About JYS

Junior Year in Spain is a coeducational, intercollegiate study abroad program sponsored by Sweet Briar College, Virginia, which works in affiliation with the University of Seville, a prestigious 500-year-old institution of higher learning. Since its foundation in 1984, more than 1500 U.S. undergraduates have studied with Junior Year in Spain at the University of Seville in semester- and year-long stays. Currently, JYS also offers intensive summer courses.

JYS has agreements with two schools at the University, the School of Geography and History (Facultad de Geografía e Historia) and the School of Philology (Facultad de Filología), which offer many different courses on Spanish history, culture, and language, some of them with a special focus on Andalusia or Seville. Additionally, many advanced-level JYS students have taken classes in other schools within the University, such as Medicine, Economics, or Psychology.

The program's main goals are academic: improving the Spanish linguistic and cultural competency of our students, broadening their international perspective, and providing opportunities to expand their knowledge of the academic disciplines available to them through the University of Seville. The academic goals of JYS reflect the rigorous educational standards of Sweet Briar College itself, which is one of the "International 50," an elite group of private institutions recognized for their international academic programs. We strive for excellence in teaching, a depth of cultural awareness, and personal rewards.

Because our program is committed to accommodating individual interests, we accept only a limited number of students. This small-group format creates a secure and supportive atmosphere for students and fosters lasting friendships.