Spend 11 weeks exploring the beauty of Cinque Terre in La Spezia with the Florence University of the Arts Cinque Terre Riviera (FUA Riviera)! SAI Students select from a wide range of elective course offerings for a total of 12 - 15 US credits. In addition to historically popular FUA courses, students can choose from courses that focus on the Riviera region such as Harbors and Trade, Secrets of the Sea, and Riviera Sketchbook.
Application open until: May 15, 2026
Application Requirements
Complete online application
Personal statement (300-500 words)
Transcript
Passport scan (photo & signature page)
Italian privacy consent form
Highlights
- Experience authentic Italian coastal life
- Select from courses that focus on the region and major port city location
- No student visa requirement
Program Dates
September 28 – December 12, 2026
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 18+
Academic Year: High school graduate or above.
* contact SAI if you don’t meet requirements
Cumulative GPA:* 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale)
English Language:* Non-native English language speakers must submit TOEFL: 500+ (paper-based), IELTS: 5+, OOPT: 50+, or equivalent.
Business | Marketing
Fine Arts | Painting and Drawing
Food and Wine Studies | Dietetics and Nutrition
Food and Wine Studies | Food and Culture
Global Studies | Happiness Sciences
Global Studies | Sustainable Development
Interior Design, Environmental Architecture, and Sustainability | Architectural Studies
Journalism, Communication, and Publishing | Creative Advertising
Liberal Arts | Art History
Liberal Arts | History
Liberal Arts | Psychology
Life Studies and Human Sciences | Health Humanities
Sciences and Mathematics | Biology
Sport and Health Sciences | Sport Sciences
The course dives into the world of maritime commerce. Students explore how harbors have served as catalysts for cultural exchange and economic prosperity throughout history, from the rise of ancient port cities to the hubs of todays globalized world. The course examines the impact of the spice trade, the Industrial Revolution, and containerization on global trade patterns. Students will analyze the challenges and opportunities presented by free trade agreements, environmental sustainability, international law, and emerging technologies like automation and e-commerce. Through lectures, discussions, case studies, and in-class activities, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex forces shaping international trade and the vital role of harbors in our interconnected world.
20th and 21st century development has witnessed the evolution and revolution in business communication. The birth of the web was the inspiration that led to a different form of interaction and engagement between companies and customers, such as a growing customer participation in the creation and development of the business image. This course features web marketing that is based on practices and principles applicable to all sectors and is also suitable for the small and medium-sized enterprises who were previously cut off from traditional mass media promotion for budget reasons. The web will be considered beyond the concept of sites and focus substantially on the social networks. The social aspect of marketing communication online is a striking feature of the web today, where engagement and conversations occur not only between customers but also between companies and customers to stimulate the most powerful communication tool: word of mouth. Prerequisites: Introduction to Marketing.
This course is designed to take full advantage of the students unique experiences living and studying in the Riviera of Liguria. With on-site inspiration channeled into artistic creativity, students will draw on location at sites of historical significance and visual interest, ranging from architectural masterpieces, landscape vistas, multilayered streets, gardens, street markets, and fountains. Course topics will document the rich history of how the Gulf of Poets and its environs have attracted and inspired visiting artists over the centuries. Students will develop individual sketchbooks with the aim of building up source material for future projects. The classroom approach of this course is based on experiencing the city as the academic space for learning and engagement. Classes are not held in a traditional, frontal-style setting; each lesson is carefully mapped for curricular content and featured locations: lectures, observations, exercises, analysis, and reflections on presented topics are held in relevant sites that are accounted for in the academic planning, syllabus, and related course material. Coursework and submissions will be regularly assessed on the course website through daily assignments in addition to exams, papers, and projects. Learning through the on-site classroom approach fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural environment of the city and how it is related to the subject of study represented by the course, and allows the overall experience to contribute to the students academic and personal enrichment.
