Study Abroad in Florence
- Apply By: May 15, 2025
- Cost: USD $ 5670
Summer
- Cohort 1: June 01 – June 28, 2025
- Cohort 2: July 01 – July 28, 2025
Semester
- Fall ‘25: Sep 05 – Nov 29, 2025
- Spring ‘26: Jan 16 – Apr 11, 2026
Time Left to Apply
Why Study Abroad in Florence?
Italy offers a fascinating case study for sustainability—having led the way in the Slow Food movement, it is also actively pursuing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by focusing on innovation in areas like sustainable infrastructure, circular economy, renewable energy, and smart city development. But it also faces significant challenges, such as migration, regional disparities, and over-tourism.
In addition to its rich history, art and culture, Florence is leading the way in sustainable tourism, and undergoing what some call a second, green Renaissance with new parks, micro-mobility and other transport initiatives, and an integrated urban planning framework.
With its easy rail connections to other Italian cities, students can compare, contrast, and taste the richness of both past and present that Italy offers.
Curriculum
Summer (6 credits)
- Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning - 3 credits
- Sustainable Development in Context: Italy - 3 credits
Semester (12-15 credits)
- Internship or Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning - 3 credits (Required)
- Sustainable Development in Context: Italy - 3 credits (Required)
- Language & Electives - 6-9 creditS
Course Descriptions
Sustainable Development in Context: Italy
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) offer a roadmap for a global future that promotes human flourishing and healthy ecosystems. They are multidisciplinary in nature, spanning human rights, public health, education, gender, economics, energy, urban design, and ecology. Though the SDGs are global in their aim and vision, how they are engaged and achieved varies according to national and regional factors. Using Florence as classroom and case study, this course examines the aspirations and realities of the UN SDGs through the lens of Italy and the greater European context. Through lectures, field visits, and project work, students engage deeply with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications related to sustainable development, developing their analytical, research, and practical problem-solving skills and preparing them to engage effectively with the global sustainability agenda.
Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning
Innovation in Action: Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a hands-on course designed to explore the emerging field of social entrepreneurship and innovation while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. This course will provide a comprehensive overview of how innovation drives sustainable and impactful solutions to social and environmental problems. Through real-world, team-based projects, students will engage with innovation in three essential contexts: the public, private, and citizen sectors, social enterprises (nonprofit, for-profit, and hybrid models), and social transformation across entire systems. Students will have the opportunity to apply theories and methodologies learned through prior coursework and their experience abroad, developing practical solutions that foster social change on local, national, and international levels.
Electives
Students can select from various electives that align with the SDGs, depending on their academic interests. These may include courses in international relations, business ethics, global health, sustainability, and more.
Language
Language learning is essential for cultural immersion and building a deeper connection to the local community. Students in non-English speaking location will complete language courses to enhance their experience.
Where You'll Study
Authentica Florence is located in the very heart of the city between the neighborhood of Santa Croce and the lively and vibrant area of Sant’Ambrogio.
It is located in an historical rectangular piazza, once surrounded by wrought-iron railings, consists of a series of pathways and flower beds but was originally conceived as a lawn with high trees and a small hexagonal pool enlivened by a jet of water. The square is very popular with residents taking their “siesta” under the shade of its centuries-old trees.
Authentica’s classrooms and student support services, with its dedicated staff, are ready to address student questions and concerns. With a patio and student lounge, the center offers a welcoming space for studying and socializing with other students.
Staff
Lorenzo Ciccarelli
Lorenzo Ciccarelli, a seasoned education abroad professional with 25 years’ experience managing international programs in Florence, is a passionate advocate for cross-cultural education. Born in Florence, his boundless curiosity and deep connection to cultural exploration drive his approach to student development. He excels in empowering students during their educational journeys abroad, helping them become agents of positive change for a more sustainable and equitable world. His dedication to high-quality international education shapes transformative student experiences.
Where You'll Stay
You will be living within 25 minutes walking distance from your school. You can choose between a homestay or shared apartment.
- Apartments
- Shared bedroom (maximum 3 students per room)
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Shared bathroom with shower (1 bathroom per apartment)
- Bed linens included—NO towels
- WiFi access
- Washer only
- Fans provided during the summer months
- 1 cleaning service in the common areas per month
- *Homestay
- Single bedroom
- Limited kitchen use
- Shared bathroom
- Breakfast and dinner served 7 days a week
- Bed linens and towels included
- Access to a washing machine once per week for laundry
- Fans available (summer months only)
*This housing option may carry a supplemental fee which may vary based on housing inclusions (i.e. meals, amenities, etc.)
Co-Curriculum
To enhance and enrich the formal curriculum, we offer a robust slate of co-curricular programming focusing on SDGs, professional development, and experiential learning. Field visits in and around the city expose students to SDG-related issues, organizations, and initiatives they would not otherwise have access to. Workshops, seminars, volunteering, and networking events focus on sustainable business practices and professional development skills. This co-curriculum is crafted to enrich students’ understanding of critical global issues while preparing them for the workforce.
Program Dates
Summer
- Cohort 1: June 01 – June 28, 2025
- Cohort 2: July 01 – July 28, 2025
Semester
- Fall ‘25: Sep 05 – Nov 29, 2025
- Spring ‘26: Jan 16 – Apr 11, 2026
Price
- USD $ 5670
Application Requirements
Matriculation in a US-accredited college or university. Good academic and disciplinary standing. 2.5 GPA.
Program Inclusions
One day excursion to one of the following destinations:
A sustainable farm
A medieval town in Tuscany
The university city of Bologna
Pisa and Lucca
Siena and San Gimignano
Guided visit of a major Florence museum
Guided market visit and cooking class
Italian language class: 3 mornings, 2 hours each
Welcome and farewell dinners
Walking neighborhood orientation
24/7 Authentica staff assistance
Airport pickup and transportation to accommodation
Two weekly co-curricular activities in the city of Florence
Bus pass for the duration of the program
All course materials
International Insurance coverage
Ready to apply?
Fill out the Apply Now form.
Have any questions?
Let us know through the Inquire Now form.
Need help? Contact our student advisor at gina@authentica.com or +1480-628-8843 | +1800-414-4138