Brazil is one of the largest countries in the world, and for those seeking hands-on academics and a vibrant experience full of culture and fun, it’s hard to beat it! Notre Dame Global offers study abroad programs in São Paulo during the semester and summer. São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil, the epicenter of the Brazilian economy, and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. It is located in the center of Brazil and easily accessible to popular tourist destinations in the country such as Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguacu, or Salvador.In these programs, students can take courses in Portuguese, and in some cases, in English, on a range of academic disciplines. Currently, our program offerings in Brazil include:
Semester Programs
São Paulo FGV
Students accepted to the São Paulo business track program will study at Fundacao Getulio Vargas, FGV EAESP, which is the most prestigious, AACSB-accredited business school in the country. Students may take courses in Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Management, the Brazilian and Global Economy, and more – all taught in English. No Portuguese language proficiency is required to study abroad at FGV, but students can take an intensive Portuguese course to satisfy their language requirement while in São Paulo.
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São Paulo PUC
Students with Portuguese proficiency looking for an immersive experience can apply to the São Paulo PUC, a liberal arts track. Students will take courses as an exchange student at either the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo (PUC-SP) or the University of São Paulo (USP). Both campuses offer students the opportunity to be part of vibrant student communities, and all will be invited to events and excursions organized by Notre Dame São Paulo during their time abroad.
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Summer Programs
Brazil Summer: Race & Immigration Studies
In this study abroad program, students will develop an in-depth understanding of the social, ethnic, and cultural mosaic that makes up Brazil. History, architecture, arts, language, movies, and sports will come together to highlight some of the most vibrant and dynamic societal aspects of this fascinating South American country. However, the course will also emphasize the social conflicts and struggles that lie behind the stereotypical images of a “touristic” Brazil.
Studies on race, gender, and social inequality will debunk the notion that Brazil is a “racial democracy” or “racial paradise” and will reveal important aspects of the country’s quest for social justice, human dignity, and inclusion. By the end of the course, students will be able to elaborate sophisticated reflections on Brazilian contemporary society through an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses diverse fields in Humanities and Social Sciences. This program takes place in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
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Global Professional Experience
Notre Dame Global offers undergraduate students an international experiential learning opportunity to experience firsthand within an immersive environment how businesses and organizations operate in selected locations throughout the world. The Global Professional Experience Program places students with selected global and local companies and organizations in Asia (China, India, and Japan), Europe (Greece and the United Kingdom), and Latin America (Brazil and Chile).
This seven-week program includes three main components:
- A one-credit course offers an exploration of historic, social, and economic dimensions related to each of the program’s regions, in addition to providing a forum to reflect upon new international perspectives, inter-cultural knowledge, collaborative skills, integrative competencies, and career discernment.
- A one-week on-site orientation provided by Notre Dame's global locations and selected service providers. The on-site orientation helps students better understand the local cultures and includes cultural excursions and basic language training.
- A six-week placement within a business or organization that will provide students with professional experiences related to their academic and professional interests. Host businesses and organizations include media, startups, technology, healthcare, finance, NGOs, and think tanks, among other sectors.
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