Today, I’d like to talk about Elisava Barcelona School of Design and Engineering, where I am currently studying abroad.
Elisava, affiliated with the University of Vic, was founded in 1961 and is known as one of the first design schools in Spain. The school works closely with companies such as Adidas, IKEA, and SEAT on real-world projects, which makes the learning experience very practical. It also brings together students from many different countries through study abroad and other programs, creating a diverse and global environment.
As an Industrial Design major, I was especially interested in Elisava’s approach that combines design, technology, and engineering. This was one of the main reasons I chose to study here.
One of the most interesting parts of studying at Elisava is the classroom dynamic. Even though it is a design school where all courses are design-related, classes include a mix of both design and non-design students. At my home university, I was used to working with students of the same major and similar design backgrounds. Here, however, I have been exposed to a wide range of skill levels, perspectives, and approaches to ideation. Adjusting to these differences has been challenging at times, but it has also been a valuable experience that has broadened the way I think about design.
This semester, I am taking five courses, each with a completely different focus. Advanced Principles in Design helps build a strong foundation and develop creativity. Design Context: Culture, History, and Art explores Spanish design history while visiting buildings and museums around Barcelona. Food Design and Food Systems looks at how we design not only food-related exhibitions but also the experience of eating itself. Furniture and Product Design focuses on designing and prototyping physical products, and Biomaterials explores sustainable materials and how they can be developed and applied to design.
Since all of these courses approach design in different ways, the process is not always easy. However, it has been a great opportunity to go beyond industrial design and explore new areas that I had never experienced before.
Overall, studying at Elisava has been both challenging and inspiring. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me see design in new ways. If you are considering studying abroad in Barcelona, Elisava is definitely worth checking out.
Written by: Justine, Spring 2026 Barcelona student from RIT
