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Pre-Health Seminar & Shadowing
Madrid, Spain
About the Program
The Pre-Health Seminar & Shadowing program is designed for students pursuing healthcare careers and who are looking for the opportunity to get observational clinical experience while earning academic credit abroad. Hospital shadowing will help to prepare you for a career in medicine and make you stand out in the medical school application process. Our 60-hour observational placements are powered by Atlantis, a leading provider of health experiential learning that is now part of the CEA CAPA family. All students will also take part in our 3-credit health shadowing seminar, which has been specially designed to help you get the most out of your placement experience.
Program Notes
Pre-Health Seminar & Shadowing is a highly competitive program due to the scarcity of hospital shadowing placements. Students applying for this program will be waitlisted for admission and will know their acceptance decision no later than the Withdrawal date listed below. We encourage you to apply early!
Requirements
Overview
Madrid
late May 2026 - late Jun 2026
$7,995
3
Deadlines
3/1/26
4/1/26
Requirements
Eligibility
2.5
1 Year of College completed prior to program start
Where You'll Study
CEA CAPA Madrid Center
The CEA CAPA Madrid Center, located in a historic building in the bustling Puerta del Sol neighborhood, offers an immersive experience in one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals...
Counseling Services
CEA CAPA Academic Resources
Internet Access & Wi-Fi
Academic Advising
CEA CAPA Madrid Center
The CEA CAPA Madrid Center, located in a historic building in the bustling Puerta del Sol neighborhood, offers an immersive experience in one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and Gran Vía, the Center provides you with a convenient base to explore Madrid’s rich history and dynamic culture. With Retiro Park and renowned museums such as the Prado and Reina Sofía nearby, the city’s artistic and green spaces are always within reach.
The Center’s central location ensures quick access to Madrid’s extensive public transport network, connecting you to every corner of the city and beyond. From the nearby Sol metro station to major train hubs like Atocha, travel becomes seamless, whether within Madrid or across Spain and Europe. The Madrid Center faculty curate excursions beyond Madrid to other historical cities like Toledo or Segovia, both known for their medieval architecture.
Designed to foster learning and growth, the Madrid Center combines modern classrooms with comprehensive student services. Internships and cultural excursions provide complementary options to help you build career-ready skills while gaining firsthand experience in a global setting.
With a focus on academic excellence and personal support, the Madrid Center creates a vibrant community. It’s a space where education, exploration, and cultural exchange come together in the heart of Spain’s capital.
Transcript Information
Courses at the CEA CAPA Madrid Center are transcripted by the University of New Haven (UNH), CEA CAPA’s School of Record.
Accreditation
Courses taught at the CEA CAPA Madrid Center have been designed in conjunction with, and approved by, the University of New Haven (UNH). In addition, faculty appointments have been approved by UNH. After the successful completion of a session at the CEA CAPA Madrid Center, you will receive credit for your work from UNH. Located in Connecticut, the University of New Haven is a student-focused, comprehensive university that’s fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The agreement between CEA CAPA and UNH follows the highest standards of good practice in education abroad and satisfies the rigorous requirements of the University's institutional accreditor, making credits earned at the CEA CAPA Madrid Center easily transferable to US-accredited institutions. To learn more about UNH's service as a School of Record for CEA CAPA, please contact Academics@ceacapa.com.
Grading
Professors at the CEA CAPA Madrid Center carefully evaluate student's work and progress throughout their academic session. When calculating final grades, instructors consider written and oral exercises, homework assignments, attendance, classroom participation, and exam performance.
