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Florence University of the Arts
Pre-College Summer I 2023
3 weeks / 6 credits
SAI and FUA are pleased to offer high school and pre-college students from all academic backgrounds the possibility of earning 6 college credits and living in one of the most treasured centers of art, culture and history in the world, Italy. Students will experience Italian culture hands-on while participating in a variety of classes in the arts and humanities in this summer enrichment program.
Application: now open
Closes: April 11, 2023
Apps accepted on a rolling basis, and after closing as space permits
Application Requirements
Complete online application
Personal statement (300-500 words)
Official transcript
2 Academic letters of recommendation
Italian privacy consent form
Highlights
- Large and varied selection of courses
- Included excursions and daily activities
- Add a pre-session traveling course about Italian culture
Program Dates
June 25, 2023 – July 14, 2023
dates may differ as a result of add-ons
Eligibility Requirements
Age: 15 to 18
Academic Year: Currently enrolled in high school or recent graduate.
* contact SAI if you don’t meet requirements
High School GPA:* 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
English Language:* Non-native English language speakers must submit TOEFL: 500+ (paper-based), IELTS: 5+, OOPT: 50+, or equivalent.
Digital Imaging and Visual Arts
Fashion, Accessories and Tech
Fine Arts
Food and Wine Studies
Global Studies
Hospitality
Interior Design, Environmental Architecture, and Sustainability
Italian Studies and Linguistics
Journalism, Communication, and Publishing
Liberal Arts
Life Studies / Human Services
Professional Studies and Experiential Learning
Sport and Health Sciences
Fashion, Accessories and Tech
Fine Arts
Food and Wine Studies
Global Studies
Hospitality
Interior Design, Environmental Architecture, and Sustainability
Italian Studies and Linguistics
Journalism, Communication, and Publishing
Liberal Arts
Life Studies / Human Services
Professional Studies and Experiential Learning
Sport and Health Sciences
This course will introduce students to the digital photography world with particular focus on updated techniques and how they can be incorporated into classic fine art photography. The course will explore the use of state of-the-art computer software and techniques. The instructor will guide the student in learning to master photo computer software and how to control the scanning of a picture, transparency and negative to make a good quality digital print. Elements of photo composition and graphic design, photo history, and relationships with other art mediums will also be addressed during the course. FUA's Digital Laboratory is equipped with the most updated computers, software and peripherals.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Fashion Communication & Publishing | Course #: FTFCFM300 HS | Open
This course examines the context in which the Italian fashion system was born. Topics begin from the evolution of fashion from the post-WWII period to the present and address the role and influence of media and culture on factors such as economic and social status, the arts, and other issues that influenced fashion. Students explore fashion's connection to identity, body, politics, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, class, and how fashion and media are interrelated with these aspects of culture.
This course features a 30-hour faculty-supervised (Mon-Fri) journalism project with Blending.
This course is crossed listed.
This course features a 30-hour faculty-supervised (Mon-Fri) journalism project with Blending.
This course is crossed listed.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Fashion Communication & Publishing | Course #: FTFCSC280 HS | Open
Through a series of walks and visits through art and design this course intends to show famous and hidden fashion paths in Florence. A journey through time and space to discover the place that marked the birth of Italian fashion and opened the doors to Made in Italy. Back in 1954 Florence was the star of the fashion system, anticipating trends and stealing the exclusive scene from Paris. Italy embraced the new in fashion through the talent and genius of Giovanni Battista Giorgini, who staged the first ever Italian fashion shows in Florence. Students will discover a city of exquisite taste, tradition and artistic craftsmanship. Starting from the location of the first Italian cat walk held in the Sala Bianca of Palazzo Pitti, they will learn how to map the fashion environment of the city. From Renaissance to modern day inspiration, fashion is kept alive in the products that were designed here and that grace the beautiful city today. Designers, such as Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Emilio Pucci, Stefano Ricci, Ermanno Scervino, and Roberto Cavalli, have all developed and changed through the years and they have all surely blossomed here in Florence. The course is intended to provide academic knowledge through guided field learning activities that include research, on-site involvement, and topic assessment for each fashion themed walk in Florence. The classroom approach of this course is based on experiencing the city of Florence 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 of Florence 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.
Meeting point at FLY - Borgo Pinti, 20/r. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project.
Meeting point at FLY - Borgo Pinti, 20/r. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project.
