Ready to Study Abroad?
Our admissions counselors can’t wait to help you!
Elisava School of Design
Fall Semester Elective 2020
12 - 18 credits
The design semester at Elisava allows visiting SAI students the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in English-taught design courses at one of Europe’s top design school, with a special focus on hands-on experience and direct engagement with the city of Barcelona. Two program tracks allow options for students with or without previous design experience. Students select their track and choose 4 to 6 design courses for a total of 12 - 18 credits.
Application: closed
Application Requirements
Complete online application
Personal statement (300-500 words)
Official transcript
Passport scan (photo page)
Digital photo (passport style)
Resume
EU privacy consent form
Track B: Portfolio (4 pages and 2MB max, PDF)
NOTE: Due to the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak, SAI has cancelled this on-site program. Please reach out to SAI Admissions to discuss your options.
Program Dates
September 19, 2020 – December 16, 2020
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
Academic Year: Sophomore (2nd year) or above
Cumulative GPA:* 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
* contact SAI if you don’t meet requirements
Semester Abroad in Design
The capacity of communicating trough images and expressing the relevant aspects of a project, from the idea to the final proposal, is a fundamental aspect of design. This course is aimed at providing students with representation concepts and techniques that are broadly applied in design fields. Based on exercises, talks and workshop sessions, the course embraces the ability of students to define and show their ideas by
learning about the options and features that Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Indesign and Adobe Illustrator offer as a powerful suite specifically conceived for design professionals. Mandatory for participants to the Study Abroad programme without experience in digital representation and visual narrative, the course is also recommended for those design students who
want to deepen their knowledge of digital tools and learn more about the Adobe Suite. The course approaches also the basic concepts of video editing and production, as well as fundamentals of presentation techniques, in order to provide students with a complete range of options that they will put into practice in many visual communications required by the Study Abroad programme as well as by future design projects.
learning about the options and features that Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Indesign and Adobe Illustrator offer as a powerful suite specifically conceived for design professionals. Mandatory for participants to the Study Abroad programme without experience in digital representation and visual narrative, the course is also recommended for those design students who
want to deepen their knowledge of digital tools and learn more about the Adobe Suite. The course approaches also the basic concepts of video editing and production, as well as fundamentals of presentation techniques, in order to provide students with a complete range of options that they will put into practice in many visual communications required by the Study Abroad programme as well as by future design projects.
Contact Hours: 45
This course focuses on product and furniture design, covering the entire process from conceptualization, formalization, development and pre-production of a designed object from the human, domestic or work environment. The course will analyze the social, ergonomic and aesthetic environment of the user, the method for producing the final work and the impact of this on the environment as a whole. Students will approach the semantics of objects, their functional and communicative capacity along with the integration of materials and technology. As part of the development and design of products, the class will visit factories, showrooms and design boutiques as well as use the school's workshops.
Modules:
- Design management
- Creativity
- Techniques of model construction
- Technical project development
- Suppliers, materials research, and the hardware
- Presentation skills and project communication
- Trade fairs and the latest trends
- Preparation for final project presentation
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Design | Course #: 200053 | Open
Pre-requisite: Understanding of the basic concepts of graphic design, 3D modeling and prototyping (mock ups)
This course introduces the tools necessary for conceptualizing and developing comprehensive packaging projects. Packaging is one of the most relevant branches of contemporary design not only for practical reasons, since almost all products going to the market require a package
that protect them and preserve their quality, but also from a conceptual point of view, since it is the complex crossroads of highly demanding technical requirements and exciting opportunities for communicating the values of the products and their brands to the public. In this course students will learn to communicate —both formally and graphically— the attributes of a product and the placement of a brand. The goal is to understand the factors affecting production and selection of a package for a specific product, its possibilities and materials.
that protect them and preserve their quality, but also from a conceptual point of view, since it is the complex crossroads of highly demanding technical requirements and exciting opportunities for communicating the values of the products and their brands to the public. In this course students will learn to communicate —both formally and graphically— the attributes of a product and the placement of a brand. The goal is to understand the factors affecting production and selection of a package for a specific product, its possibilities and materials.