The following grading scale is in use for CEA CAPA center-delivered syllabi:
| DESCRIPTOR | ALPHA | NUMERIC | GPA | REQUIREMENT/EXPECTATION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outstanding (High Distinction) |
A | 93+ | 4.0 | Maximum grade: In addition to description for grade "A-", the participant shows detailed understanding of materials about which he or she can show independent analytical ability. This means the ability to question an issue from different perspectives and evaluate responses in an objective manner. |
| Excellent (Distinction) |
A- | 90 - 92.99 | 3.7 | Participant shows understanding of literature beyond the textbook/class hand-outs/class notes, and the work shows a high level of independent thought, presents informed and insightful discussion, and demonstrates a well-developed capacity for evaluation. |
| Very good (High Credit) |
B+ | 87 - 89.99 | 3.3 | Shows evidence of a capacity to generalize from the taught content, or the material in literature, or from class lectures in an informed manner. Also, the work demonstrates a capacity to integrate personal reflection into the discussion and an appreciation of a range of different perspectives. |
| Good (Credit) |
B | 83 - 86.99 | 3.0 | The work is well-organized and contains coherent or logical argumentation and presentation. |
| Good (Credit) |
B- | 80 - 82.99 | 2.7 | Participant shows understanding of literature beyond the textbook and/or notes, and there is evidence of additional reading. |
| Average (Good Pass) |
C+ | 77 - 79.99 | 2.3 | The work demonstrates a capacity to integrate research into the discussion and a critical appreciation of a range of theoretical perspectives. Also, the work demonstrates a clear understanding of the question and its theoretical implications and demonstrates evidence of additional reading. |
| Adequate (Pass) |
C | 73 - 76.99 | 2.0 | Shows clear understanding and some insight into the material in the textbook and notes, but not beyond. A deficiency in understanding the material may be compensated by evidence of independent thought and effort related to the subject matter. |
| Below Average (Borderline Pass) |
C- | 70 - 72.99 | 1.7 | Shows some understanding of the material in the textbook and notes. A deficiency in any of the above may be compensated by evidence of independent thought related to the subject matter. |
| Inadequate (Borderline Fail) |
D+ | 67 - 69.99 | 1.3 | Fails to show a clear understanding or much insight into the material in the textbook and notes. |
| Poor (Fail) |
D | 60 - 66.99 | 1.0 | Besides the above for D+, participant has not shown interest or engagement in the class work or study. |
| Poor (Fail) |
F | <60 | 0 | Shows little or no understanding of any of the material. |
Classroom and Information
- Classes are taught by faculty selected by CEA CAPA and approved by UNH.
- Periodic homework assignments and final examinations will be administered.
- Class attendance is mandatory and monitored by each professor. You may access your grades and attendance on their CEA CAPA Student Portal.
- Class size is limited to 30, allowing for personalized attention.
Amenities
Counseling Services
CEA CAPA Academic Resources
Internet Access & Wi-Fi
Academic Advising
Language Exchange with Local Students
Dining Facilities
3
Credits
Program Structure & Courses
Choose the session and course options that work best for you:
- 4-week, pre-health seminar & shadowing experience
- 8-week, pre-health seminar & shadowing experience with 1 or 2-elective courses
If selecting the 4-week option, you will take a 3-credit academic course designed specifically to complement a 60-hour hospital shadowing experience. You will begin with one week of intensive coursework, gaining critical knowledge to build the foundation for your hospital placement. Following your week in the classroom, you will start your observational time. For three weeks, you will have 5 hours of shadowing per day, Monday through Thursday: a total of 60 shadowing hours. On Fridays, you will return to the classroom to continue coursework that underpins what you’ve learned during the placement hours.
If selecting the 8-week option, you will add an additional 4-week study session that either directly precedes or immediately follows the shadowing seminar and placement program just described. In the study session portion of the 8-week program, you will choose 1 or 2 electives to round out your academic experience.
Due to the seriousness of health and medicine, it is important to understand that professionalism and maturity will be expected at all times. Please note that these placements are strictly observational: you will not be practicing medicine abroad. All participants must arrive punctually at placement hours and wear appropriate attire. Placements will not be in the city center and long commutes (which may exceed 90 minutes) should be expected. Those enrolled in the program will be required to complete pre-departure advising in order to adequately understand all expectations and prepare for their shadowing experience abroad.
All Levels Course Structure
Courses
The host institution has offered the following courses in the past. Please note that course listings will not be finalized until the start of the term.
*Courses with an asterisk indicate that the course has been associated with multiple subject areas.
Please click on the course title to view additional subject areas and detailed course information.
| Course Name | Level | Lang | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perspectives in International Healthcare: Clinical Observation Experience | 300 | En | 30 | 3 |
Interested in taking your career to the next level?
Where You'll Stay
*Housing options may change and will be confirmed on the housing application form prior to the start of the term. Below are the housing options that have been offered in the past.