Studies have shown that following the Mediterranean diet has many health benefits, especially when combined with exercise. This course includes lectures on various forms of physical and lifestyle activities and an overview of their respective health benefits. Lectures will also include visits to athletic centers within the local community and the nutritional aspects of the Mediterranean diet, and particularly the Italian culinary tradition. Food and wine tastings, and physical activity are integral components of the course and will result in the creation of a customized exercise and nutritional program by the student. This course also features a field learning component in relevant Italian locations to supplement and enrich academic topics.
This course is targeted towards students with an interest in Italian food traditions, society, and culture. The main focus consists of what is generally defined as “made in Italy” culture and style in post-war Italy. Also covered are the relationships between Italian traditions, folklore and contemporary Italian society drawing from examples including festivals, food, tourism, and economy, and the influence of foreign civilizations. Students will be asked to regard the subject of food outside of the context of ingredients and the procedures used to create a dish; we will instead examine a large scale context in which food is either featured as a main component or an integral element in cultural situations. Thus the student is asked first and foremost to observe the presented material across an anthropologic lens that roves over the entire Italian peninsula. Lectures will be complemented by student cooking labs and/or tastings.
This course is targeted towards students with an interest in Italian food traditions, society, and culture. The main focus consists of what is generally defined as “made in Italy” culture and style in post-war Italy. Also covered are the relationships between Italian traditions, folklore and contemporary Italian society drawing from examples including festivals, food, tourism, and economy, and the influence of foreign civilizations. Students will be asked to regard the subject of food outside of the context of ingredients and the procedures used to create a dish; we will instead examine a large scale context in which food is either featured as a main component or an integral element in cultural situations. Thus the student is asked first and foremost to observe the presented material across an anthropologic lens that roves over the entire Italian peninsula. Lectures will be complemented by student cooking labs and/or tastings.
Studies have shown that following the Mediterranean diet has many health benefits, especially when combined with exercise. This course includes lectures on various forms of physical and lifestyle activities and an overview of their respective health benefits. Lectures will also include visits to athletic centers within the local community and the nutritional aspects of the Mediterranean diet, and particularly the Italian culinary tradition. Food and wine tastings, and physical activity are integral components of the course and will result in the creation of a customized exercise and nutritional program by the student. This course also features a field learning component in relevant Italian locations to supplement and enrich academic topics.
The course focuses on individual skills to succeed in social and personal life: it provides an introduction to the science of happiness, integrating findings from positive psychology, behavioral genetics, neurosciences and behavioral economics. The course also offers a set of tools and techniques to transform problems into learning and to develop and apply strategies and skills that promote an all-round progress in a person’s psychological, physical and social life.
The course dives into the world of maritime commerce. Students explore how harbors have served as catalysts for cultural exchange and economic prosperity throughout history, from the rise of ancient port cities to the hubs of todays globalized world. The course examines the impact of the spice trade, the Industrial Revolution, and containerization on global trade patterns. Students will analyze the challenges and opportunities presented by free trade agreements, environmental sustainability, international law, and emerging technologies like automation and e-commerce. Through lectures, discussions, case studies, and in-class activities, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex forces shaping international trade and the vital role of harbors in our interconnected world.
This immersive course focuses on the Art Nouveau movement, known as Liberty style in Italy. Through a series of meaningful walks, students will delve into the defining characteristics of Liberty buildings, from the elegant curves and organic forms to the intricate details like wrought ironwork and stained glass. Each lesson will focus on a distinct aspect of Liberty design, namely the use of floral, female, and natural motifs, the artistry of materials and mosaics, and the influence of the movement on urban planning and community-making. Students will analyze the craftsmanship and symbolism embedded in these architectural illustrations. Beyond aesthetics, the course explores the social and cultural context that shaped and was shaped by this movement. The approach of this course is based on experiencing the city as the academic space for learning and engagement. Classes are not held in a traditional, frontal-style setting; each lesson is carefully mapped for curricular content and featured locations: lectures, observations, exercises, analysis, and reflections on presented topics are held in relevant sites that are accounted for in the academic planning, syllabus, and related course material. Coursework and submissions will be regularly assessed on the MyFUA platform through daily assignments in addition to exams, papers, and projects. Learning through the on-site classroom approach fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural environment and how it is related to the subject of study represented by the course, and allows the overall experience to contribute to the students’ academic and personal enrichment.
