Last train around 10pm. Check timetables at www.euskotren.es
Links Tourist information: http://www.euskadi.net/turismo San Sebastian-Donostia City: http://www.sansebastianturismo.com http://www.donostia.org
12 11
10 Campus of 9 GIPUZKOA
4 6 1 University College of Teacher Training 2 Higher Technical School of Architecture 3 University College of Business Studies 5 4 Faculty of Philosophy and Education Science 8 5 Faculty of Psychology 6 Faculty of Chemical Sciencies 7 Faculty of Computer Engineering 1 8 Faculty of Law 9 University College of Technical Industrial Engineering 1 University Campus 10 Office for international programmes (IRO) 7 Help Centre for visiting students 2 University College of Technical 2 Industrial Engineering (Amara) 1 3 University College of Nursing and Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry: Teaching Unit
4 Lifelong Learning Teaching Rooms
5 Miramar Palace (Summer Courses) 6 Renfe Railway Station
7 Bus Station 8 Eusko Tren Railway Station 9 Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa 10 Town hall 11 Kursaal 3 1
1 University College of Technical Industrial Engineering 2 2 Oñati International Institute for the Sociology of Law (affiliated centre) 2.3. Studying at the University of the Basque Country 2.3.1 Undergraduate studies
CAMPUS OF ALAVA
FACULTY OF PHARMACY BSc in Environmental Sciences www.farmazia.ehu.es/p244-home/es BSc in Food Science and Technology BSc in Pharmacy BSc in Human Nutrition and Diet
FACULTY OF ARTS BA in Philology (Spanish, French, German and Classical www.letrak.ehu.es/p245-home/es Studies) BA in English Studies BA in Basque Studies BSc in Geography and Planning BA in History BA in the History of Art BSc in Translation and Interpreting
FACULTY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND BSc in Physical Education and Sports Sciences SPORT SCIENCE www.jarduera-fisikoa-kirola.ehu.es/p241-home/es
BUSINESS SCHOOL OF VITORIA-GASTEIZ BA in Business Administration and Management www.empresariales-vitoria.ehu.es/p227-home/es
SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK BA in Social Work www.gizarte-langintza.ehu.es/p260-home/es
TEACHER TRAINING SCHOOL OF VITORIA- BA in Nursery Education GASTEIZ BA in Primary Education www.irakasleen-ue-gasteiz.ehu.es/p252-home/es
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING OF VITORIA- BSc in Computer Management and Information Systems GASTEIZ Engineering www.ingeniaritza-gasteiz.ehu.es/p232-home/es BSc in Electrical Engineering BSc in Industrial Electronic Engineering and Automatics BSc in Mechanical Engineering BSc in Industrial Chemical Engineering BSc in Topography and Geomatics Engineering
TEACHING UNIT OF THE FACULTY OF BSc in Medicine MEDICINE AND DENTISTRY AT VITORIA- GASTEIZ www.araba.ehu.es
NURSING SCHOOL OF VITORIA-GASTEIZ BSc in Nursing (CENTRE AFFILIATED) The University of the Basque Country
14 CAMPUS OF BISCAY
FACULTY OF FINE ARTS BA in Fine Arts www.bellasartes.ehu.es/p239-home/es
FACULTY OF MEDICINE AND DENTISTRY BSc in Medicine www.medikuntza-odontologia.ehu.es/p247-home/es BSc in Dentistry
FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BSc in Chemical Engineering www.zientzia-teknologia.ehu.es/p240-home/es BSc in Electronics Engineering BSc in Biology BSc in Biotechnology BSc in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology BSc in Physics BSc in Geology BSc in Mathematics BSc in Chemistry
FACULTY OF SOCIAL AND COMMUNICATION BA in Political Science and Public Management SCIENCES BA in Audiovisual Communication www.gizarte-komunikazio-zientziak.ehu.es/p238-home/es BA in Journalism BA in Advertising and Public Relations BA in Sociology