Contact Hours: 45
Retail is naturally the showplace for new ideas, new concepts and new products. As such, the store environment serves as the selling stage for the latest merchandise offerings of the day, and a tool of communication used to create a dialogue with the targeted customer. Through effective
visual merchandising, the retailer communicates both the attributes of the brand, and the attributes of the products offered. This is the reason why the construction of a coherent narrative -involving spaces, products and graphic elements- is an essential requirement for retail design and visual
merchandising.
The main goal of this course is to introduce students to the importance of visual merchandising as an integral component of a successful retail strategy. This course will include an in depth analysis of the retail store environment. The principles, philosophies and technologies of visual merchandising will be studied through exploration of the marketplace, visits, and hands-on classroom experimentation.
visual merchandising, the retailer communicates both the attributes of the brand, and the attributes of the products offered. This is the reason why the construction of a coherent narrative -involving spaces, products and graphic elements- is an essential requirement for retail design and visual
merchandising.
The main goal of this course is to introduce students to the importance of visual merchandising as an integral component of a successful retail strategy. This course will include an in depth analysis of the retail store environment. The principles, philosophies and technologies of visual merchandising will be studied through exploration of the marketplace, visits, and hands-on classroom experimentation.
Contact Hours: 45
The Interior Spaces course introduces design students to the complexities of the development of the interior spaces, as well as putting them in touch with the local architecture and design culture. The course structure is designed to provide a general framework for the development of a range of projects, from small scale briefs to a larger scale proposal for a residential interior. The program provides the student with knowledge and skills in all areas of space planning, theory and concept, model-making and freehand drawing as well as communication. Priority is given to learning strategies that foster critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making capabilities. As a result, students will increase their creative skills and get a substantial vision in all areas related to interior space design. With an active participation of the students, several practical exercises integrated within the course promote a conceptual and experimental approach to design through a hands-on learning method. It usually begins with a presentation to provide the theoretical foundation that aims to deepen the comprehension of a specific subject. During class, students will develop a quick draft resolution, PowerPoint presentations, and/ or a physical model.
Contact Hours: 45
This course focuses on Graphic Design as the discipline that uses visual concepts to communicate ideas. The course aims to practice the tools of graphic design, Colour, Image, Composition and Typography and the relation between them. Typography is one of the most important tools for graphic designers. Students will experiment from movable type fonts to digital typography movement. In this course students will learn how to design projects that will range from artistic and experimental typography to poster composition, branding, editorial design and digital interaction. Students will also become familiar with basic communication skills, considering that contemporary narratives require the capacity to deal
with static and dynamic images.
with static and dynamic images.
Contact Hours: 45
This course focuses on food from its origins to the present, in order to understand the complex system behind the fact of "feeding" people. The course will approach this subject from gastronomy, anthropology, history, etymology and food systems among other disciplines, thus the course has the aim of giving the students diverse approaches and tools to make them capable not just to understand this interdisciplinary subject but to create design objects or services in relation with food and gastronomy with sense and content. The course will introduce students to the interaction of design, as a creative process, with food and health, as a fundamental part of the human being. As part of the development of the aims of the course, the class will visit exhibitions, culinary centers and food designers’ studios in Barcelona’s area.
Contact Hours: 45
Through demonstrations, workshops and studio sessions, this course will exercise student‚s creativity and knowledge regarding both traditional and contemporary, innovative ways of creating and doing. As creative minds and human beings in a constant learning process, we must understand the
importance of context and the interactions between the artist/designer and the surrounding world.
This course emphasizes collective creation, building teams and bringing students out of their comfort zones. This course will guide students through research and project exercises, culminating in the creation of an ephemeral installation within the public space of Barcelona. Visiting and re-visiting the city will help students reach an immersive understanding driven by analysis, data visualization, sketches and presentations. Students will
select the most interesting ideas and make them happen.
importance of context and the interactions between the artist/designer and the surrounding world.
