Join us for a unique six-week program focused on Spanish for the Health Professions. The program is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in medicine or health-related professions. It takes place in Pamplona, Spain and our host is the “Instituto de Lenguas y Comunicación Extranjeras” (ILCE) at the University of Navarra. You will complete a total of 6 credit hours. We offer SPAN 325 taught by a Rice faculty leader. You will also take SPAN 324 at the UNAV - “School of Medicine” with two of its faculty members. This is an exclusive experiential learning course in basic medical skills, taken at the Universidad de Navarra's “Faculty of Medicine Simulation Center.” You will also have time to explore beautiful northern Spain, including cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián, and enjoy its fine culinary tradition.
The Medical Humanities Program offers a practicum in Spain (MDHM 420). Students in this program will take one course abroad (SPAN 324) in addition to completing the practicum. MDHM 420 has very limited spots and admission to the program is subject to proficiency level and interview. You will have the opportunity to indicate your interest in this practicum on the application for Rice in Spain.
Rice in Spain fulfills the experiential learning requirement for the Certificate in Language and Intercultural Communication.
Click on this link to watch a slide presentation about Rice in Spain.
| Prerequisites* | SPAN 204 or 321 for SPAN 322 | SPAN 322 or 303 for SPAN 325 | MDHM 420 - case by case |
| Location | Pamplona |
| Program Dates | May 18 - June 25, 2026 |
| Courses | SPAN 322 or SPAN 325 or MDHM 420 and SPAN 324 |
| Applications Open | November 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | January 17, 2026 |
*Medical Spanish is highly recommended. Introduction to Medical Humanities is strongly recommended for MDHM 420.
See below for more important dates.
| Expense | Rice Students Pay |
|---|---|
| Tuition* | $10,800* |
| Simulation Center Fee | n/a |
| Airfare (estimated Houston - Pamplona) | $1,500 - $1,900 |
| Local Transportation | $50 |
| Personal Expenses (Non-program activities or outings, varies by individual, emergency cash) | $250 - $400 |
| Sub-total | $1,800 - $2,350 |
| Total | $12,600 - $13,150 |
*Tuition includes:
- 6 Rice credit hours
- Accommodation with a host family or in a university dormitory for 6 weeks
- 3 meals per day (lunch on campus included)
- Local/regional excursions
- Community engagement
Some financial aid is available.
Learn about financial aid options at this link: Rice in Country Financial Aid
For more information, consult with the Faculty Leaders, Profe Thais Diaz Montalvo (td20@rice.edu) or Profe Aymara Boggiano (ab76@rice.edu).
Important Dates
Fall Information Session
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Info Session with Financial Aid
Check back for more information.
Application Period
November 1, 2025 - January 17, 2026
Spring Information Session
Check back for more information
Decision and Scholarship Notification
Mid-February, 2026
Acceptance Deadline
Check back for more information
Deadline to drop Rice in Country Courses
Pre-Departure Orientation
Rice in Spain
May 18 - June 25, 2026