SCHOOL OF LABOUR RELATIONS STUDIES BA in Labour Relations and Human Resources www.lan-harremanak.ehu.es/p231-home/es
NURSING SCHOOL OF LEIOA BSc in Nursing www.enfermeria-leioa.ehu.es/p225-home/es
FACULTY OF LAW, BIZKAIA SECTION BA in Law www.zuzenbide.ehu.es/p243-home/es
FACULTY OF ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS BA in Business Administration and Management STUDIES BA in Economics www.ekonomia-enpresa-zientziak.ehu.es/p242-home/es BA in Finance and Insurance BA in Marketing Management and Marketing Research BA in Taxation and Public Administration
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING OF BILBAO BSc in Environmental Engineering www.ingeniaritza-bilbao.ehu.es/p224-home/es BSc in Organization Engineering BSc in Industrial Technology Engineering BSc in Technical Telecommunications Engineering Master in Industrial Engineering1* Master in Telecommunications Engineering2*
15 BUSINESS SCHOOL BA in Business and Trade Management www.enpresa-bilbao.ehu.es/p228-home/es
SCHOOL OF TECHNICAL INDUSTRIAL BSc in Electrical Engineering ENGINEERING OF BILBAO BSc in Industrial Electronic Engineering and www.industria-ingeniaritza-tekniko-bilbao.ehu.es/p229- Automatics home/es BSc in Computer Management and Information Systems Engineering BSc in Mechanical Engineering BSc in Industrial Chemical Engineering
TEACHER TRAINING SCHOOL OF BILBAO BA in Social Education www.irakasleen-ue-bilbao.ehu.es/p230-home/es BA in Nursery Education BA in Primary Education
SCHOOL OF TECHNICAL MINING AND PUBLIC BSc in Mining and Energy Engineering WORKS ENGINEERING BSc in Civil Engineering www.meatze-herri-lan-ingeniaritza.ehu.es/p221-home/es
HIGHER TECHNICAL SCHOOL OF NAUTICAL BSc in Nautical Engineering and Maritime Transport STUDIES BSc in Maritime Engineering www.nautika-itsasontzi-makineria.ehu.es/p218-home/es
Campus of Gipuzkoa
FACULTIES AND SCHOOLS IN DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIÁN / IBAETA
FACULTY OF CHEMICAL SCIENCES BSc in Chemistry www.kimika-zientziak.ehu.es/p250-home/es
FACULTY OF COMPUTER ENGINEERING BSc in Computer Management and Information www.informatika.ehu.es/p248-home/es Systems Engineering BSc in Computer Engineering Master in Computer Engineering
FACULTY OF LAW OF DONOSTIA-SAN BA in Law SEBASTIÁN BA in Criminology www.zuzenbide.ehu.es/p243-home/es
16 FACULTY OF PHILOSOPHY AND EDUCATION BA in Social Education SCIENCE BA in Philosophy www.filosofia-hezkuntza-zientziak.ehu.es/p246-home/es BA in Pedagogy BA in Social Anthropology
FACULTY OF PSYCHOLOGY BA in Psychology www.psikologia.ehu.es/p249-home/es
HIGHER TECHNICAL SCHOOL OF BSc in Architecture ARCHITECTURE www.arkitektura.ehu.es/p203-home/es
BUSINESS SCHOOL OF BSc in Business Administration and Management DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIÁN www.enpresa-donostia.ehu.es/p256-home/es
TEACHER TRAINING SCHOOL OF BA in Nursery Education DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIÁN BA in Primary Education www.irakasleen-ue-donostia.ehu.es/p222-home/es
POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL OF BSc in Civil Engineering DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIÁN BSc in Electrical Engineering www.politeknikoa.ehu.es/p233-home/es BSc in Construction Engineering BSc in Industrial Electronics and Automatics Engineering BSc in Mechanical Engineering BSc in Industrial Chemical Engineering
NURSING SCHOOL OF DONOSTIA-SAN BSc in Nursing SEBASTIAN www.enfermeria-donostia.ehu.es/p226-home/es
TEACHING UNIT OF THE DONOSTIA-SAN BSc in Medicine SEBASTIÁN FACULTY OF MEDICINE AND DENTISTRY AT DONOSTIA-SAN SEBASTIÁN* www.donostiako-medikuntza-fakultateko-irakasgunea. ehu.es/p261-home/es/
*Master will commence as the first promotion of the new syllabus terminates the BSc.
