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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Innovation, Digital Studies and Creative Communication
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Location
Milan
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Host University
Università IULM
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Term
Fall 3 2025
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Program Dates
Mid Sep, 2025 - Late Dec, 2025
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
May 01, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
May 15, 2025
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Credit
192 - 240 Contact Hours
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Eligibility
3.00 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$13,950
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
The Innovation, Digital Studies, and Creative Communication program at the Università IULM (IULM) is a great opportunity if you are a student of Business or Communication! Milan is one of the largest commercial and financial hubs in the world and studying at the IULM puts you in a center of innovation and entrepreneurship.
At the IULM, you can take courses in Business, Digital Studies, and Communication. You will enroll in 12-15 total semester credits. The program offers courses taught in English (except for Italian language courses). There is no Italian language experience required for this program. Classmates are international and local students.
Enjoy Flexibility with ISA Flex
We’ve partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to help you overcome common study abroad challenges by adding an ASU Online course to your ISA program. With more than 2,100 courses to choose from, ISA Flex minimizes academic challenges, like major requirements and limited course options, so you can make the most of your experience abroad. Once you’ve applied, access the Flex form in your ISA Student Portal for more information on how to add this to your program and enroll in the course you need.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.00.
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.
Meals and Laundry Service*
Meals and Laundry Service*
*The possibility for included meals and/or laundry services vary per location and housing option. Meals and laundry services are provided with most homestays to a degree. For more details, 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.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-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 ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
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.
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
Contact Hours
192 - 240
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12 - 15
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18 - 24
Academic Information
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
- You will be taking between 192 to 240 contact hours (12 to 15 semester credits) during this session.
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.
SYLLABI
- Requests for sample syllabi can be made to the Italy Program Manager.
TRANSCRIPTS
- Upon program completion, you will receive a transcript issued directly from the Università IULM (IULM). The transcripts from the IULM will reflect contact hours.
COURSE CREDIT
- The transcripts from the IULM will reflect contact hours. Please be in touch with your home university regarding credit transfer for this program.
- Credits earned vary according to the policies of your home institution, and credit transfer is ultimately dependent on your home university.
- According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, you must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by yourhome and host institutions, for the duration of the program.
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 in the intermediate level in the fall semester.
- You will have the opportunity to enroll in a pre-session 2-week intensive Italian language course for an additional cost. Contact the Italy Program Manager for more information about adding this pre-session course.
LANGUAGE PLACEMENT
- Enrollment in Italian courses is determined by the results of a language placement exam administered by the host university. 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 prepare for the language placement exam by reviewing previous coursework.
Please Note: The courses below reflect the list of courses offered by the host university in the previous year. Course offerings will be released in August. Please refer to this list when completing your pre-registration form. Also note that courses are always subject to change.
Courses
select allclear all
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating identity questions related to 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
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
MILAN TEAM
Luca Garotti
Resident Director, Italy
Luca Garotti
Resident Director
Luca was born in Padua, he was also raised for long periods of his childhood between Milan and Rome, but he considers Milan his home. Due to his tendency to travel, he decided to move to Scotland, Edinburgh, where he has spent six years working and studying. At the end of the Scottish experience, he has managed to gain a BA Honours degree in Creative Sound Production and an internship at BBC Scotland. Back in Milan, he was accepted at Bocconi school of Management, where he graduated in the Master in Arts Management. After graduating, he started working for Globalinks and then for ISA, where he started learning and appreciate the study abroad industry. Luca is passionate about Italy and Milan and he likes when his recommendations are appreciated by students! His approach is to show students the authentic parts of the city where locals live, his aim is to give students opportunities to practice both mainstream and exclusive experiences.
Raimondo Bernardi
Student Service Coordinator, Italy
Raimondo Bernardi
Student Service Coordinator
Raimondo was born in Bologna and later moved to Milan to study Politics at Universita’ Statale di Milano. He is a happy father of a seventeen-year-old daughter. Since he was a kid, he has been passionate about radio and music. In high school, he began working in the radio and artist press office. Throughout his life, he has had different experiences, working as a live entertainment show’s booker and promoter, coordinator of all related activities. He has promoted hundreds of live concerts and music shows in clubs, outdoor and sports arenas, and has also worked as a new music talent’s discoverer and still as a radio speaker. He has travelled and lived for periods in Central/South America and Asia. His great passion for vintage pop culture has involved him in major original comic fairs like the “Italian Comic Con,” where he became an exhibitor and mediator. He lived for work as an entrepreneur for 3 years in Spain, Balearic Islands, while also keeping the organization of the most important events in Milan. He then returned to Milan to focus more on consultancy activities for some big events companies.
