Accredited Semester Study Abroad Program in Florence, Italy

The benefits of a study semester abroad at SRISA

Studying abroad for a semester is one of the best ways to explore a new culture, meet new people, and develop personal and professional skills. With its vibrant history and culture, stunning landscape, and architecture, and, of course, the food, Florence offers an unforgettable student experience.

We provide support in each area needed to help you to transition to life in a study semester abroad, to feel at home and to create an unforgettable student experience. Most students choose to be housed with us in one of our apartments that are located within walking distance of the center. Being so close to the center you will be surrounded by historical monuments in a vibrant city.

Learn more about dates, fees, courses, field trips and activities offered for a specific term: 

:: REGULAR PROGRAM OVERVIEW ::

Program Structure:

SRISA offers American University level undergraduate courses taught in English in a variety of areas of study. All classes, with the exception of Italian, are taught in English. Most students choose to study for one or two semesters. Fall and Spring semesters are 15 weeks long and students enroll in 12-16 credit hours.

Semester Programs:

  • Fall (September-December) Total Credits: 12-16
  • Spring (January-April) Total Credits: 12-16

Departments:

  • Fine Arts
  • Liberal Arts
  • Design

Subjects:

Photography, Digital Imaging, Printmaking, Book Arts, Painting, Drawing, Art History, Museum Studies, History, Music Appreciation, Politics and Social Science, Literature, Creative Writing, Cinema (Film Studies), Journalism, Fashion Design, Jewelry Design, Textiles Design, Italian Language (All Levels).

CLASSROOM STRUCTURE & INSTRUCTION:

Academic Lecture Classes:

Lecture classes meet twice a week for a total of 3 contact hours per week. Classes combine in-class lectures, discussion, and on-site visits and instruction. Most academic courses are reading and writing intensive and will require a minimum of 6-9 hours of work outside of regular class-time.

Studio Classes:

These hands on courses meet twice a week for a total of 6 contact hours per week. Studio courses combine practical lessons, in-class demonstrations and slide presentations. When possible students go on-site to work or visit exhibits or museums of relevance to the subject being studied. All courses require outside work and in-class critiques, both group and individual. Advanced studio courses may require written assignments and many require students to keep a sketchbook.

Grading and Evaluation:

Students are graded using the American University model of evaluation.

Field Trips:

Most courses integrate on-site visits to museums and exhibitions and at times require day or overnight trips. These excursions are considered an integral part of the course curriculum and attendance is mandatory. The fees for these excursions are not included in tuition. Students will be invoiced separately after the end of the add-drop period for these excursions along with general lab fees.

REGISTERING FOR COURSES:

To register for courses students download the Course Registration Form.
Fine Arts, Liberal Arts, and Design programs consist of 4-5 courses for a total of 12-16 credits.
Italian Language is not required, but is highly encouraged for the enriching cultural benefit the language provides.
Students may enroll in a maximum of (4) Studio Art courses per semester.
Students must provide alternatives to their first choice courses or their course registration will be considered incomplete.

Studying and Travelling in Europe

Semester abroad programs are the perfect way to dip your toe in the water to see if you are ready for a full year abroad. A single semester abroad will show you what it is like to be independent. This experience will enhance your education all while being an amazing adventure. Becoming a part of the local community and making new friends is the best way to immerse yourself in a new culture.

Travel is one of the best ways to make the most of your time here. Aside from the school organized trips, there are lots of ways to get around Europe cheaply: by airplane, train or even bus. While the great capitals of Europe are easy to reach, remember to explore Florence and the surrounding cities to visit important historical sites that you have only maybe ever read about or seen in films.

Another great way to make the most of your time here is to take part in cultural activities, get involved in student activities and engage as much as you can. You will meet fellow students and create a new sense of home in Florence. Take advantage of the language support and practice with both the locals and other students.

What courses are available?

Santa Reparata International School of Art (SRISA) offers the chance for you to learn from our experienced faculty. Their role is to help you to continue to grow in your education. We offer a range of courses in disciplines such as painting, sculpture, photography, fashion and much more. Beyond academics, our staff are there to help you with the day-to-day navigation of Florence and all it has to offer.

Live like a local in a vibrant city steeped in culture

During your study semester abroad, you will be able to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world. You will delve into the history and culture of this magnificent city. When it comes to art, Florence has so much to offer from masterpieces dating back many centuries to contemporary art. There is never a lack of exhibitions or works of art to see. Museums are not the only place with art: walking down the street you are sure to stumble upon iconic landmarks, like the dome atop Florence’s cathedral.

Florence is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students in semester abroad programs. SRISA offers a unique experience for students who want to learn in a supportive and creative environment. A study semester abroad at SRISA is the perfect moment to embrace a student experience like no other.

What credits will I get out of this program?

All courses are taught in English, except for Italian language classes. We offer American university-level undergraduate courses in Fine Arts, Liberal Arts, and Design. The Fall semester runs from August to December and the Spring Semester from January to April. Both semesters are 15 weeks long and students enroll in 15-16 credit hours.

Not only will you be learning in class, but the entire city will be your language lab. Take advantage of the numerous open-air markets, restaurants, pizzerias, and cafés to practice your Italian. Make the most of this outdoor study space to live like one of the locals and learn to speak like one too.

SRISA study abroad student life incorporates all aspects of study abroad, which goes beyond academic life. It also includes partaking in local traditions and festivities, social interaction, and, most importantly, cultural immersion. International students will also mingle with Italian students thanks to various cultural activities organized by the University.

Is it possible to intern at SRISA?

Why not grow your professional skills by looking at our summer study abroad internships! Interning in Florence is the perfect way to make the most of your time here and will also help you in your career. Here at SRISA we do everything we can to get you a suitable internship that will service you and your future career needs. It will be in a field of your choice and either internally within the institution or with a local business.

An internal internship here at SRISA will help you in various areas like marketing, curating, social media, and photography. You will work alongside professionals who will not only offer their valuable time and experience but will prepare you for working life in the professional world. In the past students alongside working with SRISA staff have created marketing materials including videos, limited-edition screen-printed products, photograph student and artist events that are happening in and around the school such as SRISA gallery shows.

There is also the possibility to learn in various locations around Florence. The employer will depend on both your skills and your availability. Previous candidates have interned in art galleries, art museums, graphic design studios, and in photography, journalism, and marketing. We can also support you in building your own study abroad summer internships.