17 2.3.2 Subjects taught in English and/or French A number of subjects in undergraduate programmes is taught in English and/or French. You can access the exact list of plurilingual subjects via the following link: www.euskara-errektoreordetza.ehu.es/p267-content/es/contenidos/informacion/banner_plan_ plurilinguismo/es_indice/portada_200708.html
2.3.3 Graduate programmes The University of the Basque Country is a teaching and research institution offering over 80 graduate courses (master degrees and doctoral studies) in all areas of knowledge. We offer a number of international joint masters, organised together with different European universities. As a reflection of internationalisation, some of these graduate programmes are taught in English. We also have a network of doctoral courses connected to Latin American universities. Check our offer in the following link: http://www.ikasketak.ehu.es/p266-home/es/
2.3.4 Summer courses Besides regular courses offered by the University, students can also obtain credits by attending certain Summer Courses. Lecturers in charge of these courses are normally prestigious international professionals with an established reputation in their fields. Access to such courses requires the payment of a fee. Information and application forms can be obtained from the Summer Courses Offices. Addresses
Cursos de Derecho Internacional y Relaciones Internacionales de Vitoria-Gasteiz http://www.ehu.es/cursosderechointernacionalvitoria/
Cursos de Verano Bilbao Arte eta Kultura http://www.bak.ehu.es
XXVIII Cursos de Verano de Donostia-San Sebastian http://www.sc.ehu.es/scrwwwsu/index.htm
18 2.4 Academic Information
2.4.1 Academic Calendar The academic year is divided into two semesters. The first semester runs from September to the second week of January, with an exam period from the third week of January to beginning of February. The second semester runs from mid February till June, with an exams period from mid June to the first week of July. Christmas holidays are about 2 weeks long (from the 21st December to the 6th of January approx.) and Easter holidays are approximately 10 days long (they vary each year between the end of March and mid-April.) Each faculty/school may have slight variations to this calendar, check with your faculty/school for more detailed information, www.ehu.es. Click ‘centros’ on the section ‘estructura de la UPV/EHU’, left of the page.
2.4.2 Evaluation System Written examinations, based on factual knowledge, are the general procedure for assessment. Some subjects, however, may require a practical exam and/or laboratory/field report.
2.4.3 Grades The grading system in Spain is numerical (from 0 to 10) and literal. The passing grade is 5.
Literal Grades Numerical grades Comments
Matrícula de Honor Special Honor mention that can be given to students with at least a 9. No more that 5% of the student body can have one
Sobresaliente (SB) 9 to 10 Given to outstanding students who fulfil course requirements completely
Notable (NT) 7 to 8.9 Given to students who have fulfilled course requirements in a satisfactory manner
Aprobado (AP) 5 to 6.9 Given to students who have fulfilled minimum course requirements
Suspenso (SS) 0 to 4.9 Given to students who have failed exams. No credits awarded.
No Presentado Not taken----- Given to students who fail to take the exam. No credits awarded.
19 ECTS Credits The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is used by all European higher education institutions. 60 ECTS credits account for a full academic year workload and each ECTS credits accounts for 25 hours of workload. The ECTS grading system is used to convert grades from one system to another. More information on the ECTS system http://ec.europa.eu/education/lifelong-learning-policy/doc/ects/key_en.pdf
2.4.4 International programmes Erasmus Studies The University of the Basque Country has over 400 Erasmus agreements with European universities.
Erasmus Study Placements: The University of the Basque Country offers Erasmus study placements over Europe.
Bilateral Exchange agreements (Latin America and Other Countries) The University of the Basque Country has over 45 bilateral exchange agreements with Latin American countries, the Philippines, USA, Canada, New Zealand and Russia.
University Internships in Development Cooperation programme. Through this programme, students are able to do their mandatory internship period or their final graduation assignment in the context of a Development Cooperation Project.
Other International programmes Latin American Doctorate Network http://www.ikasketak.ehu.es/p266-shdolact/es/contenidos/informacion/doctorados_latinoamerica/ es_infor/presentacion.html
20 3. Practical information for students
3.1 Cost of living The cost of living in any of the cities (Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Donostia-San Sebastian) of the Basque Country is similar to other cities in Spain an Europe such as Madrid or Barcelona. Monthly expenses range from 600€ to 700€ depending mostly on the type of lodging you choose.