Contact Hours: 45
This course is an introduction to creative design development and fashion design skills. Topics include design processes, trend research, storyboard creation, color, fabric selection, draping design concepts, design innovation, and the 2D to 3D development of creative ideas. Students will gain practice in these areas through projects and will also be introduced to the basics of fashion illustration. Students prepare for future apparel design projects by researching the design development process, textiles, materials, and industry practices. This class includes experiential learning with CEMI.
This course features a 30-hour faculty supervised project at FLY BOH (Mon-Fri).
This course features a 30-hour faculty supervised project at FLY BOH (Mon-Fri).
Contact Hours: 45
6.0 Credits
Art Education | Course #: FAAEGE350 | Open
Introduces all aspects of the working of an art gallery. Students will be involved in curating and marketing art shows and auctions through a community and on campus promotions.This course includes 150 hours of Experiential Learning with our Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI). CEMI are dynamic learning environments created to foster learning through a structured interaction with the community. In addition to regular lecture hours, students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as to develop a strong likelihood for success in life. The Experiential Learning hours are fully supervised by instructors who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. This unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management.
Contact Hours: 150
3.0 Credits
Dietetics & Nutrition | Course #: FWDNLN160 HS | Open
This course offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, nutrition, and fitness from a lifetime perspective. Course topics will examine how healthy lifestyles span across the continuum of lifespans and ages with a focus on how dietary and fitness needs evolve throughout the four main life-stages: childhood, youth, adulthood, and for the elderly. Theoretical core concepts of how dietary and fitness needs are correlated to mental health and adapt according to each life-stage will be addressed along with a comparative focus on the Italian and Mediterranean approach. In addition to in-class lectures, the course features hands-on field experiences in nutrition labs for healthy diets and physical activities held in local Italian fitness facilities. Students will implement course topics and to cultivate student motivation for incorporating them into their own daily lives.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Anthropology | Course #: GSANCI202 HS | Open
The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden ones awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and is aimed to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic architectural and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. FLORENCE ONLY
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas.
*This class is cross listed
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas.
*This class is cross listed
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Happiness Sciences | Course #: GSHSLN160 HS | Open
This course offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, nutrition, and fitness from a lifetime perspective. Course topics will examine how healthy lifestyles span across the continuum of lifespans and ages with a focus on how dietary and fitness needs evolve throughout the four main life-stages: childhood, youth, adulthood, and for the elderly. Theoretical core concepts of how dietary and fitness needs are correlated to mental health and adapt according to each life-stage will be addressed along with a comparative focus on the Italian and Mediterranean approach. In addition to in-class lectures, the course features hands-on field experiences in nutrition labs for healthy diets and physical activities held in local Italian fitness facilities. Students will implement course topics and to cultivate student motivation for incorporating them into their own daily lives.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Urban Studies | Course #: GSUSSC280 HS | Open
Through a series of walks and visits through art and design this course intends to show famous and hidden fashion paths in Florence. A journey through time and space to discover the place that marked the birth of Italian fashion and opened the doors to Made in Italy. Back in 1954 Florence was the star of the fashion system, anticipating trends and stealing the exclusive scene from Paris. Italy embraced the new in fashion through the talent and genius of Giovanni Battista Giorgini, who staged the first ever Italian fashion shows in Florence. Students will discover a city of exquisite taste, tradition and artistic craftsmanship. Starting from the location of the first Italian cat walk held in the Sala Bianca of Palazzo Pitti, they will learn how to map the fashion environment of the city. From Renaissance to modern day inspiration, fashion is kept alive in the products that were designed here and that grace the beautiful city today. Designers, such as Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Emilio Pucci, Stefano Ricci, Ermanno Scervino, and Roberto Cavalli, have all developed and changed through the years and they have all surely blossomed here in Florence. The course is intended to provide academic knowledge through guided field learning activities that include research, on-site involvement, and topic assessment for each fashion themed walk in Florence. The classroom approach of this course is based on experiencing the city of Florence 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 of Florence 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.
Meeting point at FLY - Borgo Pinti, 20/r. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project.
*This course is crossed listed.
Meeting point at FLY - Borgo Pinti, 20/r. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project.
