Summer Program in Salvador, Bahia
Salvador is one of Latin America’s most historically and culturally vibrant cities, where Afro-Brazilian traditions continue to shape everyday life through music, religion, food, dance, and the arts. Known for its colorful colonial architecture and dynamic cultural scene, Salvador offers students a uniquely immersive environment for language and cultural learning.
This seven-week immersive program gives students the opportunity to strengthen their Portuguese language skills while engaging directly with the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Through meaningful interactions with local communities, cultural activities and workshops, and firsthand exploration of Salvador’s traditions and landmarks, students gain a deeper understanding of contemporary Brazilian society while building valuable global and intercultural skills.
Program Details
This program is run through the UA Office of Study Abroad and Student Exchange and is designed for students of Portuguese. All courses count toward the Portuguese minor and provide six units. Students may take either PORT 397R or PORT 497R, depending on the on-site placement test.
Summer 2026 Program Information
Program dates: June 7- July 25, 2026 (7 weeks)
Application opening date: October 29, 2025
Application deadline: February 25, 2026
Faculty lead: Prof. Agripino Silveira
Contact: agripino@arizona.edu
Coursework
- PORT 397R (6 units) – Portuguese Language Skills & Culture
- PORT 497R (6 units) – Portuguese Language Skills & Culture
The six credit course students take in Salvador will be determined by an on-site placement exam. Classes take place in the mornings, Monday through Friday. Beyond the daily classroom time, students will participate in weekly lectures, cultural events and worshops, visit nearby cultural sites and participate in an overnight field trips. Students will be taught by Brazilian instructors at ICR, the host institution.