Cost of Living
Approximate expenses per accommodation 250-350 euros month (in € ) Food 250-300 euros
public transport 35 euros
Miscellaneous 100 euros
total per month 635- 785 euros
3.2 Accommodation The options for lodging include: - Shared private flats (approx. prices are between 250 and 350 € per person/per month). - Lodging with a flat owner (approx. price from 550-600 € for full board, from 335 to 370 € for half board and from 250 to 350 € for room with kitchen access). - Halls of Residence. Students must make their own arrangements directly with the Halls, since each one has different application procedures, services and availability. The prices run from 275 to 700€ approx. depending on the residence and the type of room.
UNIVERSITY HALLS OF RESIDENCE
ÁLAVA
Residencia Universitaria Tomás Alfaro Fournier Paseo de la Zumaquera nº 21 A E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz Tel.: +34 902 444 447 Fax: +34 932 183250 E-mail: [email protected] http://www.resa.es
21 BIZKAIA
“Colegio Mayor Miguel de Unamuno” Lehendakari Agirre, 140 E-48015 Bilbao. Tel.: +34 94 447 51 08 Fax:+ 34 94 476 41 47 e-mail: [email protected] http://www.ehu.es/unamuno
“Residencia Blas de Otero” Calle de las Cortes, 38 (Esquina Arnótegui) Bilbao Tel.: +34 902 444 447 (reservations) Fax: + 34 932 183 250 http://www.resa.es e-mail: [email protected]
GIPUZKOA
Residencia Universitaria “Manuel Agud Querol” Campus Ibaeta 20160 Donostia-San Sebastián Tel.: +34 902444447
e-mail: [email protected] http://www.resa.e
Private Halls of residences: The list of private halls of residence for each campus is updated every year. The information is published in our website. The Help Centre for visiting students can help you arrange your accommodation and answer all your questions regarding lodging both prior to your arrival and once you are here.
HELP CENTRE FOR VISITING STUDENTS http://www.relaciones-internacionales.ehu.es/p274-homeen/en/
ÁLAVA
Pabellón Universitario Los Apraiz, 1, 01006 Vitoria Tel.: +34 945 014333
e-mail: [email protected]
BIZKAIA
Leioa: Bilbao: Edificio de la Biblioteca, 2ª planta Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Oficina 3 A 9, Barrio Sarriena s/n., 48940 Leioa Oficina P2A2, Alameda de Urquijo s/n, 48013 Bilbao Tel.: +34 946 01 5868 Tel: +34 946 01 7365 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
22 GIPUZKOA
Campus of Gipuzkoa: Edificio Ignacio Mª Barriola, entreplanta Plaza Elhuyar 1, 20018 San Sebastián Tel.: +34 943 01 8164 e-mail: [email protected]
3.3 Meals Food is an important part of the culture of the Basque Country and cooking is a usual topic of conversation and a good excuse for meeting and celebrating. Breakfast and dinner are normally lighter meals, while lunch or the meal served in the middle of the day is the most important. Fish is the cornerstone of Basque Cuisine, since the Basques have fished for centuries all over the world. Meal times are normally as follows: breakfast from 8:00 to 10:00, lunch from 13:30 to 15:30 and dinner from 21:00 to 22:00. At our University you will find cafeterias and canteens in all campuses with low-priced quality meals for students.
