Study Abroad in Florence, Italy
- Spring 2027
- January 15 – April 11, 2027
- 12–15 Credits
- US $18,580
- Apply by: November 16, 2026
Time Left:
- Summer 2027
- Cohort 1: May 30 – June 26, 2027
- Cohort 2: July 04 – July 31, 2027
- 3 credits (+3 free with optional 2nd course)
- US $5,630
- Apply by: May 10, 2027
Time Left:
- Fall 2027
- September 11 – December 05, 2027
- 12–15 credits
- US $18,580
- Apply by: July 19, 2027
Time Left:
Get a Flight Credit of up to $500 When You Apply
Why Study Abroad in Florence?
Authentica’s study abroad in Florence is a sustainability semester ($18,580, 12–15 credits) or summer ($5,630, 3 credits, +3 free with a second course) that uses the city itself — CDP-recognized on climate action, roughly 12 million annual visitors against about 400,000 residents — as a live case study, transcripted by Westcliff University, with direct transatlantic routing.
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
School of Record:
Authentica courses are transcripted by our School of Record, Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU).
Carnegie Rule:
Authentica follows the 2:1 Carnegie Rule for outside-of-class work: students are expected to spend roughly two hours studying and completing assignments out of class for every hour spent in class.
Florence Program Concentrations
1 Food, Culture & Sustainability
Examine the connections between food systems, cultural heritage, and sustainability in the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. Students explore culinary traditions, ethical consumerism, and sustainable development, paired with field visits to local producers. The program equips students to analyze how food culture shapes communities and influences global policy.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- The Slow Food Movement: Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsFood Studies · Nutrition · Anthropology · Hospitality Management · Environmental Studies · Public Health
2 Design, Fashion & Circular Economy
Based in one of the world’s fashion capitals, this program blends design innovation with circular economy practices. Students study sustainable fashion, ethical production, and material innovation while exploring recycling initiatives and eco-conscious business models. The program prepares students to assess the social and environmental impact of the global fashion industry.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production (3) or Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- The Slow Food Movement: Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsFashion Design · Fashion Merchandising · Marketing · Industrial Design · Business · Textile Science
3 Urban Futures & Climate Resilience
Focused on sustainable cities, this program introduces students to urban planning, green architecture, and renewable energy systems. Through case studies and field visits, students analyze how historic cities balance heritage with climate resilience. Coursework emphasizes innovative solutions to air quality, mobility, and sustainable development challenges.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies (3) or Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- The Slow Food Movement: Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsUrban Planning · Architecture · Geography · Civil Engineering · Environmental Studies · Public Policy
4 Politics & Sustainability
Students investigate how governance shapes environmental outcomes, with emphasis on the EU’s Green Deal and international climate policy. Courses cover renewable energy policy, environmental justice, and sustainable development strategies. The program cultivates critical insight into the political frameworks driving global sustainability initiatives.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- The Slow Food Movement: Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsPolitical Science · International Relations · Public Policy · Pre-Law · Environmental Policy · Government
5 Heritage, Art & the Environment
Florence’s rich cultural heritage serves as a living classroom to study the intersection of preservation and sustainability. Students explore how communities balance tourism, climate pressures, and conservation while safeguarding historic and artistic treasures. The program integrates site visits with analysis of UNESCO practices and community-led preservation models.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges (3) or Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- The Slow Food Movement: Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy
Related MajorsArt History · Museum Studies · Historic Preservation · Anthropology · Archaeology · Cultural Studies
6 Energy & Innovation
This program highlights the transition to renewable energy and the role of innovation in shaping sustainable futures. Students engage in project-based learning on social entrepreneurship, paired with coursework on renewable energy systems and circular business models. The program fosters applied problem-solving skills in energy policy and technological innovation.
Core Courses (6 credits)
- Sustainable Energy Systems: Transition to Renewable Energy (3)
- Sustainable Development in Context (3) or Innovation in Action (3)
Electives
- The Slow Food Movement: Sustainability & Tradition in Culinary Culture
- Sustainable Urban Planning: Case Studies
- Eco-Tourism & Conservation in Natural Reserves
- Sustainable Fashion: Ethical Design & Production
- Circular Economy: Local Practices & Global Implications
- The Politics of Sustainability: Policies & Governance
- Sustainability & Heritage: Balancing Preservation with Environmental Challenges
Related MajorsEngineering (Mechanical / Environmental / Energy) · Entrepreneurship · Business · Environmental Science
Course Syllabi
Florence Courses
Studying sustainability presents an exciting opportunity to blend global environmental challenges with unique socio-cultural, historical, and environmental contexts. Learn in a country rich in natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and regional diversity, which offers numerous possibilities for exploring sustainability from various angles.
