Accredited Semester Study Abroad Program in Florence, Italy

Why choose a study semester abroad? The benefits of studying at SRISA.

Studying abroad for a semester is one of the best ways to explore a new culture, make connections, 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 and all our apartments are within a twenty-minute walk of the center. Then, in the heart of Florence, minutes from your doorstep 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 (3) Studio Art courses per semester.
Students must provide alternatives to their first choice courses or their course registration will be considered incomplete.

Studying in Europe

Travel while studying

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. Become a part of the local community and make lifelong connections, this is the best way to immerse yourself in a new culture.

Some tips for really making the most of your time here are to travel, aside from the school organized trips, there are lots of ways to get around Europe cheaply, by airplane, train or even bus. Remember to explore Florence and surrounding cities and 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 basically engage as much as you can. You will make connections with your fellow students and feel at home. Take advantage of the language support and practice with both the locals and other students.

Why Florence?

Live like a local in this vibrant city steeped in culture

During your study semester abroad, you will be able to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world a little more. 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 to contemporary art. There is never a lack of exhibitions or things to see. Already just walking down the street you are sure to stumble upon iconic landmarks.

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

Courses available

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

What credits will I get out of this program?

All courses are taught in English, except Italian. 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, they 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 cafès 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, this includes not only academic life. It also includes taking 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.