This course emphasizes collective creation, building teams and bringing students out of their comfort zones. This course will guide students through research and project exercises, culminating in the creation of an ephemeral installation within the public space of Barcelona. Visiting and re-visiting the city will help students reach an immersive understanding driven by analysis, data visualization, sketches and presentations. Students will
select the most interesting ideas and make them happen.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Design | Course #: 200473 | Open
This course relates different branches of human knowledge like architecture, design, sociology, history and art with the aim of developing a cognitive map of the world. The course analyzes the basic theories and practices of art, architecture and design from the industrial revolution to the present day and discusses their social and cultural impact. Taking
Barcelona as a case study, the course will provide the student with analytical and discursive tools in order to develop a global understanding of design and its relationship with the social context from a critical and innovative point of view.
The analysis of Barcelona, which epitomizes the formation process of the modern industrial city and its shifting to the post-industrial metropolis of the globalization era, will be related with the specific contexts of the students, with the aim of reflecting on the different approaches to the design issues from a multicultural perspective.
The course takes advantage of the extensive resources of Barcelona, complementing the classes with visits to the city’s museums such as MNAC (National Museum of Art of Catalonia), MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona), Joan Miró Foundation and the Picasso Museum,
emblematic buildings by Gaudi, Mies van der Rohe and other world class architects, among others.
Barcelona as a case study, the course will provide the student with analytical and discursive tools in order to develop a global understanding of design and its relationship with the social context from a critical and innovative point of view.
The analysis of Barcelona, which epitomizes the formation process of the modern industrial city and its shifting to the post-industrial metropolis of the globalization era, will be related with the specific contexts of the students, with the aim of reflecting on the different approaches to the design issues from a multicultural perspective.
The course takes advantage of the extensive resources of Barcelona, complementing the classes with visits to the city’s museums such as MNAC (National Museum of Art of Catalonia), MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona), Joan Miró Foundation and the Picasso Museum,
emblematic buildings by Gaudi, Mies van der Rohe and other world class architects, among others.
Contact Hours: 45
Program Options
SAI students at Elisava choose from the following two program tracks:
Track A (for students without a design background): Students enroll in three mandatory courses (below), and select an additional 1 – 3 elective courses for a total of 12 – 18 US credits.
- The Global and Historic Context of Art and Design
- Advanced Principles in Design: Integrating Communication, Humanities and Scientific Techniques
- Digital Representation Principles
Track B (for students with a design background): Students select any 4 – 6 courses from the offering for a total of 12 – 18 US credits.
Courses & Registration
Students make their course selections when submitting SAI’s online application. Course registration is confirmed well in advance of the program start date.
