argentina-study-abroad

Argentina Study Abroad Country Profile


Argentina Overview

Argentina is the second largest country in Latin America, and boasts a variety of natural wonders and cultural attractions, centered around the capital city of Buenos Aires. This cosmopolitan city is regarded by many as "the Paris of South America" because it has such a great selection of high quality museums, galleries, theaters, and film festivals. While Buenos Aires is the major focal point of the country, the rest of Argentina has much to offer, and the country as a whole is historically rich – Juan and Eva Peron are two of the foremost figures in Argentina’s modern political story, but Argentina’s history dates back to the era of the ancient Incas. Prosperity in the late 19th century and an influx of immigrants contributed to the formation of the cosmopolitan city that Buenos Aires is today, and the entire country is steeped in tradition.

Cultural Highlights

There are really two aspects to Argentinian culture – Buenos Aires, and the rest of the country. Buenos Aires is the cultural center of Argentina, and features elegant architecture, many historical attractions, museums, theaters, and more. There is something for everyone in this fascinating city. The city’s architecture reflects Italian, Spanish, and French influences, and each of Buenos Aires’ neighborhoods has something special about it. There are the small, brightly painted houses of La Boca, the tango in San Telmo, and so much more. Roughly 40% of Argentina’s population lives in the capital, so it is very lively and there is always something to do.

Elsewhere in Argentina, visit estancias in Las Pampas to learn about the traditional gaucho culture and lifestyle. Travel to the southernmost part of Argentina to Patagonia, where you can see many relics of ancient peoples and animals alike. The rest of Argentina is replete with natural and cultural history, form the Mapuche of Patagonia to the Quechua of the northwest, and many points of interest in adjacent countries are easily accessible as well, like the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu.

Popular Fields of Study

It goes without saying that Argentina is a great destination if you are interested in learning or perfecting your Spanish, and Argentina study abroad universities offer courses on a variety of topics, all taught in Spanish. Of course, Spanish doesn’t have to be your primary interest while you’re here, though you won’t be able to help but pick it up and use it while you’re studying abroad.

Whether you are interested in studying social movements and human rights or the consolidation of the country’s democratic institutions, Argentina is a fantastic destination for learning about politics, history and culture. Anthropology, social cinema, and Latin American art are also viable topics of study in Argentina. If you are interested in the arts or social sciences, Argentina might just be the place for you.

Why Study Abroad in Argentina?

Argentina has many unique advantages as a study abroad destination. Here are ten reasons why you should consider studying abroad in Argentina.

1. Learn Spanish

Whether it is your intention to learn Spanish or not, you can’t help but pick it up and use it during your time in Argentina. Take advantage of being immersed in this incredibly widespread and useful language.

2. Food and Drink

Argentina has many gastronomic delicacies, from traditional dishes to international cuisine. The Argentinian wine industry is also growing, and there are many opportunities to try some of Argentina’s homegrown wines, like the fantastic red wines produced from Malbec grapes.

3. Culture, Culture, Culture

There are so many cultural things to see and do in Argentina, you’ll be hard pressed to do everything before it’s time to leave. Whether you’re interested in museums, architecture, or learning to tango, you’ll never be at a loss for something to do.

4. Iguazu Falls

This is a truly breathtaking natural wonder. Situated on the border between Brazil and Iguazu, you will most likely visit these massive waterfalls. Be sure to take a boat ride underneath them!

5. Cost of Living

As you may expect, many things are available for much cheaper than you would be able to find them at home. Prices of basics are very affordable for students, which leaves you with a bigger budget to travel and see the sights.

6. Accessibility

Much of South America is accessible from Argentina, and travel to other parts of the continent is much cheaper since you’re already there. After completing your Argentina study abroad experience you'll have lots of nearby and accessible places to travel and explore. Make the most of your time before heading home!

7. Mar del Plata

Mar del Plata is considered Argentina’s premier beach area. It provides a perfect destination for a weekend of independent travel.

8. Whale Watching

Argentina’s north-south layout means that there is a large amount of diversity in its natural environments. Travel south to the Valdez Peninsula to watch whales and orcas.

9. Friends In New Places

Forge life-long friendships with your fellow students. Practice your Spanish, have a pen pal (or pen pals) when you get home, and maybe even have a place to stay if you visit Argentina in the future!

10. LEARN SPANISH!

It can’t be said enough: immersion is simply the best method for learning a language. Now is the time to do it!

Argentina Study Abroad Statistics

Argentina Country Ranking: 12

(based on total outbound U.S. students)
  • % of U.S. students: 1.6%
  • Total US Students 2005/06: 2,865
  • Total US Students 2006/07: 3,617
  • Yearly 2006/07 Trend: +26.2%
  • Need Help Deciding?

    One of the following program providers can help!


    Expanish

    Our Spanish courses accommodate all levels and our helpful staff and beautiful, modern facilities will make you feel at home. There really is no better way to learn Spanish in Argentina. You can easily combine one of our Spanish immersion courses in Buenos Aires with fun activities, local workshops, and exciting excursions that allow you to discover the real Argentina and improve your Spanish quickly!

    Offering Programs In:
    Argentina
    ,
    Peru



    If you've found our Argentina study abroad country profile useful please