University of Salamanca
Living, Resources and Research
Why Salamanca ?
Experience vibrant student life at the University of Salamanca
Discover the city
Why you should pursue a Graduate Study at the University of Salamanca
The University of Salamanca, which in 2018 celebrated its 800th Anniversary, is the oldest University in Spain and also one of the first-born institutions of Higher Learning in Europe. In fact, the University is older than the country itself. Its historic character led to its playing a stellar role during the Renaissance, remaining to this day an academic landmark not only in Spain but also throughout Europe. In its lecture halls the University led the development of the Spanish language (which it practically created) and of international law, being a pioneer in the creation of the notion of human rights (debated at the university already in the sixteenth century) and in the creation of the Court System that limited the power of Kings .
Each year in the classrooms, libraries, and laboratories of the University students and professionals from more than sixty nationalities are brought together. Its sporting facilities are one of the best in Spain, including the best rugby field in the country. Tennis courts of easy access to students, faculty, and residents surround the university and the city.
This is a fundamentally University-focused city where close to forty thousand students live as part of a population which barely reaches one hundred and seventy thousand inhabitants.
The UNESCO World Heritage has declared the city and the University of Salamanca a Patrimony of Humanity. The city’s beauty, complemented by its size makes walking the most frequent way to get from one place to another. In comparison with other European and American cities, Salamanca offers comfortable accommodations for both students and faculty at very reasonable prices. Rapid transportation connects the city with Madrid and the Barajas international airport, which only adds to the conveniences that this exceptional city offers. Food is mostly organic and very reasonably priced, both at the Student and Professors’ Residences as well as in the many restaurants, coffee shops, and pubs that make the city a very lively place. Nightly walks and dining out are part of the deep rooted traditions of the city.
Very importantly, Salamanca is very safe.
The University of Salamanca offers housing for both students and professors at subsidized costs.
The following linkages provide information about residential living and other amenities:
Only Spanish:
- General link to Residence and Canteens Services
- Link to Residences
- Link to Canteens
- Link to Housing Services
- Accommodation in Salamanca
Other academic resources:
Where to Eat and Drink in Salamanca
Spanish hours:
Breakfast: 8:30-11, Lunch: 13:30-15:00, Dinner: 20:30-22:30
Restaurants and Typical Cuisine (unless otherwise indicated, sites are within 5 minutes walking distance from the center and all prices include VAT)
Tapas Bars and Restaurants
For tapas, we also recommend visiting Van Dyck area, a 10 min walk from the city center
Near the Train Station
Vegetarian options
Going out for a Drink
Museums
Casa Lis (Art Deco)
Museo de Salamanca (History, Culture)
Casa Museo Unamuno, University of Salamanca
Las Torres de la Clerecia, (Ecclesiastic Towers) Salamanca
Sala de Exposiciones, Santo Domingo de la Cruz, Calle, Arroyo de Santo Domingo, 18, 37008 Salamanca
Places to visit Nearby
Madrid – 2 hours (by train or bus) from Salamanca.
Valladolid – 1 hour (by train, bur, or car) from Salamanca
Avila – Around 1 hour (by train or bus) from Salamanca
Segovia – 1 hour (by train or bus) from Salamanca
La Alberca – 1 hour by car
The USAL masters has been a great opportunity to engage in dialogue, research, and conversations with peers from different backgrounds than my own. Having the chance to study in Salamanca, a historic center for knowledge and discovery was a uniquely exciting experience.
The different cultural and geopolitical perspectives that I came into contact with during my time at USAL have prepared me for anything my career has to offer. The biggest highlight of this program is the relationships I formed with professors and fellow students, people who pushed me to do my best work and grow in my academic pursuits.
Being part of the program from 2021–2023 was invaluable. I not only learned about international relations in Nationalism and Conflict Management, which is the specialization I took, but also about real life.Being Argentinian, I experienced the opportunity of living in Spain, far away from home. The faculty and staff supported and helped me to reach my academic goals. I personally reaffirmed my interest and passion for studying migration flows and was supported and guided in my thesis work by outstanding professors.
The program offers a distinctive perspective to study international processes which, undoubtedly, is invaluable if someone wishes to continue working in the field. I feel very happy and proud of this opportunity and my accomplishments. I met amazing people and I consider some of my classmates to be special friends in life. Salamanca is the perfect city to live, to study and to call home.
The MGIS in Global Business and Negotiation has transformed my academic and professional career. The program's comprehensive curriculum, taught by an international team of experts, equipped me with essential skills for navigating the global economy.
Being part of the Global Business and Negotiation track, I gained deep insights into cross-cultural negotiation strategies and practical experience through rewarding fieldwork. Studying at a world-class research university gave me unparalleled access to cutting-edge resources and international exposure, preparing me to thrive in today’s interconnected job market. This program is an invaluable stepping stone for anyone aspiring to succeed internationally.
I would like to express it has been an honor for me to have been accepted into this master’s program. I have tasked myself with absorbing as much information as I could and engaging with my professors by actively asking questions to broaden my understanding.
This academic journey has been rich and rewarding. Regarding my thesis defense committee, I have great respect for their intellect and guidance.Honestly, I did not know what to expect with a thesis defense but I received kindness, support, encouragement and great insight into my research work. I am happy to have experienced the Master in Global and International program and the charming city of Salamanca!
In this Master Program, which values students' critical thinking skills and the ability to integrate multidisciplinary knowledge, I have found more answers with the help of excellent professors and passionate classmates from different countries.
My favourite is that in this 800-year-old university, we experienced different cultural exchanges and free academic communication. Of course, there are so many unique buildings, beautiful scenery, and delicious Spanish food that it is a wonderful learning journey!
My experience in the MGIS program at USAL was characterized not only by the historic setting in the city of Salamanca but also by the sheer range of political perspectives, international political theories, and practical case studies that were presented in each course.
The MGIS program offers insights and knowledge of the evolving global sphere.
My time in the Global Studies Program and in Salamanca has been amazing. Living with Spanish students while spending my days as part of a tight-knit group of peers and professors from across the world made this graduate program a truly unique experience
After two years in Salamanca's vibrant academic community, I've gained a deep understanding of the dynamics shaping nations, conflicts, and transnational issues. One of the highlights of this academic adventure was the opportunity to closely examine Brazil's intricate religious and political landscape.
Recently, I had the honor of defending my thesis, "The Soft Echoes of Faith: Religious Soft Power and Foreign Policy in Bolsonaro's Brazil." My heartfelt thanks go to my professors, the academic community for their support, and, of course, my classmates for making these two years an unforgettable experience.
