Overview
Bring your studies to life in Florence—Italy’s artistic capital and a hub for food, fashion, and hospitality. This summer program at Florence University of the Arts blends classroom learning with hands-on experiences across fields like business, hospitality, and studio art.
Quick Facts
Host University
Terms
Eligibility
2.75 minimum GPA (see academics for exceptions), 18+ years old
Housing
Program Details
Picture yourself walking to class past Renaissance palaces and open-air markets, then diving into coursework that uses Florence itself as your learning lab. Through this program at the Florence University of the Arts (FUA), you’ll choose from a range of English-taught courses in subjects such as hospitality, marketing, management, Italian culture, and the arts—no Italian language experience required. FUA emphasizes experiential learning, so you’ll gain practical skills through site visits, fieldwork, and optional placements designed to deepen your engagement with the local culture and your area of study. Each course also includes a field trip component to make learning more immersive. You’ll enroll in one course per summer session, taught by international and local faculty alongside students from around the world. Extend your studies by pairing two or more sessions together.
From the moment you land to the day you leave, our team is here for you. You’ll be greeted at the airport and 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 immersive excursions and 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. Join cultural experiences like local cooking classes or tours of Florence’s famous leather district, and enjoy a day trip to Siena and neighboring Tuscan towns to round out your summer of academic and cultural discovery.
Dates & Fees
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : May Start 2026, 6-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : May Start 2026, 9-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : May Start 2026, 12-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : Early June Start 2026, 3-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : Early June Start 2026, 6-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : Early June Start 2026, 9-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : Late June Start 2026, 3-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : Late June Start 2026, 6-week
Summer at Florence University of the Arts : July Start 2026, 3-week
Stories from Abroad
Hear what recent study abroad students are saying about their journeys overseas.
What's Included
Tuition & Official Transcript
Cultural Activities & Excursions
Housing & Internet
Local Team Support
Airport Reception
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 3-week session:
Credits: 3
Contact Hours: 45
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.
Excursions and Activities
Discover more abroad through curated excursions and cultural activities designed to immerse you in the local culture. From guided city tours to hands-on activities and weekend getaways, 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. Optional excursions require an additional fee.
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.