3.4 Medical Facilities Before coming to our University you should get in touch with your National Health Service in order to know the required documentation to be able to use our National Health System. As a general rule, Students from the EU and from countries within the European Economic Space who have the right to public health care in their home countries should bring their European health card with them to Spain. This way, they will receive the same level of health care that Spanish nationals are entitled to. Non-EU students on an exchange or international programme will need to have their own international medical insurance covering accidents; medical expenses and repatriation in case of decease. Spanish exchange students can access health care with their health card. Check the list of centres and their contact information in the basque health system webpage: http://www.osanet.euskadi.net/r85-20411/es/contenidos/informacion/lista_centros_osk/es_cent_osk/ centros_osk_indice_c.html
Emergencies:
ÁLAVA
On campus emergencies Emergencies in the city
Servicio de Prevención (Vicerrectorado, Coordinación de Emergencias (SOS DEIAK): 112 2nd floor) Cruz Roja: 945 13 26 30 Hospital de Txagorritxu: 945 00 70 00 Seriuos accidents: Hospital de Santiago Apóstol: 945 00 76 00 Call 112 first and then 943-014309 or 943-014226
Minor accidents: Call 943-014309 or 943-014226
23 BIZKAIA
On campus emergencies Emergencies in the city
Servicio de Prevención Coordinación de emergencias: SOS Deiak 112 Aulario 2, Leioa, Cruz Roja: Hospital 94 443 47 92 Urgencias 94 422 22 22 Osakidetza Basurto 94 400 60 00 Cruces 94 600 60 00 Galdakao 94 400 70 00
GIPUZKOA
On campus emergencies Emergencies in the city Servicio de Prevención Coordinadora de Emergencias: SOS Deiak 112 Edificio Ignacio Mª Barriola Hospital Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu: 943 46 11 11
Urgencias: C/Bengoetxea, 4, Tlfno: 943 44 06 33
Additional services provided at the University are the dental clinic (www.klinika-odontologikoa.ehu.es/ p212-home/es) in the Bizkaia Campus and the psychological assistance unit (http://www.ikasleak.ehu. es/p202-shaplihm/es/), located in the Gipuzkoa Campus. These units are open during the school year.
3.5 Facilities for students with disabilities The University of the Basque Country is an integrating institution that guarantees equal opportunities for all students through our Disability Support Service.
The purpose of this Service is to guarantee equal opportunities, providing the student body access to studies and services and supporting their full participation in the university. This service belongs to the University of the Basque Country Vice- Rectorate for students. Contact: http://www.ikasleak.ehu.es/p202-shdischm/es/
Pabellones de la Facultad de Derecho Pº Manuel Lardizabal, 2 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián T.: +34 943 01 81 37 Fax: +34 943 01 51 82 E-mail: [email protected]
24 3.6. Practical information for exchange students 3.6.1 Faculty contacts: (for academic issues)
ÁLAVA
FACULTY OR SCHOOL E-MAIL
Vitoria School of Engineering [email protected] Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Science [email protected] Faculty of Pharmacy [email protected] Faculty of Arts [email protected] Business School [email protected] School of Social Work [email protected] Teacher Training School [email protected]
BIZKAIA
FACULTY OR SCHOOL E-MAIL
In Bilbao Faculty of Economics and Business Studies [email protected] Faculty of Engineering [email protected] Business School [email protected] Teacher Training School [email protected]
In Leioa Faculty of Fine Arts [email protected] Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry [email protected] School of Labour Relations Studies [email protected] Nursing School [email protected] Faculty of Social and Communication Sciences [email protected] Faculty of Science and Technology [email protected] Industrial Engineering Technical School [email protected]
In Portugalete Higher Technical School of Nautical Studies (Nautical School of Bilbao) [email protected]
In Barakaldo Mining Engineering Technical School [email protected] Faculty of Law (Bizkaia Section) [email protected]
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FACULTY OR SCHOOL E-MAIL
Donostia Polytechnic School [email protected] Faculty of Chemical Sciences [email protected] Faculty of Computer Engineering [email protected] Faculty of Law [email protected] Faculty of Philosophy and Education Science [email protected] Faculty of Psychology [email protected] Higher Technical School of Architecture [email protected] Business School [email protected] Nursing School [email protected] Teacher Training School [email protected] Industrial Engineering Technical School (Eibar) [email protected]
26 3.6.2 Visiting Student Agenda
Visiting Student Agenda
Before leaving the home University If you have been selected as an exchange student in our mobility programmes you should:
• Check the following with your coordinator or contact person at the Unibersity of the Basque Country and/or through the website http://www.relaciones-internacionales.ehu.es • list of required documents (NOTE that each programme is different, so please follow carefully the instructions for your programme) • academic offer for your field of studies • arrival and enrolment dates
Remember that you must be registered in your home institution in order to participate in exchange programmes
Upon your arrival at The University of the Basque Country • Go directly to the Help Centre for Visiting Students/ Servicio de Orientación Universitaria to get information on lodging.
