Universidad Pontificia Comillas SAPIENS Summer


Image of Universidad Pontificia Comillas SAPIENS Summer program
Engineering Students can take classes and/or participate on a research project.
Location: Madrid, Spain
Language of Instruction: SpanishEnglish
Term: Summer
Academic Disciplines: Civil EngineeringEngineering
Program Type: Research Abroad
Open to non-KU Students: No
Fulfills KU Core 4.2: No
Fulfills KU Core 5: No

  • Engineering students can take courses in the SAPIENS program and/or participate on a research project.
  • Participate in the one-month or two-month program.
  • Students can opt to take a Spanish language or culture course.

Universidad Pontificia Comillas offers engineering students the opportunity to participate in a one-month or two-month summer program that includes classes and participating on a research project. To see the semester options, see the Universidad Pontificia Comillas program page.

Universidad Pontificia Comillas is located in Madrid, the capital of Spain. With a population of slightly over 3 million, there truly is something for everyone. Madrid, and all of Spain, has a rich history dating back to centuries, which is reflected in art museums and churches. There is also an upbeat, modern influence in hip bars and restaurants, high end shopping, and the world famous soccer team, Real Madrid. Take time to explore both aspects of Madrid and get to know madrileños who can show off their great city.

The university is a private Jesuit university, founded in 1890. The ICAI School of Engineering is located next to the main campus. View Universidad Pontificia Comillas campus information and a map.

Students will take classes through the ICAI School of Engineering. They offer their semester engineering program, SAPIENS, during the summer term. Students will be able to take courses in English or Spanish and can study engineering, Spanish culture, and the Spanish language. Students who participate in the two-month program will also have the option to participate in a research project. Read more about the SAPIENS program and view course syllabi.

Students are encouraged to use the following resources to research available courses at Comillas and to determine if these courses will meet their academic requirements at KU. 

- Summer SAPIENS course syllabi

- KU Course Equivalency Database is a list of:

  • Courses that are currently pre-approved for KU credit (approved equivalency)
  • Courses that students have had approved for KU credit in the past (possible equivalency)

- Credit Approval Process: This is the procedure for obtaining KU course equivalency approval for courses you plan to take abroad.

All courses taken and grades earned while abroad must be posted as KU equivalents on a student’s KU transcript and grades will figure into a student’s KU GPA. The relevant KU academic department will make the final decision regarding posting of credit, and their application toward graduation.

Universidad Pontificia Comillas does not have campus housing, so students are responsible for finding their own housing. Comillas suggests a few housing companies students can work with and the information about these companies is in the handbook that accepted students receive. Housing options typically include host families and apartments.

Please note that that housing on the budget is a host family with half board. If a different housing option is chosen, the cost will vary.

The International Office publishes a Guide for International Students, which is a great resource to learn more about the university, Spanish education system, and the city of Madrid. To read the guide, go to the Universidad Pontificia Comillas Engineering Department's homepage and under the "International" tab, click "Guide for Foreign Students."

SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.

Additional Resources

Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.

Open to KU Engineering students with a minimum 2.75 GPA or special permission.