20th and 21st century development has witnessed the evolution and revolution in business communication. The birth of the web was the inspiration that led to a different form of interaction and engagement between companies and customers, such as a growing customer participation in the creation and development of the business image. This course features web marketing that is based on practices and principles applicable to all sectors and is also suitable for the small and medium-sized enterprises who were previously cut off from traditional mass media promotion for budget reasons. The web will be considered beyond the concept of sites and focus substantially on the social networks. The social aspect of marketing communication online is a striking feature of the web today, where engagement and conversations occur not only between customers but also between companies and customers to stimulate the most powerful communication tool: word of mouth. Prerequisites: Introduction to Marketing.
This immersive course focuses on the Art Nouveau movement, known as Liberty style in Italy. Through a series of meaningful walks, students will delve into the defining characteristics of Liberty buildings, from the elegant curves and organic forms to the intricate details like wrought ironwork and stained glass. Each lesson will focus on a distinct aspect of Liberty design, namely the use of floral, female, and natural motifs, the artistry of materials and mosaics, and the influence of the movement on urban planning and community-making. Students will analyze the craftsmanship and symbolism embedded in these architectural illustrations. Beyond aesthetics, the course explores the social and cultural context that shaped and was shaped by this movement. The approach of this course is based on experiencing the city as the academic space for learning and engagement. Classes are not held in a traditional, frontal-style setting; each lesson is carefully mapped for curricular content and featured locations: lectures, observations, exercises, analysis, and reflections on presented topics are held in relevant sites that are accounted for in the academic planning, syllabus, and related course material. Coursework and submissions will be regularly assessed on the MyFUA platform through daily assignments in addition to exams, papers, and projects. Learning through the on-site classroom approach fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural environment and how it is related to the subject of study represented by the course, and allows the overall experience to contribute to the students’ academic and personal enrichment.
The course dives into the world of maritime commerce. Students explore how harbors have served as catalysts for cultural exchange and economic prosperity throughout history, from the rise of ancient port cities to the hubs of todays globalized world. The course examines the impact of the spice trade, the Industrial Revolution, and containerization on global trade patterns. Students will analyze the challenges and opportunities presented by free trade agreements, environmental sustainability, international law, and emerging technologies like automation and e-commerce. Through lectures, discussions, case studies, and in-class activities, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex forces shaping international trade and the vital role of harbors in our interconnected world.
A background in Psychology or Social Psychology recommended.
Over the recent decades, globalization has brought about a phenomenon that has increasingly been recognized by both psychologists and anthropologists as a viable field of research: Culture Shock. Also referred to as “culture fatigue” or “role shock,” culture shock refers to the reactions of travelers during their first few months in a foreign country. This course presents culture shock within the context of cross-cultural psychology and places a specific emphasis on the students’ own experiences as they live and study in a foreign country. Topics explored will include the role of communication and communication norms, cultural variables, taboos and rituals, and cultural adjustment.* Global Leaders Certificate Program approved course *
Social Psychology is a scientific discipline that explores how the individual is influenced by social contexts. Students will learn to identify how social, environmental, and cognitive factors shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. The course covers theories about attraction, aggression, conformity, and pro-social behavior. As this course is taught to Americans living in Italy, students will have the advantage of observing and testing theories learned in class in a foreign environment. In this sense the classroom will become the laboratory for this class.
“We see the world as we do, not because that is the way it is, but because we have these ways of seeing” (Wittgenstein). Social psychology is a scientific discipline that explores how the individual is influenced by social contexts. Students will learn to identify how social, environmental, and cognitive factors shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. The course covers theories regarding attraction, aggression, conformity, and pro-social behavior. As this course is taught in Italy, students will have the advantage of observing and testing theories learned in class in a foreign environment.