| Pre-Departure Calendar | |
|---|---|
| June 15 2020 |
Application Closes Applications accepted after closing as space permits. |
| Within 1 week of acceptance |
SAI Deposits Due $500 Confirmation Deposit (applied toward program fee) $300 Security Deposit (refundable) |
| June 1 2020 |
50% of Total Program Fee Due Students who are accepted and submit SAI deposits after this date will have an amended pay schedule. Either 50% or 100% of Program Fee will be due within 5 business days, based on the deposit payment date. |
| June 1 2020 |
SAI Scholarship Application Deadline Students wishing to apply for an SAI scholarship must have all application items submitted by 11:59pm Pacific Time on this date. |
| July 1 2020 |
SAI Financial Aid Verification Deadline Students wishing to defer payment until financial aid disbursement must submit the financial aid verification forms to SAI by this date. |
| July 1 2020 |
Balance of Total Program Fee Due |
| August 15 2020 |
SAI Pre-Departure Form Due |
| On-Site Calendar | |
|---|---|
| September 19 2020 |
Arrival & Housing Check-in Students arrive into El Prat Barcelona (BCN) airport. SAI airport pickup is provided between 10:00am and 3:00pm, and students are transferred to SAI housing. |
| September 20 2020 |
SAI Orientation Mandatory SAI orientation is held at the SAI Barcelona office and introduces students to their city while covering safety, policies, housing, and culture. |
| September 21 2020 |
Elisava Welcome & Academic Orientation Elisava orientation provides details on academic policies, and allows students to meet one another and their professors. Classes begin after orientation. |
| September 21 2020 |
Elisava Classes Begin |
| Coming soon |
Midterm exams |
| December 15 2020 |
Final Exams End |
| December 16 2020 |
Program End & Housing Check-out Students must move out of SAI housing by 10:00am to return home or pursue independent travel. |
| SAI Program Fees* | USD |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $120 |
| Security Deposit Refundable at the end of the term. |
$300 |
| Program Fee: 12 credits Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
$12,300 |
| Program Fee: 15 credits Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
$13,450 |
| Program Fee: 18 credits Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
$14,600 |
| Optional / Additional Fees: | |
| Optional Private Room Housing Supplement Private room in a shared apartment, with a shared bathroom. |
$1,200 |
| Optional Visa Processing Fee Available for some jurisdictions. |
$200 |
| International Mailing Supplement When applicable, students are charged an international mailing supplement to ensure visa paperwork arrives in a timely manner. |
$90 |
*prices are subject to change
Note: certain SAI-affiliated US universities require specific payment arrangements. These may require that some fees are paid by the student directly to SAI, and other fees are paid to SAI by the affiliated university on behalf of the student. If you attend an SAI-affiliated university please contact your study abroad office or speak with your SAI Admissions Counselor for details.
| Budget | Low Est. | High Est. |
|---|---|---|
| Airfare to/from Barcelona |
$950 | $1,500 |
| Visa Cost depends on travel to Consulate. |
$160 | $360 |
| Books, Supplies & Course Fees | $200 / course | $250 / course |
| Meals Includes groceries and eating out. |
$700 / month | $1,000 / month |
| Personal Expenses | $300 / month | $350 / month |
| Transportation within Barcelona Public transportation with some taxi rides. |
$100 / month | $150 / month |
| Weekend Travel Cost varies greatly by student. |
$300 / month | $1,000 / month |
This is an SAI 360° Services Program; it includes our full services!
- Program tuition and U.S. academic credit
- Accommodation in carefully selected student housing
- Airport pickup and transportation on arrival day
- Welcome reception and events
- SAI orientation to the host city and school
- SAI staff on-site dedicated to providing personal assistance
- SAI Viva Experience: frequent cultural activities & trips outside host city
- Student health insurance providing full coverage and medical emergency evacuation
- Access to and assistance with international cell phone plans
- 24-hour on-site emergency support
- Farewell event with all students
Pre-departure and Re-entry services
- US-based admissions counselor assigned to you, providing friendly assistance
- Helpful pre-departure tools and resources
- Online student groups to acquaint you with other SAI students
- Assistance with student visa application
- Assistance with financial aid processing
- Need-based SAI scholarships
- Paid registration fees for national re-entry conferences
- SAI Ambassador Program for SAI alumni, with paid internship opportunities
- SAI alumni network
SAI offers all students the Viva Experience: frequent cultural activities, at no extra cost, for participants to get to know their community, city and country. Following is a sample of the activities included in this program. Please note that actual activities may differ.
Welcome Lunch
Students are welcomed to their new city over a traditional 3 course Spanish lunch to mingle and get to know each other.
Discovering Barcelona: Scavenger Hunt
Students attempt to solve questions with a team with the aid of a map and road book. In the course of the activity, they will discover various jewels of the city including the Sagrada Familia, the Casa Batlló, the Cathedral of Barcelona, and the old quarter while learning how take the metro and the bus. There will be prizes for the winners!
