All courses at the Italy Center are taught in English by faculty members with verified levels of English proficiency. Italian classes are taught in both languages to emphasize students’ speaking skills in Italian.

Our courses are academically rigorous, and students should expect a level of intensity comparable to a typical college course load. Because academics are a central pillar of the program, classes are designed not only to challenge students intellectually, but also to help them apply what they learn in meaningful, real-world contexts.

Class sizes depend on the size of each cohort, but courses are generally capped at 12 students. A minimum of 3 students is usually required for a course to run.

Yes. Several of our courses include experiential learning components that allow students to engage directly with the ideas and concepts explored in class. In addition, students may enroll in internship and service-learning courses, which provide valuable real-world experience while earning academic credit. For more information, please see our Internship and Service Learning page.

Yes. Because cultural immersion is a core part of the program, all students are required to complete at least 3 credit hours of Italian during their time in Bologna. Students with advanced Italian proficiency will complete a placement test upon arrival to ensure they are enrolled in the appropriate course level.

Yes. Course materials are included in tuition. For some courses, students may be asked to pay a refundable book deposit. This deposit is returned at the end of the course once the materials have been returned to the program.

Attendance is mandatory. Students must notify their instructor of any absence for medical or other serious reasons that may prevent them from attending classes. Travel delays, family visits, strikes, or other transportation issues do not constitute a reason for missing class, so students should not make travel plans that conflict with class meetings, site visits, or exams. Excessive absences, lateness, and missed tests or assignments will affect the final grade.

Class schedules are typically  released after students arrive in Bologna, in order to account for any last-minute changes that may occur to both students’ and faculty schedules. Schedules are built around individual course enrollments to avoid conflicts. For that reason, students should not book independent travel before arrival. The program will not reimburse any pre-booked travel that must be changed or canceled due to class meetings or mandatory events.

Classes typically meet Monday through Thursday, with occasional Friday commitments. Courses may take place in the morning, afternoon, or early evening, so schedules can vary. There is usually a 15-minute break between classes to allow time to rest or transition. Study spaces are also available for students who want to review material or work with classmates between courses.

Students who need academic accommodations should work with their home institution’s disability services office before departure. Accommodation requests should be submitted as early as possible so the Italy Center can review what support may be available abroad. Some accommodations may look different in an international setting, so early communication is important.