*This course is crossed listed.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Hospitality and Tourism Management | Course #: HPHTCM360 HS | Open
Italian destination cities immediately conjure up images of the art, food, fashion, wine, and culture in which their fame lies: fashion shows and la Scala in Milan, Renaissance art in Florence, Brunello wine in Montalcino, the Biennale and Carnevale in Venice. This course will explore how creative advertising strategies have been created and implemented, their effect on city identity, the proliferation of creative areas in destination cities, and the future of creativity and creative marketing. Case studies of both well-established metropoli and developing destinations will be examined.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Architectural Restoration & History of Architecture | Course #: IDRHAR340 HS | Open
This course explores the principal architects, monuments, and themes of the fifteenth and sixteenth-century Italian architecture. The course includes site visits in the city of Florence. Emphasis will be on Renaissance architecture in Florence, but will also include architectural developments in Rome, Urbino, Mantua, Verona and Vicenza. Special topics will include architectural theory, Medici and papal patronage, urban planning, and church and palace design. A special focus will be dedicated to architects: Brunelleschi, Alberti, Michelozzo, Giuliano Sangallo, Bramante, Antonio Sangallo the Younger, Michelangelo, Giulio Romano, and Palladio. Visits to key Renaissance buildings and urban spaces in Florence are included.
Mandatory Field Learning in Arezzo. *This class is cross-listed.
Mandatory Field Learning in Arezzo. *This class is cross-listed.
Contact Hours: 45
One week of on-site field learning in different locations before session start: Rome, Tuscan coast, Cinque Terre (Fall-Summer); Rome, Orvieto, Perugia (Spring). The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This one-week intensive course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden one�s awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and aims to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic, architectural, and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. This class includes field learning hours. Field learning is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Italian Cultural Studies | Course #: ISISCI202 HS | Open
The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden one’s awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and is aimed to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic architectural and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills.
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community.
*The class is cross listed
FLORENCE ONLY
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community.
*The class is cross listed
FLORENCE ONLY
Contact Hours: 45
This course develops basic conversation, reading and writing skills. Equal focus will be given to grammatical structures, vocabulary and conversation skills. Students will develop a vocabulary that will enable them to engage in simple but useful everyday conversations, thus enhancing and supporting their Italian experience. Emphasis will be given to oral expression of practical vocabulary and newly acquired grammar structures. This level is for absolute beginner students who have never studied Italian before.
This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project (Mon-Fri) at the Ludoteca.
This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project (Mon-Fri) at the Ludoteca.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Creative Advertising | Course #: CPCRCM360 HS | Open
Italian destination cities immediately conjure up images of the art, food, fashion, wine, and culture in which their fame lies: fashion shows and la Scala in Milan, Renaissance art in Florence, Brunello wine in Montalcino, the Biennale and Carnevale in Venice. This course will explore how creative advertising strategies have been created and implemented, their effect on city identity, the proliferation of creative areas in destination cities, and the future of creativity and creative marketing. Case studies of both well-established metropoli and developing destinations will be examined.
Contact Hours: 45
This course examines the context in which the Italian fashion system was born. Topics begin from the evolution of fashion from the post-WWII period to the present and address the role and influence of media and culture on factors such as economic and social status, the arts, and other issues that influenced fashion. Students explore fashion's connection to identity, body, politics, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, class, and how fashion and media are interrelated with these aspects of culture.
This course features a 30-hour faculty supervised (Mon-Fri) journalism project with Blending.
This course is cross listed.
This course features a 30-hour faculty supervised (Mon-Fri) journalism project with Blending.
This course is cross listed.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Anthropology | Course #: GSANCI200 | Open
Pre-requisite: Mandatory pre-departure readings must be fulfilled prior to program start. Lectures and learning activities held in different locations. This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students.
One week of on-site field learning in different locations before session start: Rome, Tuscan coast, Cinque Terre (Fall-Summer); Rome, Orvieto, Perugia (Spring). The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This one-week intensive course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden ones awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and aims to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic, architectural, and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. This class includes field learning hours. Field learning is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.introduction to Italian culture and to broaden ones awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and aims to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic, architectural, and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. This class includes field learning hours. Field learning is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.
