Quito, Ecuador

Overview

Quito is the capital city of Ecuador and sits at an elevation of 9,300 ft. Although Ecuador is only about the size of Nevada, it is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world and students will be able to experience its many regions and climates throughout the semester. Students will study at the Andean Center for Latin American Studies (ACLAS) and at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ). Excursions include a five day pre-program voyage in the Galapagos Islands, Quito city tour, Otovalo and Cuenca. Find more information for international students through the Office of International Programs at USFQ.

Academics

During the first month in Quito students will take an intensive Spanish course at ACLAS which counts towards one (1.0) credit at WU. Another credit will be a result of a service learning component students complete during the semester. Other credits will be taken at USFQ, one of the only liberal arts universities in South America. All classes are taught in Spanish. Recommended majors include Spanish, Latin American Studies, History, Politics, Rhetoric and Media Studies, Psychology, and Computer Science. USFQ is not limited to these majors. Explore the available courses on USFQ's website. To find courses go to the Oficina de Registro at USFQ website and click on Primer Semestre, then use the pull down menu under Departamentos. Also, consult the Academics section of the Oficina de Programs Internacionales page. A list of all undergraduate programs is found under Pregrados on the USFQ website.

Housing

Students will live with host families in Quito within a short walk or bus ride of ACLAS. USFQ is a fifteen to twenty minute bus ride from ACLAS. Most meals will be taken with the host families with some at restaurants and cafeterias near the university.

Dates

This program is available in the fall only. The program begins in mid July and ends late December. A yearlong program may be available, please contact the OIE for more information regarding the year option.

Cost

The program cost is WU tuition plus a program fee which is equivalent to Willamette’s Room and Board Plan B. The fee includes full room and board, home to university transportation costs, program planned excursions and on-site support.

Pre-departure Resources

Andean Center for Latin American Studies (ACLAS)
Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ)
Office of International Programs at USFQ
Oficina de Registro (course lists)
Ecuadorian Consulate in San Francisco, visa information (do not start the visa process until advised by the OIE)
Willamette World News: Ecuador
News
Local Weather
Ecuador Embassy
CIA World Factbook
Lonely Planet Guide