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Created by the Parliament of Andaluc¨ªa in July 1993, the University of Almer¨ªa (UAL) campus is located six kilometres from the large town of Almer¨ªa (population: 50,000-249,999) on the south-eastern coast of Andaluc¨ªa.

The aim of this public university is to activate social change, through economic, cultural and social development of Almer¨ªan society, delivering the teaching staff and methods that best fit its historical, economical, and cultural profile.

There are eight teaching colleges: health sciences, economics and business studies, natural sciences, education, law, experimental science, humanities and psychology. UAL¡¯s research work is linked largely to its financial milieu, with a particular focus on solar energy, agriculture and water management.

Some 5 per cent of the student body is made up of international students. All of them are offered a 60-hour Spanish language course before they begin their studies.

The University of Almer¨ªa¡¯s Polyphonic Choir was founded in 1994 and is made up of university students, led by Jos¨¦ Luis Mart¨ªnez (previously director of Almer¨ªa¡¯s V¨ªrgen del Mar Choir). Studying, interpreting and diffusing polyphonic choral music of all styles and eras, the choir also takes part in musical outreach programs in conjunction with Almer¨ªa City Council, Almer¨ªa Province Council, and the Ministry of Culture of Andaluc¨ªa. The choir travels all over Spain to perform and has featured in several television shows, as well as having its own CD.

One of the big draws of UAL is its location ¨C it lies below a Moorish fortress, the Alcazaba, and at the foot of a mountain range. The city of Almer¨ªa itself boasts a bustling port and an historic old town. The semi-arid desert climate means it receives the most sunshine (almost 3000 hours annually) and the least rainfall in Europe. There are several idyllic beaches, natural parks and typical Andaluc¨ªan villages to visit in the region.