Area studies typically examine the development of a particular population or region. While other, similar interdisciplinary studies, such as gender, disability, and ethnic, may have some part in course discussions, these are not considered area studies.

Spain, officially the Kingdom of Spain, is a sovereign state and a member state of the European Union. It is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. Spanish universities regulate access to their degrees, and they fix the academic fees. They can also offer unofficial postgraduate degrees. Madrid has the largest number of bars per capita of any European city and a very active nightlife.

A certificate is proof of qualification of a certain set of skills. Students who obtain a certificate have completed educational requirements and tests. Through completion, they become ready to pursue a degree or diploma, or to head into the professional world in their field of expertise.