Dominican Republic: Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic, and is located on the southern coast of this island nation.  It has a bustling population of two million people, and is the economic and political center of the country.  The city, often called the "First City of the New World," is steeped in historical significance.  There are numerous plazas and churches throughout the colonial district, which give a distinct flavor to the city.  The city is divided by the Rio Ozama, and is close to many beaches.  Santo Domingo hosts the annual Latin American book fair, an international merengue music festival, Latin American movie festivals, and biennial art exhibitions.

The CIEE Liberal Arts Program is hosted by the Facultad Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales (FLACSO).  FLACSO-Dominican Republic is linked to other research teaching centers throughout Latin America and was founded by UNESCO.  FLACSO offers seminar courses for the CIEE program, and students also may enroll in regular courses at local universities.

Dates

Fall semester: late July to early December. Spring semester: early January to early May.

Fields of Study

Within the context of Caribbean Studies, students may take courses in anthropology, history, Latin American studies, literature, philosophy, politics, psychology, religion, sociology, and Spanish.

Eligibility

Five semesters of college-level Spanish or the equivalent. 8.25 GPA required.

Number of Students

5 or more. Total group approximately 20-40.

Academic Program

Pomona students must enroll in the Caribbean Studies track, which includes a required Development Internship (.75 Pomona credits) and a required core course, "Social and Ethnocultural Identity of the Contemporary Caribbean" (.75 Pomona credits).  The "Advanced Spanish and Written Composition" course is strongly recommended (.5 Pomona credits).  For the rest of the academic program, students select elective courses offered by FLACSO and three local universities: the Instituto Filosofico Pedro Francisco Bono, the Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, and Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo. The selection of university courses should be finalized in consultation with the CIEE resident director in Santo Domingo. University elective courses must focus on the Dominican Republic or the Caribbean region.

Students should plan a program that totals at least 16 semester credits (equal to 4.0 Pomona credits).

Students are not permitted to take any courses taught by the CIEE study center on a P/NC basis, however, students may take direct enrollment university courses on a P/NC basis.

The program also includes visits to historical and cultural sites of Santo Domingo and excursions to places of interest in the Dominican Republic.

Living Arrangements

Students live and take their meals in homes.

Faculty Liaison

April Mayes

Internet Links

http://ciee.org/program_search/program_detail.aspx?program_id=190&type=part
www.flacso.org