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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Mediterranean Studies on the Italian Riviera
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Location
La Spezia
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Host University
Florence University of the Arts - The American University of Florence, La Spezia Campus
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Term
Spring 1 2026
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Program Dates
Jan 22, 2026 - May 09, 2026
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Program Length
Sesmester
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Application Deadline
Oct 01, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Oct 15, 2025
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Credit
12 - 15 Credits
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Eligibility
2.75 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$17,450
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Located on the Italian seaside, the port city of La Spezia is the gateway to the Cinque Terre, a string of picturesque villages perched on coastal mountains. In addition to courses in business, arts, and sciences, this program offers a learning experience that will allow you to engage with the local community and culture. You will gain comprehensive insight into the Mediterranean lifestyle through courses that turn the city into your classroom and through access to the unique natural environment of the Liguria region.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.75.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
You must be at least 18 years old by the program start date.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception*
Airport Reception*
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
*Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs, as well as programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions*
Excursions*
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
*Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, some summer sessions, as well as some programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Resident Staff
Resident Staff
The part-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site Offices
On-Site Offices
You will have access to many of the resources and facilities at the host university. ISA resident staff members will hold office hours either at the host university or at another pre-determined location in the city each week.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
Credits
12 - 15
Contact Hours
180 - 225
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12 - 15
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
16 - 20
Academic Information
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
- This program is comprised of a pre-semester February intensive session + 11-week Spring semester in La Spezia. You will take a total of 12-15 semester credits during this program: one course (3 credits) during February Intensive Month, and 3-4 courses (9-12 credits) during the Spring semester.
COURSE SELECTION
- Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.
- Eligibility for courses may be subject to a placement exam and/or prerequisites.
- Course availability is based on enrollment numbers.
- You should seek pre-approval for alternate courses in the event of class cancellations.
- The courses below reflect the most current list of courses released by the host university. Please refer to this list when completing your pre-registration form. Also note that courses are always subject to change.
FEBRUARY INTENSIVE MONTH COURSES
The courses in the list below are available during the February session of your program. You will enroll in only one of these courses.
HPHTCM360 - Art, Food, Fashion, and Wine: Creative Advertising of Italian Destinations
GSANCI202 - Cultural Introduction to Italy (offered during February intensive session and 11-week semester)
FWFCRN220 - Food, Wine, and the City: Riviera Neighborhood Walks
FWDNHN150 - Health and Fitness in the Mediterranean (offered during February intensive session and 11-week semester)
BUMKIM280 - Introduction to Marketing
DIPHIP255 - iPhoneography: Riviera Walks
ISITIB101 - Italian Language Beginner
You will also enroll in 3-4 additional courses during the 11-week semester.
COURSE CREDIT
- Credits earned vary according to the policies of your home institution.
- According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, you must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by your home and host institutions, for the duration of the program.
- Credit transfer is ultimately determined by your home university.
COURSE LEVEL RECOMMENDATIONS
- ISA offers course level recommendations for the courses listed below. Please note that the course level recommendations are based on the Florence University of the Arts (FUA) subject difficulty levels and course codes. Course numbers generally adhere to the following guidelines:
- 100 - 299 Lower division courses
- 300 - 499 Upper division courses
- 600 - 699 Graduate Courses
- Students who have taken at least 4 semesters of college (juniors or seniors) may be permitted to enroll in graduate level courses. It is your responsibility to get any graduate level courses (and credits) approved by your home institution.
- These ISA recommendations are intended to facilitate the determination of course equivalencies by advisers and credential evaluators at participants' U.S. home institutions.
SYLLABI
- Requests for sample syllabi can be made to the Italy Program Manager.
LANGUAGE RECOMMENDATION
- If you have not completed a college semester of Italian language or the equivalent you are strongly encouraged to take an Italian language course while on this program.
- Italian courses are offered from the Beginner to Advanced level.
COURSE FEES
- Some courses may require additional fees for materials and field trips which are to be paid directly to the host university. Fees typically range from €20 to €150.
TRANSCRIPTS
- Upon program completion, you will receive a transcript issued directly from the Florence University of the Arts (FUA). If you require a U.S. transcript, you have the option to request a School of Record transcript from the University of South Florida (USF) for an additional cost ($185-$530 depending on the number of credits you are taking at FUA). The University of South Florida serves as the U.S. School of Record for the FUA and this benefit is also extended to ISA students. Please speak with your program manager for information regarding this transcript option. Additional information regarding the School of Record partnership between the FUA and USF may be found on the USF Education Abroad and FUA Accreditation sites.
LANGUAGE PLACEMENT
- Enrollment in Italian courses is determined by the results of a language placement exam administered by the Florence University of the Arts (FUA). Please note that your performance on the placement exam may not reflect the number of semesters of language instruction you've already completed at your home university.
- We strongly suggest that if you are trying to place into any level of language beyond true beginning, to prepare for the language placement exam by reviewing previous coursework.
Courses
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Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating your questions about traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Victoria Grist
Senior Program Manager, Italy
Victoria was born and raised in Amarillo, TX and graduated with her B.A. in Psychology from WTAMU. Although she had never lived more than 20 minutes from her hometown, Victoria took a leap of faith and studied abroad for 4 months in Reggio Emilia, Italy, which sparked a passion for travel and cultural exchange. Upon graduation, Victoria moved to Germany for two and a half years to work as an au pair and study German. After moving back to Texas, she attended Texas State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and a minor in German. Tori made several life-long friendships and had so many once in a lifetime experiences throughout her adventures abroad, and she’s excited to help others do the same here at ISA. In her free time, Victoria can be found hiking, paddleboarding, camping, or floating the river with her dogs.
