Quick facts
| Upcoming term | Summer, 2026 |
| Term dates | May 16, 2026 – June 28, 2026
(Arrive on the 16th/Book your departure flight to leave on June 28th. Residence Hall will close at noon on the 28th) |
| Application dates | March 20, 2026 |
| Program fees | 3-credit: $6,416, 6-credit: $7,392 |
| How to apply | Click here |
Overview
While living in Europe’s number one University town which is home to 100,000 students, one can complete up to six credit hours choosing from a list of core courses. Students will share a modern residence hall with 100 University of Bologna students, living and breathing the true Italian college life.
The Italy Center offers an intensive six-week summer session. You will be able to take either 3 or 6 credits (tuition reductions apply to the full 6 credit program – students enrolled in the 6 credit program, if interested, can take one online course through the Italy Center). Students will also explore other parts of Italy through seven days of social justice-focused travel to Sicily and Padova.
Program fee
3-credit: $6,416
6-credit: $7,392
Inclusions
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Partial board
- Supplementary travel insurance
- 7 days of travel on social justice tours
Exclusions
- Airfare to and from Italy
- Personal expenses
Course offerings
Courses subject to change based on student interest & enrollment numbers.
- Art History 299: Artbreakers: Italian Women Artists from Renaissance Era
- Biology 120: Farms to Pharmaceuticals
- Humanities 490: Social Justice Internship
- Business/Communication 376: Intercultural Communication
- Social Science 395: Immigration & Globalization (service-learning required)
- THL: 261 Introduction to World’s Religions & Discernment (Online)
Travel
You will spend 7 days traveling in Sicily and Padova, engaging with local communities and enterprises.
Sicily
The summer session will culminate in a tour of Southern Italy for all students enrolled in the Italy Center. Students will meet communities and activists working in one of Europe’s hottest migration points. There will be opportunities to speak to not-for-profit organizations committed to Social Justice, such as those reclaiming agricultural lands from the Mafia, where migrants are often exploited. There will be time to explore the crystal clear Mediterranean Sea, as well the inherent beauty of this part of the country, discover the cities’ local history, traditions, and architecture, and enjoy evenings encountering remarkable local cuisine and perhaps the best food you will taste in all of Europe.
Padova
This two-day summer trip takes students to Padova, one of Northern Italy’s most vibrant university cities and home to a legacy of great minds like Galileo, Dante, and Petrarch. Padova’s lively student atmosphere and passion for the aperitivo culture coexist beautifully with its Renaissance masterpieces and historic charm. Just a short train ride from Venice, Padova offers a more affordable, authentic experience away from heavy tourist crowds. The city also hosts several humanitarian projects dedicated to supporting people facing hardship, giving students a chance to connect cultural exploration with meaningful social engagement.
Art History day tour Parma
This is an optional tour and is not included in the program fee.
Parma is best known for its contributions to the world of food, but it also happens to be one Italy’s most beautiful cities known for its monuments, castles and art. The tour will be led by Italy Center’s Art Historian Piergiacomo Petrioli. Mandatory for all students enrolled in the Art History 299 course, open to all.
Additional information
Summer of service and internship
Students enrolled in the Social Science 395 course or in the Humanities HUM 490 course will be given the opportunity to undertake volunteer experiences in a local non-profit agency. Please note the HUM 490 course has a separate application process. Summer service and internship sites are assigned in May upon arrival.
Bonner Scholars
The Italy Center is endorsed by the Bonner Foundation and welcomes students to participate in our summer of service initiatives. Prior Bonner Scholars have acquired on average 100 hours of service-related work while in Europe. Contact the Italy Center for details regarding service sites and scholarship information.