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Why Choose an English-Taught Master’s at UAB?
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) is one of Spain’s top public universities, consistently ranking among the best in Europe. For international students seeking high-quality education in English, UAB offers a growing portfolio of master’s programs taught entirely in English. These programs span fields like economics, data science, biosciences, and political science, combining academic rigor with a vibrant campus life near Barcelona. Whether you aim to pursue research or advance your career, an English-taught master’s at UAB provides a global perspective and a degree recognized worldwide.
List of English-Taught Master’s Programs at UAB (2024-2025)
Below is the comprehensive list of official master’s degrees taught in English at UAB. Note that some programs may require a minimum B2 or C1 level of English proficiency.
| Program Name | Duration | Faculty/School |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s in Advanced English Studies | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Arts & Humanities |
| Master’s in Applied Linguistics and Language Acquisition in Multilingual Contexts | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Arts & Humanities |
| Master’s in Bioinformatics | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Biosciences |
| Master’s in Computational and Applied Mathematics | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Sciences |
| Master’s in Computer Vision | 1 year (60 ECTS) | School of Engineering |
| Master’s in Data Science | 1 year (60 ECTS) | School of Engineering |
| Master’s in Economics and Business Administration | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Economics and Business |
| Master’s in European Integration | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Political Science and Sociology |
| Master’s in High Energy Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Sciences |
| Master’s in International Relations | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Political Science and Sociology |
| Master’s in Interuniversity Master in Philosophy of Science | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Philosophy |
| Master’s in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Sciences |
| Master’s in Political Science | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Political Science and Sociology |
| Master’s in Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Sciences |
| Master’s in Research and Innovation in Computer Science | 1 year (60 ECTS) | School of Engineering |
| Master’s in Social and Cultural Anthropology | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Arts & Humanities |
| Master’s in Translational Biomedical Research | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Medicine |
| Master’s in Transfusion Medicine and Advanced Cell Therapies | 1 year (60 ECTS) | Faculty of Medicine |
Some programs may be offered jointly with other universities or have a bilingual format (English and Spanish). Always verify the language of instruction on the official UAB master’s page.
Admission Requirements for English-Taught Master’s Programs
To apply for an English-taught master’s at UAB, you generally need:
- A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+, or Cambridge C1). Some programs accept a B2 level.
- Academic transcripts and a CV.
- A motivation letter and, for some programs, letters of recommendation.
- Specific prerequisites depending on the field (e.g., quantitative background for Data Science).
English Language Requirements: What Level Do You Need?
Most English-taught master’s at UAB require at least a B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Competitive programs like Data Science or Economics may ask for C1. Exemptions are possible if your bachelor’s was taught in English. Check each program’s specific page for details.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition for EU students is approximately €27.67 per credit (2024-25), so a 60 ECTS master’s costs around €1,660. Non-EU students pay higher fees, typically €4,500–€6,000 per year depending on the program. Additional costs include administrative fees (around €300) and health insurance if required.
Scholarships for International Students
- UAB International Scholarships: Partial tuition waivers for outstanding non-EU students.
- Erasmus+ and bilateral agreements: For EU students.
- Catalan Government grants (AGAUR): For research-oriented master’s.
- Spanish Ministry of Education scholarships: For students with financial need.
How to Apply Step by Step
- Check the program’s official page on UAB’s website for specific requirements and deadlines.
- Prepare your documents: Transcripts, degree certificate, CV, motivation letter, language certificate, and passport copy.
- Submit your application online through the UAB application portal (usually open from January to June for fall intake).
- Pay the application fee (around €30.21 for EU, €60 for non-EU).
- Wait for the admission decision (4-8 weeks).
- If accepted, apply for a student visa (non-EU students) at the Spanish consulate in your country.
What Makes UAB’s English-Taught Master’s Stand Out?
UAB is known for its strong research output and international environment. Many programs offer internships with leading companies in Barcelona, a hub for tech, biotech, and international organizations. The campus, located in Bellaterra, is a self-contained university city with modern facilities, libraries, and sports centers. Plus, Barcelona offers a high quality of life, Mediterranean climate, and diverse culture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Applying too late: Many programs have limited spots and early deadlines.
- Submitting incomplete documents: Double-check required items.
- Underestimating language requirements: If your English level is borderline, consider retaking the test.
- Ignoring program-specific prerequisites: For example, Data Science expects strong math skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are all master’s programs at UAB taught in English?
No, only a selection of official master’s programs are taught entirely in English. Many others are in Catalan or Spanish. The list above includes only those with full English instruction.
Can I work while studying on a student visa?
Yes, international students with a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays, provided the work is compatible with studies.
Is there a pre-master’s or foundation year?
UAB does not offer a foundation year specifically for master’s. However, some students take individual courses or a postgraduate diploma to meet prerequisites.
What is the campus like?
UAB’s main campus is in Bellaterra, about 20 minutes from Barcelona by train. It has a green, spacious environment with all amenities: libraries, restaurants, sports facilities, and student housing.
Do I need to know Spanish or Catalan?
No, for English-taught programs, classes and exams are in English. However, learning basic Spanish can help with daily life and socializing.
How do I find accommodation?
UAB offers limited on-campus housing (Vila Universitària). Many students rent private apartments in nearby towns like Cerdanyola, Sant Cugat, or Barcelona city. Start looking early.
Your Next Steps: Making Your Application Stand Out
To increase your chances of admission, tailor your motivation letter to the specific program, highlight relevant experience, and secure strong recommendation letters. If you have time, consider taking online courses to strengthen your background. Finally, apply early and keep track of deadlines. UAB’s English-taught master’s programs are competitive, but with careful preparation, you can secure a spot at this prestigious university.
Thanks for compiling this. Are there any scholarships specifically for international students in these English-taught master’s programs?
Yes, UAB offers some scholarships for international students, such as the UAB International Master’s Scholarships. You can also look into external funding from foundations or your home country. Check the UAB grants page for details.
I noticed the Master’s in European Integration is taught in English. Is that program also available in Spanish, or is it fully English?
The Master’s in European Integration is fully taught in English, as indicated in the list. Always verify on the official page, but it’s designed for an international cohort.
I’m considering the Master’s in Translational Biomedical Research. Do you know if the program includes a lab internship or is it mostly coursework?
The program typically includes a research project or internship, often in a lab, as it’s research-oriented. For exact structure, see the curriculum on the UAB master’s page.
Great list! I’m interested in the Master’s in Data Science. Does it require a background in computer science, or would a degree in mathematics be sufficient?
A degree in mathematics should be sufficient, as the program values strong quantitative skills. However, check the specific prerequisites on the UAB website, as some programming knowledge may be expected.