• Contact the Exchange Programme Coordinator at your faculty or school. The coordinator list is available in our website and in this guide (see Faculty contacts). The coordinator will sign your learning agreement.
• Register at the faculty or school secretariat International students will need: Copy of the learning agreement or similar document where the international coordinator at your school or faculty in the Unibersity of the Basque Country approves the list of courses you will be enrolled in. Copy of passport or identity card 1 photo Photocopy of your registration at your home university Photocopy of your European Health Card and/or private insurance
• Attend available orientation or reception meetings
Before returning home • Inform your Coordinator of your departure date • Obtain your Transcript of Records (unless it is sent directly to your home coordinator) • Remember to give notice to end your lease. Return your key • Return all library books you have borrowed
27 3.6.3 Languages The Basque Country has two official languages: Basque (Euskara) and Spanish (español/castellano). All citizens of the autonomous community speak Spanish. Euskara, the minority language, is spoken by a higher percentage of speakers in Gipuzkoa than in Bizkaia, and it is spoken by the smallest number of people in the province of Araba. Signs on motorways, airports, government offices and other official places are given in both languages.
3.6.4 Religion Traditionally, Spain is a Catholic country and therefore Catholicism is the predominant religion. There is, however, freedom of worship since the Constitution of 1978 and there are temples of other religions in the capital cities.
3.6.5 Climate The climate is mild and humid on the coast around Bilbao and Donostia-San Sebastián, and continental inland around Vitoria-Gasteiz, where it tends to be colder. Average temperature on the coast is approx. 10ºC in winter and 22ºC in summer. In Alava, temperatures may drop to 3º-5ºC in winter and reach 22º-25ºC in summer.
3.6.6 Currency The currency used in Spain is the EURO.
3.6.7 Business hours Small and traditional shops and offices open normally from 9:00/10:00 to 13:30 and from 16:00 to 19:30, including Saturdays. Larger shops normally have more extended business hours and are open from 10:00 to 20:00/21:00. Official institutions and banks however, are only open to the public in the mornings from 9:00to 13:00/14:00. Some open also from 15:00 to 17:00 on weekdays.
3.7 Insurance Visiting Students
Besides the possession of the European Health Card (EHC) students are strongly recommended to have a private Insurance covering eventualities in connection with travelling, stolen goods or third party liability.
Students from countries outside the EU must absolutely have medical insurance covering accidents; medical expenses and repatriation. If you are a student coming from a non-EU country please contact your national health service and the Spanish embassy in your country to see which are the requisites for the health insurance in order to get your visa.
Degree seeking students can contract the University’s cum laude insurance policy, available through the university website http://www.zerbitzu-orokorrak.ehu.es/p258-shcococt/es/contenidos/enlace/ seguros/es_seguros/seguro.html .
28 3.8 Financial Support for students 3.8.1 Grants and Scholarships for students (undergraduate students and students enrolled in official master degrees) Undergraduate students and students enrolled in official Master Courses can apply to grants awarded by the Basque Government and the Spanish Ministry of Education. Each institution determines the requisites and conditions that must be fulfilled by the applicant in order to be eligible. The information on the different calls is updated regularly in the website: http://www.deialdiak-bekak. ehu.es/p214-home/es/
3.8.2 Grants and Scholarships for graduate students There are different grants and scholarships for graduate students. Each call specifies the requisites and conditions that must be fulfilled by the applicant in order to be eligible. The information on the different calls is updated regularly in the website: link http://www.ikasketak.ehu. es/p266-content/es/contenidos/informacion/convocatorias_doc_vregp/es_convocat/convocatorias_ alumnado.html
3.8.3 Student loans The Spanish Ministry of Education offers loans for graduate students. PréstamosRentaUniversidad: http://web.micinn.es/contenido.asp?dir=04_Universidades/ AA2ConBAP/02@Titulados/00@PRentaUniv
3.9 Student Affairs office The Youth information Centre (Oficina de Información Juvenil) and the Guidance Unit (Servicio de Orientación Universitaria) are services that act as Student Support Office, providing information on all aspects related to courses, certificates, enrolment, lodging, transport, sports and cultural activities etc.