Pre-semester Field Learning program Sunday Aug 27, 2017 - Students arrive (Rome, by 5pm) Monday Aug 28 - Orientation Monday Aug 28 to Sunday Sept 3 Cultural Introduction to Italy Sunday Sept 3 - Classes end (Florence)
Pre-semester Field Learning program Sunday Aug 27, 2017 - Students arrive (Rome, by 5pm) Monday Aug 28 - Orientation Monday Aug 28 to Sunday Sept 3 Cultural Introduction to Italy Sunday Sept 3 - Classes end (Florence)
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Art History and Architecture | Course #: LAAHAR340 HS | Open
This course explores the principal architects, monuments and themes of fifteenth and sixteenth century Italian architecture. The course includes site visits in the city of Florence. Emphasis will be on Renaissance architecture in Florence, but will also include architectural developments in Rome, Urbino, Mantua, Verona and Vicenza. Special topics will include: architectural theory, Medici and papal patronage, urban planning, and church and palace design. A special focus will be dedicated to architects: Brunelleschi, Alberti, Michelozzo, Giuliano Sangallo, Bramante, Antonio Sangallo the Younger, Michelangelo, Giulio Romano and Palladio. Visits to key Renaissance buildings and urban spaces in Florence are included.
Mandatory Field Learning in Arezzo. *This class is cross listed.
Mandatory Field Learning in Arezzo. *This class is cross listed.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Art History and Architecture | Course #: LAAHCI200 | Open
One week of on-site field learning in different locations before session start: Rome, Tuscan coast, Cinque Terre (Fall-Summer); Rome, Orvieto, Perugia (Spring). The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This one-week intensive course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden one�s awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and aims to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic, architectural, and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. This class includes field learning hours. Field learning is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Art History and Architecture | Course #: LAAHCI202 HS | Open
The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden ones awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and is aimed to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic architectural and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. Florence only.
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community.
*The class is cross listed
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community.
*The class is cross listed
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Health Humanities | Course #: LSHHLN160 HS | Open
This course offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, nutrition, and fitness from a lifetime perspective. Course topics will examine how healthy lifestyles span across the continuum of lifespans and ages with a focus on how dietary and fitness needs evolve throughout the four main life-stages: childhood, youth, adulthood, and for the elderly. Theoretical core concepts of how dietary and fitness needs are correlated to mental health and adapt according to each life-stage will be addressed along with a comparative focus on the Italian and Mediterranean approach. In addition to in-class lectures, the course features hands-on field experiences in nutrition labs for healthy diets and physical activities held in local Italian fitness facilities. Students will implement course topics and to cultivate student motivation for incorporating them into their own daily lives.
Contact Hours: 45
One week of on-site field learning in different locations before session start: Rome, Tuscan coast, Cinque Terre (Fall-Summer); Rome, Orvieto, Perugia (Spring). The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This one-week intensive course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden one�s awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and aims to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic, architectural, and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. This class includes field learning hours. Field learning is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Sociology | Course #: LSSOCI202 HS | Open
The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden the awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and is aimed to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic architectural and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. Florence only.
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community. *This class is cross listed.
This course includes an Italian language component for beginning-level students. Mandatory Field Learning at Medici Villas. This course features a 15-hour faculty supervised project in the FUA community. *This class is cross listed.
Contact Hours: 45
One week of on-site field learning in different locations before session start: Rome, Tuscan coast, Cinque Terre (Fall-Summer); Rome, Orvieto, Perugia (Spring). The study of Italian culture helps the student to acquire a deep awareness of both cultural unity and regional diversity. This one-week intensive course is intended to provide students with an in-depth introduction to Italian culture and to broaden ones awareness and understanding of the role of cultural heritage in customs and lifestyles. Lectures will provide students with an organized, focused, and academic understanding of Italian history, art, architecture, food, religion, and culture. The course provides additional enrichment through basic notions of Italian language and terminology along with assigned readings and a final paper. On-site teaching is a significant part of this course and aims to provide the student with an incomparable experience of studying important sites of artistic, architectural, and social relevance in present-day Italy. Students are encouraged to observe the sites through active participation and to discuss their observations using specific and analytic social assessment skills. This class includes field learning hours. Field learning is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.
Contact Hours: 45
This course introduces students to the basics of how to assemble personal portfolios that exhibit strength of imagination and prove professional skills and competence. Whether the focus is fashion and accessories design, graphic design, interior design, digital photography, or fine arts, a finely tailored portfolio is an essential element for applications and interviews. A successful portfolio documents the creative process and displays an individual's talents and qualifications. Its purpose is to feature an evolving, experimental process that adequately expresses the trajectory and growth of ideas. Coursework will include the exploration of visual strategies, formats, styles, and multimedia to best promote the student's self-image. By demonstrating mastery of techniques and overall creativity, portfolios are an important opportunity that can support applications to new academic opportunities, including internships and scholarships, as well as first employment.
