Italy has been a center of politics, religion and culture since ancient times. With more sites included on UNESCO's World Heritage List than any other country, this distinctive boot-shaped Mediterranean peninsula contains a fascinating physical and architectural record of the history of Western civilization. Add to this a stunning tapestry of graceful landscapes, majestic Alps, golden beaches, vibrant modern cities, enchanting islands and charming villages, and students are sure to enjoy a rich and rewarding study abroad experience.

Some of the most famous civilizations in the world have flourished and declined within Italy's borders, including the Etruscan and Roman civilizations. Christianity, already the official religion of Rome by the 4th century, only strengthened as Roman political power faltered, and became a guiding force in Italian culture. From the Middle Ages through the Renaissance, the music, poetry, literature and visual arts of Italy were heavily influenced by the Christian faith.

Nestled in a valley on the banks of the Arno River, Florence is celebrated as the cradle of the Renaissance. Home to the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell'Accademia, the illustrious names of its artistic luminaries, such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, Giotto and Medici, are whispered at every turn. Study abroad programs in the humanities, fine arts and studio arts abound. Through New York University, students also have the opportunity to participate in community service projects or undertake independent study.

Italy plays an important role in European higher education, and was influential in beginning the standardization of European higher education known as the "Bologna Process" which is now being implemented all over the continent. Italy's higher education system includes 89 universities and numerous language schools, technical universities and specialized institutes for the arts.

The University of Bologna (Università degli Studi di Bologna) is believed to be the oldest university in the Western world, and is one of the leading European universities in the sciences and humanities. Established in 1088, this university boasts many famous alumni, including Dante Alighieri and Nicolò Copernico. With more than 95,000 students, the University of Bologna also has campuses in Cesena, Forli, Ravenna and Rimini.

Italy is the world's seventh largest economy, and has a network of business, scientific and technical parks. Basic and applied research in a variety of fields, including information and communications technology, biology, biotechnology, engineering, medicine and physics, is strongly encouraged and promoted through incentives. The Technical University of Milan (Politecnico di Milano) is classified as one of the 10 best universities in Europe for advanced training and research in the sectors of engineering, architecture and industrial design.

Milan is a major global business and finance center, and one of the world's most notable destinations for fashion and design. Through Study Abroad Italy, students of all levels can pursue studies and internships in a broad range of fields, including fashion house management, industrial design, interior design, marketing, merchandising and many others. Home to the magnificent Gothic Duomo, the famous La Scala Opera House and Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, Milan is also the ideal base for excursions to Italy's spectacular Lake District, an Alpine paradise that has inspired poets, writers and artists for generations.

With a history of nearly 2,000 years, Rome is truly the Eternal City, and is unparalleled as a destination for students of art history, architecture and Italian civilization and culture. The American University of Rome and Temple University are two of the many institutions that offer programs in these areas. The Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and Vatican City are just a few of the world famous historical sites that attract thousands of students to this great city each year.

The ancient ruins of Pompeii will enthrall students of archaeology, as will Siracusa, Sicily's most important ancient Greek city. Artists, photographers and film students will find plenty of inspiration for their portfolios as they study among the breathtaking scenery of Capri, the romantic canals of Venice and the rugged terrain of the Amalfi Coast. 


Italians take great pride in their food and wine, and sampling the local specialties is an integral part of any study abroad program. Each region has its own seafood, meat and cheese dishes. Northern cuisine is characterized by a greater use of cream and rice, and risotto and polenta are regional favorites. The central region is famous for savory cured meats, such as prosciutto, virgin olive oils and rich tomato sauces. Spaghetti topped with pommarola (tomato sauce), pizza, buffalo mozzarella and ricotta all hail from the south.

Italy has a longstanding tradition and worldwide reputation in sports. Four-time winner of the World Cup and home to some of the greatest soccer teams in the world, such as AC Milan and Juventus FC, Italy excels at football, its most popular sport. Famous Italian auto manufacturers include Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini, and Italy is host to major auto racing events. Other popular sports, both competitive and recreational, include rugby, tennis, golf, cycling and a variety of water and winter sports.

From the tranquil olive groves of the Tuscan hills to the elegant cathedrals and lively piazzas of the peninsula's great cities, Italy will entice students looking for a serious education in a unique setting. Between its modern yet relaxed lifestyle, cultural, historic and artistic treasures and time-honored traditions, Italy offers international students unforgettable educational experiences.

Resources -

IIEPassport.org: www.IIEPassport.org
Study Abroad Funding: www.StudyAbroadFunding.org
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program: www.iie.org/gilman
Study in Italy (Ministry of Education, University and Research): www.study-in-italy.it
Arcadia University: www.arcadia.edu/abroad/italy