Volunteering in a Primary School
Students visit a local primary school to participate in English classroom activities with children between the ages of 3 and 12. This enriching activity is available for students to continue throughout their term if they wish.
The Spanish Family Experience
Under the guidance of SAI’s on-site Program Coordinator, students are introduced to a local family with the goal of facilitating cultural exchange. Students typically meet with their “families” once a week and spend time chatting with the children in English, followed by a family dinner. This allows students to get a glimpse of family life in Barcelona and to create lasting friendships.
Spanish Cooking Lesson
Students take a cooking lesson designed to teach typical Spanish (mostly Catalan) dishes that are easy to make again independently. Dishes are prepared according to the season and include appetizer, main course and dessert.
Poblenou Neighborhood Tour
This ex-industrial district has transformed into a hub for creativity and technology in recent years. Students visit this fascinating neighborhood that has with its personality outlined by charming smokestacks that are scattered throughout the area. Discover old factories that have been converted into galleries and studios and communication and technology companies that have based their headquarters in the 22@ district. There will also be a stop at the Encants flea market!
Explore Tarragona & Visit the Santes Creus Monastery
While in Catalonia, you cannot miss the city of Tarragona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Emperor Augustus lived here and made it the capital of Hispania Citerior. The city still has ancient Roman walls, circus, and an amphitheater overlooking the sea. Students will enjoy the medieval quarter and its Gothic cathedral. Free time will be given for lunch. We will then go to the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Santes Creus, one of the largest and best-preserved Cistercian monastic complexes in Spain.
Cultural Workshop: Navigating the Spanish Culture
Through this workshop students will learn the habits (European differences), traditions, food and language tips.
Montgat Fish Market & Bravas at a Traditional Xiringuito
Experience the authentic Mediterranean lifestyle on a trip to Montgat. With just a short local train ride students can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a small fishermen’s village where there is still a local daily fish market. This includes time at the beach and stop at a traditional local “xiringuito” right by the sea to have some bravas and a refreshment.
Visit the Bunkers of Carmel
A visit to one of the most astonishing viewpoints in Barcelona. These anti-aircraft batteries from the Spanish Civil War have become a popular spot amongst locals and visitors.
Sitges Beach Day
Students visit the town of Sitges, which is a paradise of sun, sea and mild temperatures year-round, and a venue for international film and music festivals. Beautiful views and long beaches make Sitges a wonderful day trip.
Montserrat Day Trip
Students take a day trip to Montserrat, a spectacularly beautiful Benedictine mountain retreat. Its unusual rock formations and its natural beauty have made it a Catalonian icon. Students take the cable train up the mountain to visit the monastery and wander the mountain paths, with amazing views of the Catalonian countryside.
Farewell Dinner
Students celebrate the end of a successful time abroad and say their goodbyes over a delicious Spanish meal.
Standard Housing: Student apartment
SAI student apartments are convenient and well equipped, with shared occupancy bedrooms (option to upgrade to private bedroom, if available). Typical residences house 2 – 8 students and contain a combination of private and shared bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom and living areas. Furnishings, a washing machine, basic kitchen supplies, bed linens and towels are provided. All apartments are equipped with wireless Internet. Housing assignments are single gender; other housing configurations may be available under limited circumstances. SAI on-site staff is available to respond to any maintenance needs that may arise.
Passports
Passports should be valid for 6 months after planned departure from Spain.
Student Visas
In accordance with Spanish law, US students studying in Spain for 90 days or less are NOT required to obtain a student visa. The fall 2020 study abroad program at Elisava runs for fewer than 91 days, so students are not required to obtain a visa for this term.
Non-US nationals should consult their local Consulate for details on student visa requirements.
About SAI
SAI is dedicated to providing academic and cultural learning experiences abroad that enhance global awareness, professional development and social responsibility. We concentrate our programs in Europe, with a focus on in-depth learning of individual European countries and their unique global role in the geopolitical economy, humanities, and in the arts.