Identity Resources
Accessibility & 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.
Destination Information
Our diversity pages for each ISA destination include information on Indigenous communities, languages, race and ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+, and disability access. We hope it will help when reflecting upon and contextualizing intersectionality in your host community.
Identity 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, and interested students should email diversity@studiesabroad.com for more information.
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 provides the opportunity for you to experience aspects of the Italian lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor of Italy. There are differences in culture and lifestyle between life in Italy and the U.S. Remember: the key to a positive experience is flexibility. With this in mind, you can become a true Milanese!
We strive to match your housing preferences with our available accommodations; however, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed.
Student Residence
While in Milan, you'll be housed at a student residence. Student residences in Milan are quite different than dorms in the U.S. as they are not located on a college campus. The residence will be approximately 25 to 25 minutes by public transportation from the host universities.
The apartments in the residence come in different sizes, ranging from studio to two-bedroom. Each apartment is fully furnished and includes a living room, kitchenette, and bathroom. Bedrooms are typically double occupancy. Each apartment includes one single bed per student. Towels and bed linens are included.
Coin operated laundry machines are available in the laundry room located in the basement.
You will pay a $300 refundable security deposit if living in this ISA housing option. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Independent Housing
You may opt to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you'll receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price. *All housing assignments are based on space available and student responses on the Housing Questionnaire.
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. The destinations shown below are a sample of some of the possibilities, which are finalized in the time leading up to the start of your program
Florence & Verona
First, you'll visit Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Visitors have every reason to be captivated by Verona's charm and sophistication. You’ll enjoy the view from Juliet's balcony as well as visit one of the largest and best-preserved Roman Arenas in existence. The Arena also is home to many festivals throughout the year. Don’t forget to leave a love letter on the wall of Juliet’s house!
Next, explore Florence, the "Cradle of the Renaissance." You'll take guided tours of art museums, enjoy views of the Ponte Vecchio, and wander through the central square to marvel at Brunelleschi's towering Duomo and Ghiberti's golden Gates of Paradise. Spend the afternoon walking through the bustling San Lorenzo market where you can find everything from pasta and vegetables to purses, belts, and shoes.
Florence & Verona
First, you'll visit Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Visitors have every reason to be captivated by Verona's charm and sophistication. You’ll enjoy the view from Juliet's balcony as well as visit one of the largest and best-preserved Roman Arenas in existence. The Arena also is home to many festivals throughout the year. Don’t forget to leave a love letter on the wall of Juliet’s house!
Next, explore Florence, the "Cradle of the Renaissance." You'll take guided tours of art museums, enjoy views of the Ponte Vecchio, and wander through the central square to marvel at Brunelleschi's towering Duomo and Ghiberti's golden Gates of Paradise. Spend the afternoon walking through the bustling San Lorenzo market where you can find everything from pasta and vegetables to purses, belts, and shoes.
Lake Como
Acclaimed as the most beautiful of the Italian lakes, Lake Como has attracted visitors from around the world for centuries and is known as a top destination for the rich and famous. You'll become enchanted by its charming, mountainous shoreline and sun-kissed natural beauty. The forked lake is one of the deepest in Europe (410 meters). Known for its grand picturesque villas, castles, and vineyards, Lake Como provides something special for everyone.
Lake Como
Acclaimed as the most beautiful of the Italian lakes, Lake Como has attracted visitors from around the world for centuries and is known as a top destination for the rich and famous. You'll become enchanted by its charming, mountainous shoreline and sun-kissed natural beauty. The forked lake is one of the deepest in Europe (410 meters). Known for its grand picturesque villas, castles, and vineyards, Lake Como provides something special for everyone.
Cultural Activities in Milan
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Milan. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Milan special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included visit to the Duomo, tours of museums (La Scala, Leonardo da Vinci, etc.) and San Siro stadium, a Flamenco Show at Piccolo Teatro, and viewing flamingos at Villa Invernizzi.
Cultural Activities in Milan
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Milan. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Milan special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included visit to the Duomo, tours of museums (La Scala, Leonardo da Vinci, etc.) and San Siro stadium, a Flamenco Show at Piccolo Teatro, and viewing flamingos at Villa Invernizzi.