ÁLAVA
YOUTH INFORMATION CENTRE GUIDANCE UNIT
Pabellón Universitario Los Apraiz, 1 Comandante Izarduy, 2. 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz T.: +34 945 01 43 36 Tel: +34 945·01·33·94 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
29 BIZKAIA
YOUTH INFORMATION CENTRE GUIDANCE UNIT
Plataforma Inferior de la Biblioteca BILBAO 48940 Leioa Larrako etxea. Lehendakari Aguirre, 83. 48015 Bilbao Tel.: +34 94 601 58 21 / 51 00 Tel.: +34 946 01 71 21 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
LEIOA Zona Inferior biblioteca. 48940 Leioa Tel.: +34 946 01 31 59 / +34 946 01 22 74 [email protected]
GIPUZKOA
YOUTH INFORMATION CENTRE GUIDANCE UNIT
Edificio Aulario Ignacio María Barriola Edif. IM Barriola. Plaza Elhuyar, 1. Campus Universitario 20018 Donostia 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián T.: +34 943 01 81 35 / 81 38 Tel: +34 943 01 82 56 E-mail: [email protected]| [email protected] [email protected]
3.10 Language Courses Intensive Spanish courses for exchange students are offered each September on each of the three Campuses of the University. Courses are also offered during the university year (Spanish and Basque): first semester courses go from the end of September to the end of January and the second semester ones run from the beginning of February until the end of May. All language courses are free for students participating in mobility programmes managed by the Vice- Rectorate of International Relations of the University of the Basque Country. Information concerning the courses can be obtained at the following address:
Secretaría de los Cursos de Español para Extranjeros: UPV/EHU/Vicerrectorado del Campus de Álava Comandante Izarduy, 2 E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz Tel.: +34 945 01 3356 +34 945 01 3354 E-mail: [email protected] http://www.relaciones-internacionales.ehu.es/p274-content/es/contenidos/enlace/cursos_de_ lenguas_alumnos_vrrr/es_cur_alum/cursos_lenguas_alumnado.html
30 DELE The Diplomas in Spanish as a Foreign Language (DELE) are the only officially accredited qualifications issued by the Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Social Policies and Sport of the Government of Spain that are administered internationally. They are recognized worldwide by private companies, chambers of commerce and public and private educational systems. It is important to note at this point that their use is mainly related to educational and professional contexts. Exams are administered nowadays in five levels, according to the degree of linguistic competence and the Common European Framework of Reference, although in the future the aim of the Institute is to extend the exams to all degrees recognised by this institution. This internationally recognised framework describes language ability in a scale of levels (A1, A2, B1, B2 and C2) that range from beginners to language proficient students.
DELE exams correspond to the following levels: A1, B1 (the current Nivel inicial or Beginners level), B2 (the current Nivel intermedio or Intermediate level) and C2 (the current Nivel superior or Proficiency level).
The University of the Basque Country in its Campus of Alava, as an official examination centre of the Instituto Cervantes, provides its students, as well as the rest of people interested, the opportunity of taking the DELE exam in all its levels and in the ordinary exam sessions of May and November.
Spanish courses for teachers (Español lengua Extranjera) Following the signing of a collaboration agreement with Instituto Cervantes, we have been able to provide this training through specific programmes. These courses are structured around a range of subjects with linguistic, educational, and methodological content.
3.11 Study Facilities The University of the Basque Country provides a variety of study facilities, including PC clusters and libraries, which are valuable resources for all of our courses.
Computer Services Computer services include email service, access to Campus computer rooms and the computer rooms in Faculties and Schools, Wi-Fi Wireless Internet and corporate data network Access Service.
31 Campus computer rooms ÁLAVA
Edificio de las Nieves Nieves Cano, 33 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz T.: 945 01 30 15
BIZKAIA
Edificio de la Biblioteca Central 48940 Leioa T.: 94 601 51 11
GIPUZKOA
Edificio Aulario Ignacio María Barriola Campus Universitario 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián T.: 943 01 81 45
LIBRARY
www.ehu.es/biblioteca The University Library is formed by the Leioa Campus Central Library, the Araba Campus Koldo Mitxelena Library, the Carlos Santamaría library in the Campus of Gipuzkoa and 19 other libraries located in different Faculties and Colleges. It features 1.015.487 books, 17.841 journals, 6.404 electronic journals, 88 specialized databases and 10.899 videos.