This course focuses on individual skills to succeed in social and personal life. It provides an introduction to the science of happiness, integrating findings from positive psychology, behavioral genetics, neurosciences, and behavioral economics. The course offers a set of tools and techniques to transform problems into learning opportunities and to develop and apply strategies and skills that promote overall progress in a person’s psychological, physical, and social well-being.
This course explores the pillars and wonders of marine biology and examines the oceans physical and chemical properties. The aim is that of uncovering the diverse life forms that thrive there, while investigating key marine beings and their adaptations for survival. The course assesses the vital role marine species play for the environment, together with the complex interactions between predators, prey, and decomposers. Students analyze the unique sensory systems and behaviors exhibited by marine animals, allowing them to navigate their ecosystem, communicate, and reproduce. Furthermore, the course critically considers human impacts on the ocean and discusses strategies for sustainable resource management.
Studies have shown that following the Mediterranean diet has many health benefits, especially when combined with exercise. This course includes lectures on various forms of physical and lifestyle activities and an overview of their respective health benefits. Lectures will also include visits to athletic centers within the local community and the nutritional aspects of the Mediterranean diet, and particularly the Italian culinary tradition. Food and wine tastings, and physical activity are integral components of the course and will result in the creation of a customized exercise and nutritional program by the student. This course also features a field learning component in relevant Italian locations to supplement and enrich academic topics.
Program Structure & Course Registration
Students enrolled in the 11 week semester enroll in 11 week semester long courses. Students are required to be enrolled in courses the entire program duration.
SAI students complete their course registration directly with FUA through the FUA student portal. Upon confirming enrollment in the SAI program at FUA, students receive information for creating their FUA student portal and selecting their classes. Note: All courses must meet the minimum enrollment of 12 students to run; therefore, all registrations require selection of an alternate course for each primary course choice.
FUA registration begins months ahead of the application deadline. Courses will fill on a rolling basis.
Experiential Learning
Many FUA courses incorporate experiential learning components, involving hands-on projects. Courses which include experiential learning components will include this information in the course details & syllabus. Students will work & collaborate within the FUA Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI) to fulfill various projects & tasks as part of their coursework. These practical assignments take place on-site and will occur outside of the regular class sessions, with varying shifts assigned from Monday to Friday (occasional weekend shifts possible), including the possibility of later evening hours.
| Pre-Departure Calendar | |
|---|---|
| May 15 2026 |
Application Closes |
| Within 1 week of acceptance |
SAI Deposits Due $500 Enrollment Deposit (applied toward program fee) $300 Security Deposit (refundable) |
| May 1 2026 |
50% of Total Program Fee Due Students who are accepted and submit SAI deposits after this date will have an amended pay schedule. 50% of the Program Fee will be due within 5 business days, based on the deposit payment date. |
| May 15 2026 |
Financial Aid Agreement & Financial Aid Program Deposit Deadline Students wishing to utilize SAI financial aid payment deferment must complete the Financial Aid Agreement form and submit the Financial Aid Program Deposit by this date. Students whose deposit payment date is on or after this date will have a deadline of 5 days after the deposit. |
| May 29 2026 |
Enrollment Closes Students must complete their enrollment, including paying deposits, by this date. |
| June 1 2026 |
SAI Scholarship Application Deadline Students wishing to apply for a SAI scholarship must have all application items submitted by 11:59pm Pacific Time on this date. |
| June 15 2026 |
SAI Financial Aid Verification Deadline Students wishing to defer payment until financial aid disbursement must submit the financial aid verification form to SAI by this date. |
| July 1 2026 |
Balance of Total Program Fee Due (For students utilizing SAI financial aid payment deferment, any balance not covered by aid is due). |
| On-Site Calendar | |
|---|---|
| September 28 2026 |
