Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México, ITAM – Mexico City, Mexico
Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México or ITAM dates back to 1946. The industrialist, Raúl Bailleres founded ITAM as a non-profit private university. Its commitment to academic excellence has contributed to the high rankings ITAM continues to receive within both North America and internationally.
Location
From the Spanish invasion in 1519, which forever altered nearly 3,000 years of civilization, including that of the remarkable Aztec culture, México has been a country of change and contrasts. Sharing its northern border with the United States, México has volcanoes and mile-long beaches, crowded cities and ancient ruins, opulent resorts and shantytowns.
If México is a country of contrasts, México City, with one of the largest urban populations in the world, is a city of extremes. With skyscrapers, colonial palaces and Diego Rivera’s huge murals, México City promises to stimulate every interest.
Approximate Term Dates
Fall Term: Late September to late December
Winter Term: Early January to late March
Summer Term: Early July to late September
For more information on term dates, refer to the following Web site: www.itam.mx
Academic Information
ITAM is divided into 5 departments: Administration and Accounting; Economics, Law and Social Science; General and International Studies; Mathematics, Actuarial Science and Statistics; Computer Science and Engineering.
Credit Equivalency
4 ITAM courses = 12 SSB credits
5 ITAM courses = 15 SSB credits
Size of Class/Features
With less than 30 students, the average class size at ITAM is small.
Language
Most classes are conducted in Spanish, although English texts are commonly in use and there are some classes taught in English. During the first six weeks of the ITAM fall and spring semesters, exchange students can take Spanish language courses to supplement their studies. These courses are free of charge.
Although many people, particularly youth, are eager to practice their English, it should not be assumed that one could successfully integrate into Mexican society speaking only English. Investing in a Spanish phrasebook or language course is advisable.
Computer Facilities
Universities in México are very advanced in the use of technology, both inside and out of the classroom. ITAM is no exception. The Computer Centre develops its own software and gives students access to more than 500 databases. At both campuses there are several PC labs.
The online library service allows students to browse the extensive library collection with ease. Copy services and bookstores are located on both campuses. The Río Hondo campus also has a modern sporting facility.
Type/Availability of Accommodation
The Academic Exchange Office at ITAM assists in the search for off-campus housing (ITAM does not have residences). Ultimately, however, negotiation of accommodation arrangements is between the exchange student and landlord.
For all types of accommodation, two month’s rent will need to be paid prior to the move-in date (first month’s rent and security deposit). Costs range from US$200 for rooms in shared apartments to US$650 for fully furnished two bedroom apartments with maid service.
Accommodation Request forms can be downloaded from the following Web site: www.itam.mx
Health Insurance
Health Insurance is mandatory for all exchange students. This should be taken care of before participating on the exchange term.
Visa Information
For visa information contact the Mexican Consulate General at:
Consul General: Manuel Uribe Castañeda
Deputy Consul: Miguel Angel Cáseres
199 Bay Street, Suite 4440, Commerce Court West, Toronto, ON, M5L 1E9
Tel: 416-368-2875, Fax: 416-368-8342
Website: www.consulmex.com, www.embamexcan.com (Embassy Web site)
Further Research
For more information about this partnership school, see the exchange literature available in the Schulich Exchange Reference Library located in room W263 SSB or visit the school’s Web site at: www.itam.mx