Adyline Saucier
Program Manager, Italy
Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Adyline received her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Global Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. Adyline started her travel journey in high school through educational learning experiences in Costa Rica and Thailand. Through these impactful travel excursions, she fell in love with the idea of learning abroad. Her degree and love for travel led her to participate in a semester abroad in Pamplona, Spain where she studied Spanish and EU Policy. During this time, she participated in life changing opportunities and met lifelong friends. In her free time, Adyline loves reading, hiking, and participating in all things Texas Longhorns related. Adyline is excited to help students prepare for their experiences abroad through ISA!
Jessie Llerena
Region & Account Manager, Europe
Born and raised in New Jersey, Jessie graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A in Psychology. Her love for traveling started at a young age from visiting family back home in Ecuador. She is passionate about helping people and delivering high quality care. In her free time, she likes to spend time with family and friends, play with her dog, Cash, work out, and travel (of course!). Jessie finds that studying abroad is important to learn about different cultures, as it creates lasting relationships and memories. She is excited to be a part of the ISA team and to support students through their studies overseas
LA SPEZIA TEAM
Alessia Foianesi
Resident Director, Italy
Alessia Foianesi
Resident Director
Born and raised in Florence, Alessia studied Cultural Events Management at the University of Florence with a major in History of Cinema. She interned for a cultural association in a short film festival production in Tuscany. After graduating, she moved to the United States to work as an Au Pair in New Jersey. She joined the ISA team shortly after her American experience. She plays beach volleyball in her spare time and she likes cooking for her friends. She believes that the best way to learn while traveling is by meeting locals, that is why she values the role of the ISA on site staff so much! She is looking forward to meeting ISA students and share with them her love for Florence and the Italian Culture!
Resources
Access & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@worldstrides.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
ISA Student Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
ISA housing offers the opportunity for you to immerse yourself in Italy during your study abroad experience. No matter your housing preference, you’ll be able to walk or take public transportation to your classes! With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations. However, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Apartment
Apartments are furnished, centrally located, and within walking distance of the University or public transit routes. While apartments are standardized in terms of basic amenities, they can vary greatly in terms of both aesthetics and proximity to the university. Rent and utilities are included in the program price....
Independent Housing
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
ISA excursions allow you to explore the diverse, distinct, and gorgeous landscape of Italy that you may not be able to visit on your own. While abroad, you will have the chance to go 2-3 excursions. The destinations below are a sample of some of the possibilities, which are finalized in the time leading up to the start of your program.
Hilltowns of Central Italy
Spend the day soaking up the classic rolling hills of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. While exploring the well-preserved medieval towns and surrounding vineyards that dot the hillsides, you’ll experience the essence of Italy and gain a glimpse into local life and culture. Here the landscape is defined by giant sunflowers and hay bales, and the towns produce some of the world’s best wine. Possible destinations include Vinci, Val'Dorcia, Ninfa, Sermoneta, Arezzo, Lucca, and Montepulciano.
Hilltowns of Central Italy
Spend the day soaking up the classic rolling hills of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. While exploring the well-preserved medieval towns and surrounding vineyards that dot the hillsides, you’ll experience the essence of Italy and gain a glimpse into local life and culture. Here the landscape is defined by giant sunflowers and hay bales, and the towns produce some of the world’s best wine. Possible destinations include Vinci, Val'Dorcia, Ninfa, Sermoneta, Arezzo, Lucca, and Montepulciano.
Rome
Get an introduction to Italy via the Eternal City, a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends historical landmarks with modern Italian style. During this trip, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Coliseum, the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Spanish Steps, and finish the excursion by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this truly enchanting city. Rome can be overwhelming because of its size, but with ISA as a guide, you’ll be set!
Rome
Get an introduction to Italy via the Eternal City, a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends historical landmarks with modern Italian style. During this trip, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Coliseum, the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Spanish Steps, and finish the excursion by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this truly enchanting city. Rome can be overwhelming because of its size, but with ISA as a guide, you’ll be set!
Siena & Tuscan Towns
Another incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena has a laid-back lifestyle that allows you to leisurely stroll the winding cobblestone streets, explore the Renaissance cathedral, and relax in the beautiful town square, Piazza del Campo. Each neighborhood (contrada) is represented by an animal or mascot. Ward rivalries are most rampant during the traditional medieval horse race (Palio) held on July 2 and August 16 in Piazza del Campo each year. Then, you’ll tour neighboring Tuscan towns that produce some of the world’s greatest wines, cheeses, and other iconic Italian products. Possible locations include San Gimignano or Monteriggioni.
Siena & Tuscan Towns
Another incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena has a laid-back lifestyle that allows you to leisurely stroll the winding cobblestone streets, explore the Renaissance cathedral, and relax in the beautiful town square, Piazza del Campo. Each neighborhood (contrada) is represented by an animal or mascot. Ward rivalries are most rampant during the traditional medieval horse race (Palio) held on July 2 and August 16 in Piazza del Campo each year. Then, you’ll tour neighboring Tuscan towns that produce some of the world’s greatest wines, cheeses, and other iconic Italian products. Possible locations include San Gimignano or Monteriggioni.
Cultural Activities in Italy
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Italy. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes the country special.
These activities vary each term, but previous offerings have included walking tours, a pizza making class, and a tour of a gelato factory!
Cultural Activities in Italy
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Italy. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes the country special.
These activities vary each term, but previous offerings have included walking tours, a pizza making class, and a tour of a gelato factory!