Overview
Get to know Florence like a local as you dive into hospitality, liberal arts, or Italian language during an intensive month at Florence University of the Arts. This short-term program combines hands-on academics with the rhythms of daily life in one of Italy’s most iconic cities.
Quick Facts
Host University
Terms
Eligibility
2.75 minimum GPA (see academics for exceptions), 18+ years old
Housing
Program Details
Wake up in Florence and head to class in the heart of Tuscany, where you’ll enroll in one intensive, three-week course taught in English at Florence University of the Arts (FUA), no previous Italian language experience required. Popular subject areas include culinary arts, fashion, tourism, literature, and Italian language. You'll study alongside other international students and learn from FUA’s international and local faculty. FUA is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and extending learning beyond the classroom. Each course integrates real-world application and may include local site visits, workshops, or field-based activities tied directly to the subject matter.
From the moment you land to the day you leave, our team is here for you. You’ll be supported by our experienced on-site staff throughout your stay. Whether you need help navigating life abroad or just want local recommendations, we’re here to ensure your experience is safe, supported, and unforgettable.
We’ll help you make the most of your time abroad with interactive activities throughout your program. We’ll also host an in-depth orientation when you arrive to help you navigate the city, academic culture, and your new home – all included in your program. From cooking classes to gelato tasting, your time in Florence will blend experiential learning with cultural discovery.
Dates & Fees
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : February 2026
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : September 2025
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : October 2025
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : November 2025
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : December 2025
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : March 2026
Short Session at Florence University of the Arts : April 2026
Stories from Abroad
Hear what recent study abroad students are saying about their journeys overseas.
What's Included
Tuition & Official Transcript
Cultural Activities
Housing & Internet
Local Team Support
In-Country Orientation
International Insurance
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Mental Health Support
Career Resources
Florence University of the Arts
Florence University of the Arts (FUA) is an innovative institution that blends Florentine heritage with forward-thinking academics. Located along the Arno River and housed in historic palaces, FUA offers a modern, hands-on learning environment in the heart of one of Italy’s most iconic cities. It’s the only institution in Italy where students directly engage in community-based learning across its academic divisions.
Take courses in English across a wide array of disciplines, with no Italian language experience required.
Learn by doing through FUA’s unique model of community engagement—students may contribute to projects at local pastry shops, wellness spas, guest apartments, publishing houses, and more.
Study in professionally equipped facilities including demo kitchens, fashion labs, art studios, music spaces, and exhibition galleries.
Enhance your experience through extracurricular activities like cultural city walks, weekly sports nights, volunteering, performing arts, and student-led publications.
Connect with local culture through the Italian Family Club and Chat Pal, pairing you with locals for shared meals, conversation, and cultural exchange, offered by FUA’s Student Life & Development team.
Photos: Copyright 2025, Florence University of the Arts
Academics
We know choosing the right courses is important. We've got all the info you need to set yourself up for academic success abroad.
Credits
Per intensive month:
Credits: 3
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits: 3
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units: 4
Courses
Choose your preferred term in the course finder and start searching available courses. Looking for something specific? Use the quick search and type in the title (e.g. Psychology).
Click on a course to view the full description. If you need a sample syllabus, hit the Contact Us button and reach out. We can provide personalized course recommendations, too!
The course list below contains course information for the upcoming terms. These courses may change as academic offerings are finalized. You should seek pre-approval for alternate classes in the event of course cancellations or scheduling conflicts. After you’re accepted, we’ll provide instructions to help you navigate the course enrollment process.
Cultural Activities
Discover more abroad through cultural activities designed to immerse you in the local culture. From guided city tours to hands-on activities, each experience is intended to help you connect with your host community. You’ll have access to a detailed itinerary in the WorldStrides Connections app prior to your program.
Offerings vary by term; below is a sample of past activities to give you a taste of what’s in store.
Home Away from Home
After you've applied, you'll complete a housing questionnaire that will help us match your preferences with the available options. Housing assignments are on a first-come, first-served basis, so complete this form as soon as you're able! We strive to match your housing preferences as best we can, but requests cannot be guaranteed.
The options listed below are based on double-occupancy with another international student, unless otherwise noted. Single rooms may be available upon request for an additional fee. Meals and laundry service are not included unless otherwise specified. All utilities and internet are included, though you may be charged an additional fee should your consumption exceed the allotted monthly amount. A refundable security deposit may be required for some options.
Meet the Team
Say hello to your support team—your go-to guides for living like a local. From restaurant tips and academic support to emergency assistance, they’re here to make your experience safe, smooth, and memorable. You can connect with them by email, phone, or through the WorldStrides Connections app while you’re abroad.
Meet all the friendly faces that will support you abroad on our team page.