Contact Hours: 45
3.0 Credits
Sport Sciences | Course #: SHSSLN160 HS | Open
This course offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, nutrition, and fitness from a lifetime perspective. Course topics will examine how healthy lifestyles span across the continuum of lifespans and ages with a focus on how dietary and fitness needs evolve throughout the four main life-stages: childhood, youth, adulthood, and for the elderly. Theoretical core concepts of how dietary and fitness needs are correlated to mental health and adapt according to each life-stage will be addressed along with a comparative focus on the Italian and Mediterranean approach. In addition to in-class lectures, the course features hands-on field experiences in nutrition labs for healthy diets and physical activities held in local Italian fitness facilities. Students will implement course topics and to cultivate student motivation for incorporating them into their own daily lives.
Contact Hours: 45
The Pre-College Summer program is designed to give high school students the opportunity to earn college credit abroad. Students spend three unforgettable weeks living and studying in the heart of Florence. Students enroll in two elective courses for a total of 6 credits. The program includes staff dedicated to the student group: 1 staff member for every 7 students. In addition, staff members stay with students in accommodations (1 staff member for every 10 students at night), in order to be available 24 hours per day. The program includes planned activities and excursions for a rich social and cultural experience, as well as two meals per day. All courses are taught in English, and take students out into the city for first-hand experiences. View a sample program itinerary [PDF].
Program Add-on: Cultural Introduction to Italy
SAI students enrolled in FUA’s Pre-College program are able to add a 1 week 3 credit Cultural Introduction to Italy Program Add-on course to the start of their term, to extend their program by 1 week. This traveling course gives students the opportunity to delve into Italian culture through lectures, visits to cultural sites, and food tastings. For more information and full course description see Courses. Please note that students enrolled in this program add-on course arrive in Rome on June 18, 2023.
Course Registration
SAI students complete their course registration directly with FUA through the FUA student portal. Upon confirming enrollment in the SAI Pre-College program at FUA, students receive information for creating their FUA student portal and selecting their classes. FUA courses are competitive and registration begins months ahead of the application deadline. Courses will fill rapidly and on a rolling basis. Note: All courses must meet the minimum enrollment of 8 students to run; therefore, all registrations require selection of an alternate course for each primary course choice.
Students receive an Italian transcript from FUA for courses taken through this program. A US transcript can be added for an additional cost.
Course Changes
Students wishing to make changes to their class schedule prior to departure can do so directly by logging into their FUA student account. Students receive an email confirmation from SAI once the change is accepted. Students are permitted to make as many Add/Drop adjustments to their schedule prior to departure as needed. The last day to submit a schedule change prior to departure is approximately 6 weeks prior to departure. After the deadline, no changes can be made until the Add/Drop period in Florence at which time only one additional change can be made, no exceptions.
| Pre-Departure Calendar | |
|---|---|
| April 11 2023 |
Application Closes Applications accepted after closing as space permits. |
| Within 1 week of acceptance |
SAI Deposits Due $500 Confirmation Deposit (applied toward program fee) $300 Security Deposit (refundable) |
| March 15 2023 |
SAI Scholarship Application Deadline Students wishing to apply for an SAI scholarship must have all application items submitted by 11:59pm Pacific Time on this date. |
| March 27 2023 |
50% of Total Program Fee Due Students who are accepted and submit SAI deposits after this date will have an amended pay schedule. Either 50% or 100% of Program Fee will be due within 5 business days, based on the deposit payment date. |
| April 26 2023 |
Balance of Total Program Fee Due |
| On-Site Calendar | |
|---|---|
| June 25 2023* |
Arrival & Housing Check-in Students arrive into Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola (FLR). Airport pickup is provided between 9:00am and 5:00pm, and students are transferred to housing. |
| June 26 2023 |
FUA Orientation Students are introduced to FUA, available resources, and their professors. |
| June 27 2023 |
FUA Classes Begin |
| July 13 2023 |
FUA Classes End |
| July 14 2023 |
Program End & Housing Check-out Students check out of housing between 7:00am and 10:00am. Return transportation to Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola (FLR) is provided. |
* Students adding the Cultural Introduction to Italy course arrive in Rome (FCO airport) on June 18, 2023 by 3:00PM
| SAI Program Fees* | USD |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $120 |
| Security Deposit Refundable at the end of the term. |
$300 |
| Program Fee: 3 weeks / 6 credits Includes tuition, standard housing and SAI 360° Services (see What’s Included). |
$5,700 |
| Optional / Additional Fees: | |
| Optional Add-on Course (3 credits) 1 week course prior to regular program, includes housing. |
$1,000 |
| US School of Record Transcript For students wishing to receive US college credit for their courses. |
Coming soon |
| 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 note that students who successfully complete this program will earn a $500 discount toward any future SAI Signature Services semester/quarter undergraduate programs.
| Budget | Low Est. | High Est. |
|---|---|---|
| Airfare |
$900 | $1,800 |
| Meals Includes groceries and eating out |
$400 | $475 |
| Books & Supplies Per course |
$50 | $150 |
| Personal Expenses | $200 | $350 |
This is a SAI 360° Services Program; it includes our full services!