Arrival & Housing Check-in Students arrive at Aeroporto di Pisa (PSA). SAI airport pickup is provided between 9:00am and 6:00pm, and students are transferred to La Spezia and their SAI housing. |
| September 29 2026 |
Orientation Mandatory orientation introduces students to their city while covering safety, policies, housing, and culture. |
| September 30 2026 |
FUA Riviera 11 Week Semester Classes Begin |
| November 4 – 10 2026 |
Midterm Exam Week |
| December 9 – 11 2026 |
Final Exams |
| December 11 2026 |
FUA Riviera 11 Week Semester Classes End |
| December 12 2026 |
Program End & Housing Check-out Students must move out of SAI housing by 10:00am to return home or pursue independent travel. |
| SAI Program Fees* | USD |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $120 |
| Security Deposit Refundable at the end of the term. |
$300 |
| Program Fee: 11 Week Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
Coming soon |
| Optional / Additional Fees: | |
| Optional Private Room Housing Supplement Private occupancy bedroom in a shared apartment, with a shared bathroom. |
Coming soon |
| Additional Course Credits Fee for enrollment over 15 credits. |
$550 / credit |
| Add-on Non-Credit and Field Learning Courses Fees vary and are paid directly to FUA. |
Contact SAI |
| International Mailing Supplement When applicable, students are charged an international mailing supplement to ensure visa paperwork arrives in a timely manner. |
$90 |
*prices are subject to change
Please see SAI Policies for SAI cancellation & withdrawal deadlines.
Note: certain SAI-affiliated US universities require specific payment arrangements. These may require that some fees are paid by the student directly to SAI, and other fees are paid to SAI by the affiliated university on behalf of the student. If you attend a SAI-affiliated university please contact your study abroad office or speak with your SAI Admissions Counselor for details.
| Budget | Low Est. | High Est. |
|---|---|---|
| Airfare to/from Pisa |
$900 | $2,200 |
| Visa Visa and Permit to Stay fees (and possible travel fees–varying based on consulate location and student's residence) |
$300 | $1,500 |
| Books, Supplies & Course Fees | $50 / course | $300 / course |
| Meals Includes groceries and eating out. |
$650 / month | $850 / month |
| Personal Expenses | $300 / month | $400 / month |
| Transportation within La Spezia Public transportation with some taxi rides. |
$100 / month | $175 / month |
| Weekend Travel Cost varies greatly by student. |
$300 / month | $1,000 / month |
This is a SAI 360° Services Program; it includes our full services!
- Program tuition and U.S. academic credit
- Accommodation in carefully selected student housing
- Airport pickup on arrival day
- Welcome reception and events
- Orientation to the host city and school
- On-site staff who foster a welcoming community and provide assistance when needed
- SAI Viva Experience: cultural engagement, excursions & wellness activities
- Student health insurance providing full coverage and medical emergency evacuation
- 24-hour on-site emergency support
- Farewell event
Pre-departure and Re-entry services
- Knowledgeable Admissions Counselor dedicated to you, providing friendly assistance
- Helpful pre-departure tools and resources
- Parent & family resources
- Online student groups to acquaint you with other SAI students
- Student visa advising
- Assistance with financial aid processing
- Need-based SAI scholarships
- Alumni Ambassador Program, with paid internship opportunities
- SAI alumni network
SAI offers all students the Viva Experience: frequent cultural activities, at no extra cost, for participants to get to know their community, city and country. Specific activities are yet to be confirmed; please check back for details.
Standard Housing: Student apartment
SAI student apartments are convenient and well equipped, with shared occupancy bedrooms (double or triple), and the option to upgrade to a private bedroom, if available. Typical residences house 2 – 8 students and contain a combination of private and shared bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom and living areas. Furnishings, a washing machine, basic kitchen supplies, bed linens and towels are provided. All apartments are equipped with wireless Internet. Housing configurations are designated as female, male, and in some locations, gender-inclusive. Staff is available to respond to any maintenance needs that may arise.
Passports
Passports should be valid for at least 3 months after planned departure from Europe.
Student Visas
In accordance with Italian law, U.S. students studying in Italy for 90 days or less are not required to obtain a student visa. Therefore all U.S. students do not require a student visa for this program. Non-US nationals should consult their local consulate for information on student visa requirements.