Overview

The Portuguese programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides students with a deep understanding of the language, literature, and diverse cultures of the Lusophone world. This interdisciplinary degree covers regions spanning from Portugal and Brazil to Lusophone Africa and parts of Asia. Students develop high-level written and spoken competence while exploring the historical and contemporary significance of these global communities.

Why Portuguese at University of California, Santa Barbara?

The university is home to The Center for Portuguese Studies, a dedicated hub that sponsors specialised activities and student initiatives related to the Portuguese-speaking world. This unique resource enhances the academic experience by providing a focal point for cultural engagement and research. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to integrate their studies with other fields such as Global Studies, History, or Sociology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of Lusophone cultures and history. Modules may include:

Artistic and Interdisciplinary Approaches to Portuguese Language Countries
Nature and Environment in Brazilian Culture and Literature
Postcolonial Lusophone Africa
Brazilian Cinema
Portuguese Cinema
Luso-Afro-Brazilian Studies

Careers with Portuguese

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of international and domestic career paths that require linguistic expertise and cultural intelligence. The programme provides a strong foundation for roles in the Foreign Service, international relations, and various nonprofit organisations. Many students also pursue opportunities in K-12 education or continue their academic journey in law and graduate studies.

The skills acquired during the programme are highly transferable to sectors such as global business and diplomacy. By focusing on a language spoken across four continents, graduates can access diverse markets and professional networks. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree ensures that students are well-equipped for the complexities of the modern global workforce.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Artistic and Interdisciplinary Approaches to Portuguese Language Countries

Nature and Environment in Brazilian Culture and Literature

Postcolonial Lusophone Africa

Brazilian Cinema

Portuguese Cinema

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Iberian studies View 703 other Bachelors in Iberian studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The University of California sets slightly different criteria for applicants who are not California residents. If you are an out-of-state applicant, you must meet the same admission requirements as a California resident student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Portuguese.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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