ÁLAVA
- Biblioteca Campus de Alava Koldo Mitxelena - Biblioteca Facultad de Ciencias de la Actividad Física y el Deporte
BIZKAIA
- Biblioteca Central - Biblioteca Facultad de Bellas Artes - Biblioteca Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales - Biblioteca E.T.S. de Ingeniería de Bilbao - Biblioteca E.U. de Estudios Empresariales - Biblioteca E.U. de Magisterio - Biblioteca E.U. de Ingeniería Técnica Industrial - Biblioteca E.U. de Ingeniería Técnica Minera - Biblioteca E.T.S. de Náutica y Máquinas Navales
32 GIPUZKOA
- Biblioteca Carlos Santamaría. Libraries will be located at each school or faculty until final completion of the central library building - Biblioteca E.U. de Ingeniería Técnica Industrial (Eibar) - Biblioteca E.U. de Enfermería
E- Learning: Virtual Campus Many study programmes include assessed online components The virtual campus is used both as the main method of delivery, or combined with classroom-based teaching. CAMPUS VIRTUAL campusvirtual.ehu.es Biblioteca Central, 5º piso. 48940 Leioa Secretaría: 94 601 22 55 Study Rooms Group study rooms and Individual study rooms are available in the Campus Libraries.
3.12 Internships Interships are managed through the online took “praktiges”. For further details, plase ask the staff at your faculty or school. www.praktiges-online.ehu.es/praktiges/inicio.jsp
3.13 Sports facilities Exchange students and home students may take part in University sports competition activities, courses and tours organised by the University. Applying for a sports card for a small fee will allow you to benefit from the use of sports facilities, access to numerous sports courses, programmed activities and discounts at sports shops. Information can be obtained upon arrival at:
ÁLAVA SPORTS-ARABA CAMPUS: www.kirolak-araba.ehu.es/p016-10852/es/ Vicerrectorado del Campus de Álava (Planta baja) Comandante Izarduy, 2 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz T.: 945 01 4303
BIZKAIA SPORTS-CAMPUS OF BISCAY: www.kirolak-bizkaia.ehu.es/ SERVICIO DE DEPORTES Polideportivo Universitario 48940 Leioa T.: 94 601 58 94 / 31 62 E-mail: [email protected]
33 GIPUZKOA www.ehu.es/donostia-deportes Pabellones Facultad de Derecho Pº Manuel Lardizabal, 2 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián T.: 943 01 81 58 / 81 59
3.14 Outdoor and leisure activities The “Servicio de Extensión Cultural y Proyección Universitaria” organises a great deal of cultural activities, including cinema, drama and dance performances, concerts, exhibitions, photo and art contests etc.
ÁLAVA Extensión Cultural y Proyección Universitaria www.vc.ehu.es Vicerrectorado del Campus de Álava (planta baja) Comandante Izarduy, 2 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz T.: 945 01 33 48 E-mail: [email protected]
BIZKAIA Leioa: Bilbao: Gestión Cultural Larrako Etxea www.ehu.es/kultura-bizkaia Avda. Lehendakari Agirre, 83 Oficina de Leioa: Edificio Aula Magna 48015 Bilbao 48940 Leioa T.: 94 601 7142 T.: 94 601 21 77 / 2104 Fax.: 94 601 7117 E-mail: [email protected]/ [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]
GIPUZKOA Servicio de Extensión Cultural www.sc.ehu.es/kultura Bajos de la Facultad de Derecho Pº Manuel Lardizabal, 2 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián T.: 943 01 85 07 E-mail: [email protected]
3.15 Student Associations The University of the Basque Country has a wide range of student associations, from Engineers Without Borders to Drama Associations, Ski Clubs or Junior Enterprises. You can contact them at: http://www. ikasleak.ehu.es/p202-shgradct/es/contenidos/informacion/asociaciones_estudiantes/es_asoc_est/ asociaciones_estudiantes_ehu.html
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