LOCATION
TERM
THEME
DISCIPLINE
Core Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Core Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
Elective Course
- 45 Hrs
- 3 Credits
- No Prereqs
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 & Price
Spring 2027
Spring Semester
Summer 2027
Summer Cohorts
Cohort 2: July 04 – July 31, 2027
Fall 2027
Fall Semester
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
Florence Program
Frequently asked questions
Direct answers first — including the one most program pages avoid.
What will a semester in Florence actually cost, all-in?
The published program fee is $18,580 for a 12–15 credit semester — and because a fee is not a budget, here is the rest of the math, stated as a dated estimate:
| Included in your program fee | |
| Housing (homestay or shared apartment) | Included |
| Transit pass · international insurance · course materials | Included |
| Airport pickup · co-curriculars · Tuscany excursion · orientation | Included |
| Program fee | $18,580 |
| Plan for separately | |
| Round-trip flights (major US gateways) | $700 – $1,200 |
| Meals & groceries (full semester) | $1,800 – $2,400 |
| Student visa & residence permit fees | ≈ $200 |
| Personal spending & weekend travel | $900 – $1,400 |
| Realistic all-in total | ≈ $22,200 – $23,800 |
Estimates are estimates: dated July 2026, refreshed each term, and your own spending will vary. Apply the JetSet credit of up to $750 and any SCALE award against this total.
What is included in the Florence program fee?
Housing, airport pickup and transfer, a public transportation pass, international insurance, all course materials, two weekly co-curricular activities, an Italian language class, a guided museum visit, a market visit and cooking class, a one-day Tuscany-region excursion, welcome and farewell dinners, a neighborhood orientation, and 24/7 Authentica staff assistance.
When are the Florence application deadlines?
Spring 2027 closes November 16, 2026 · Summer 2027 closes May 10, 2027 · Fall 2027 closes July 19, 2027. The deadline is the number to plan around — program dates are confirmed on acceptance.
Does financial aid apply to the Florence program?
In most cases institutional and federal aid can travel with you for credit-bearing programs — confirm the specifics with your financial aid office early, not at deposit time. On top of that, Authentica adds SCALE scholarships for need- and merit-based support and a JetSet flight credit of up to $750 when you apply.
How do credits work in Florence?
Semesters carry 12–15 credits; the summer term carries 3 credits, with an optional second course adding 3 more free. Courses run 45 contact hours per 3 credits, follow the 2:1 Carnegie Rule for out-of-class work, and are transcripted by our School of Record, Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU).
Where will I live in Florence?
Your choice: a homestay with a local family or a shared apartment (maximum three students per room) — both within a 25-minute walk of the school, between Santa Croce and Sant'Ambrogio. Homestays may carry a supplemental fee.
What support is on the ground in Florence?
An Authentica team led by our Program Director for Italy is on the ground throughout the term, backed by 24/7 staff assistance and the international insurance included in your fee. Orientation starts in your own neighborhood on day one.
Looking for ways to fund your experience?
Authentica standard programs are based in popular study abroad destinations for US undergraduates, but we aim to approach and engage our locations in distinctive, highly intentional ways.
Ready to apply?
Fill out the Apply Now form.
Have any questions?
Let us know through the Inquire Now form.
Need help? Contact us at info@authentica.com
Latest Blogs
Top Study Abroad Destinations 2027–28: The New Map of Student Demand
This is Part 4 of Reading the Signals, our five-part series on the newest 2026 US study abroad research. Parts 1–3 covered demand, cost, and safety. This part reads the destination map those forces drew.
Study Abroad Safety in 2026–27: Why It’s Now Table Stakes
This is Part 3 of Reading the Signals, our five-part series for study abroad offices planning 2026–27 and beyond. Part 1 read the demand data; Part 2 took on cost. This part covers the concern that carries the most emotional weight in every family conversation: safety.