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Apartment
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
All CEA CAPA students studying in Madrid have the option of living in apartments while abroad. Located in different neighborhoods in the city of Madrid, with convenient commute to different areas in the city, as well to the study center or the internship location. These apartments cater perfectly to independent, do-it-yourself type students who want to experience Madrid just as the local Madrileños do. Cook tasty tortilla española with your roommates in your kitchen, explore the personality of the neighborhood that surrounds you and make your new Spanish apartment a home.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Madrid Center: Up to 45 minutes by metro
- Universidad Antonio de Nebrija: Up to 45 minutes by metro or walking
- Universidad Carlos III de Madrid: Up to 70 minutes by metro
Meals Included
- N/A
Roommates
- 1-2 students per room
- 4-14 students per apartment
Unit Amenities
- Shared full kitchen
- Shared-single sex bathroom
- Internet access
- Washer only
- Central heating or space heaters
- Weekly cleaning services (common spaces) included
Additional Fees
This housing option may carry a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
- Private room: Supplemental fee
- Shared room: No supplemental fee
Homestay
Available:
Semester
Summer
Summer
Engage in Madrid’s colorful culture firsthand when you live in a homestay with a Spanish family or a single Señora. For the culture-seeking type whose study abroad goals include improving Spanish language skills and cultural understanding, homestays provide the opportunity to dive headfirst into the daily lives of Madrid’s locals.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Madrid Center: Up to 60 minutes by metro
- Antonio de Nebrija University: Up to 50 minutes by metro or walking
- Universidad Carlos III de Madrid: Up to 70 minutes by metro
Meals Included
- 2 meals per day, breakfast and dinner (Mon-Sun)
Roommates
- 1-2 student per room
- 1-3 students per Homestay
Unit Amenities
- Limited kitchen (microwave, a shelf in the fridge and pantry)
- Shared-co-ed bathroom
- Bedding included
- Towels included
- Internet access
- Weekly laundry service included
- Weekly cleaning service (bedroom) included
- Central heating, space heaters available
- Fans available
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Residencia A - Private Room
Available:
Semester (Subject to Availability)
Summer (Subject to Availability)
Summer (Subject to Availability)
All CEA CAPA students studying in Madrid have the option of living in a residencia while abroad. Residencias are off-campus accommodations located in the city of Madrid that house approximately 200 students. This housing option caters perfectly to students who want the peace and independence of having their own bedroom. The kitchen may be private and inside the bedroom or shared with the other students at the Residencia. Other common spaces are available. Living in a residencia will help students to immerse themselves in Spanish University life and culture and to be part of a huge University community, meeting national and international students.
Please note that Residencia A and Residencia B are not the same Residencia - they are located in different areas of the city. There may be more than one Residencia for each type. Please note that within the same Residencia rooms might not be contiguous or in the same floor and might be spread out within the Residencia.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Madrid Center: Up to 40 minutes by metro or walking
- Universidad Antonio de Nebrija: Up to 45 minutes by metro & walking
- Universidad Carlos III de Madrid: Up to 75 minutes by metro
Meals Included
- N/A
Roommates
- 1 student per room
Unit Amenities
- Shared full kitchen
- Private bathroom
- Bedding included
- Towels included
- Laundry facilities
- Central heating
- Air conditioning
- Internet access
- Cleaning service (bedroom) included
- Common spaces such as a gym, terraces and study spaces
- Heating and cooling systems (Availability may vary by season)
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Residencia B - Shared Room
Available:
Semester (Subject to Availability)
Summer (Subject to Availability)
Summer (Subject to Availability)
All CEA CAPA students studying in Madrid have the option of living in a residencia while abroad. Residencias are off-campus accommodations located in the city of Madrid that house approximately 200 students. This housing option caters perfectly to students who want to share the experience with a roommate along with a stress-free meal plan.
Living in a residencia will help students to immerse themselves in Spanish University life and culture and to be part of a huge University community, meeting national and international students.
Please note that Residencia A and Residencia B are not the same Residencia - they are located in different areas of the city. There may be more than one Residencia for each type. Please note that within the same Residencia rooms might not be contiguous or in the same floor and might be spread out within the Residencia.
Typical Commute
- CEA CAPA Madrid Center: Up to 40 minutes by metro or walking
- Universidad Antonio de Nebrija: Up to 45 minutes by metro & walking
- Universidad Carlos III de Madrid: Up to 75 minutes by metro
Meals Included
-
Full Board – breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday – Sunday (subject to a timetable)
Roommates
- 2 students per room
Unit Amenities
- Kitchenette
- Shared-single sex bathroom
- Bedding included
- Towels included
- Laundry facilities
- Central heating
- Air conditioning
- Internet access
- Cleaning service (bedroom) included
- Common spaces such as a gym, terraces and study spaces
- Heating and cooling systems (Availability may vary by season)
Additional Fees
This housing option carries a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.) as well as program length. Exact amount will be confirmed on the housing application form.
Excursions
Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You'll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we've offered in the past.
What's Included in your Program
From housing to excursions, our programs include a variety of inclusions to enhance your study abroad experience! Here are examples that may be available in Madrid. Inclusions vary by program – please contact our Enrollment and Advising team to find out what options are available for you.
- Personalized Pre-Departure Advising
- Visa & Immigration Advising
- Financial Advising
- Tuition and Registration
- Airport Pick-up
- Onsite Orientation
- City Tour
- Onsite Staff Support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Travel Medical Insurance
- International Emergency Service Support
- Welcome & Farewell Events
- Centrally Located Housing
- Wellness Activities
- Cultural Engagement
- Language Exchanges
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Excursions
- Student Clubs & Organizations
- Host Institution Services & Amenities
- Career & Re-entry Workshop
- Official Transcript(s)
Sample Calendar
The calendar for this program is coming soon; please check back later.
Sample Budget
The sample budget is unavailable at this time. Please check back later or ask your CEA CAPA Admissions Counselor/Site Specialist for a comparable program's sample budget.