05/03/2025

The Faculty of Educational Sciences signs a double degree agreement with Westcliff University

Starting from the 2025-2026 academic year, students enrolled in the Pre-Primary and Primary Education degree programmes at UIC Barcelona will have the opportunity to spend their fourth year at Westcliff University, in California, thus earning a double degree with the American university.

This new agreement led by the International Relations Service Team enables students to enhance their international experience and transfer credits earned at both Westcliff and UIC Barcelona, aiming for a double degree in Pre-Primary and Primary Education in just four years “We are delighted to offer this exceptional opportunity for our students to spend a full year in California,” said Enric Vidal, dean of the UIC Barcelona Faculty of Education.

As a result, students will be able to earn degrees from both universities within four years, the same duration as if they were to complete their studies exclusively at UIC Barcelona.

During a visit to the Sant Cugat campus to formalise the agreement, Julie Ciancio, dean of Global Engagement at Westcliff University, reaffirmed her commitment to UIC Barcelona: “Having an international experience is truly enriching, and the chance to explore different educational systems can provide valuable insights,” she remarked.

The curriculum at Westcliff University places a strong emphasis on educational technology, offering courses in computational thinking and AI-driven transformation strategies. A notable feature of Westcliff’s approach is its commitment to online education, which allows students to access a broad range of academic resources remotely.

Additionally, Westcliff offers UIC Barcelona students the opportunity to undertake placements at schools partnered with the American university. There is also the possibility of completing paid extracurricular placements on campus. Graduates of the Pre-Primary Education programme who complete their training will be eligible to work as preschool teachers in the United States at institutions affiliated with this Californian university.

Between San Diego and Los Angeles

Westcliff University is based in Irvine, California, located between Los Angeles and San Diego. Since its founding in 1993, the university has focused on offering programmes in business and education. Its College of Education aims to prepare skilled educators, scholars, and researchers who contribute to responsible learning communities, utilising innovative approaches and the effective use of technology.

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