- Program tuition
- Accommodation in student housing with live-in Resident Assistants
- 2 meals per day
- Airport pickup and return
- Student health insurance providing full coverage and medical emergency evacuation
- Comprehensive orientation to the host city and school
- 24-hour on-site supervision and support
- Daily extracurricular activities designed to help you discover Florence and Italian culture
- US-based admissions counselor assigned to you, providing friendly assistance
- Helpful pre-departure tools and resources
- $500 return student discount to be used toward a semester/quarter SAI program
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. Following is a sample of the activities included in this program. Please note that actual activities may differ. View a sample program itinerary [PDF].
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
FUA offers a rich and varied calendar of extracurricular activities to suit the diverse needs and interests of students. Following is a sample of these activities.
Connecting Cultures City Walks
Through guided walks through the most significant neighborhoods of Florence, students gain an understanding between the past and contemporary Florence, maximizing their experience by venturing into areas they might not explore on their own and connecting with the community.
Sports Night
This activity is a great way to keep in shape while expanding your knowledge of Italian fitness culture. Soccer is the mainstay of Italian athletics and the focus of our sports night. Even if you are not an athlete, everyone is welcome to both have fun on the field or just cheer on your classmates from the stands.
Musing Club
This activity offers an opportunity for students to explore the world of music and performing arts in Florence. Opera events, visits and performances are all part of this special club. Interested in expanding your knowledge of music or just seeing an exciting performance? This activity is for you!
Aperiganzo/Aperiat
Students join weekly art openings, book presentations and talks at AperiGanzo. This is a great opportunity to meet artists, authors and mingle with fellow classmates, FUA professors and members of the Italian community.
Blending Journalism
Blending is a journalistic collaboration that offers students the opportunity to express ideas through investigative and creative writing and photography. Writers, photographers, copy editors and graphic designers who are excited about publishing their experiences and perspectives gained in Florence, as well as novice writers that just looking for a format to document their experience in Florence are all welcome. Summer editions include two newsletters.
COURSE ACTIVITIES & PROJECTS
Courses in the schedule may feature one of the following two FUA learning methodologies that are an integral and mandatory component of the academic coursework. The methodologies are intended to engage students within the local culture and community through academically structured initiatives.
Experiential Learning
In addition to regular lecture hours, students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as develop a strong likelihood for success in life. The experiential learning hours are fully supervised by instructions who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. The unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management.
Field Learning
Field learning at FUA is a method of educating through first-hand experience. Skills, knowledge, and experience are acquired outside of the traditional academic classroom setting and may include field activities, field research, and service-learning projects. The field learning experience is cultural; because it is intended to be wide-reaching, field-related content is not limited to the course subject but seeks to supplement and enrich academic topics. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice while experiencing Italian culture, art, and community within the Italian territory. Faculty will lead students in experiencing Italian culture through guided projects and field experiences as planned for the course. Field learning will be developed through classroom preparation, follow up projects, and guided learning outcomes. Field learning will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and appreciate the multifold components of Italian Culture through direct experience. Field education will advance student learning as a relationship-centered process.
Students enrolled in the pre-college program are offered safe and relaxing accommodations, fully equipped and monitored 24/7 by live-in Resident Assistants. Student housing is adjacent to the main school buildings and is located in the city center in large multi-bedroom apartments similar to dorm-style accommodations. All accommodations are a combination of shared rooms that will vary in the number of students per room. There are shared kitchens, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi throughout the building.
Passports
Passports should be valid for 3 months after planned departure from Italy.
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.
Other Schools in Florence
About SAI
SAI is dedicated to providing academic and cultural learning experiences abroad that enhance global awareness, professional development and social responsibility. We concentrate our programs in Europe, with a focus on in-depth learning of individual European countries and their unique global role in the geopolitical economy, humanities, and in the arts.