First-Semester Study Abroad in Florence

Florence Highlights

For centuries, Florence has remained a fountain of inspiration and intellectual thought. Not only is Florence bursting with countless architectural and artistic achievements, but you’ll also find a bustling hub for European politics, business and international education.

The Syracuse Center in Florence, known as the Villa Rossa, is a welcoming campus of five historic buildings with a courtyard garden open to all to gather, study or be inspired. Here, you can take courses, classes, site visits and field trips that fuel your growth and further your academic and career goals.

We welcome and encourage all to experience Florence’s rich culture. You don’t need to speak Italian to enroll at Syracuse Florence. Italian language or literature will be part of your coursework.

I loved that we have the chance to start in studio our first year and gain hands-on experience right off the bat. Then in our fifth year, when we focus on a thesis and collaborate with faculty, we get a great transition to the working world.

Jenna Merry ’23 Architecture , School of Architecture

Read about her experience

Jenna Merry portrait with bridge and river behind her.

Life in Florence

Florence is considered one of the most student-friendly cities in the world. Students from around the globe choose Florence as a study abroad destination for its storied culture and beautiful environment. As one of the more walkable cities in Europe, Florence is easy to explore, making it a fun and affordable study abroad option.

Living with an Italian Host Family

In Florence, most students live with a host family, immersing themselves in an authentic Italian lifestyle and culture for a life-changing experience. Apartments are also available for architecture students and select studio arts students.

Insider Tips

Research the country beforehand.
Start learning some local phrases before you go.
Apply for study abroad scholarships.
Immerse yourself in local culture.
Don’t be afraid to try new things.
Be open to making all kinds of new friends.

Academics

Semester programs in Florence allow students to focus on Italian language, architecture, engineering, design and other specialty areas. From private viewings of museum archives to tours of non-public landmarks, study is supplemented by cultural learning experiences and opportunities unique to Syracuse University students.

Courses

Field study is central to many Syracuse Florence courses, with a range of topics that span disciplines. From history to business, you’ll engage with the evolving cultural identity of this renowned region.

You can expect a curriculum that is rigorous, innovative and distinguished by the same exceptional standards that apply to the Syracuse campus. Your Syracuse Florence courses may fulfill degree requirements so you can stay on track and time to graduate.

Study in Depth

Each Syracuse Abroad center offers depth in particular areas of study. At Syracuse Florence, these include:

Writing
Italian Language studies
Literature
History of Art
Political Science
Earth Science

Wondering if Florence is the right fit for you? Explore your Syracuse Abroad options to discover the program that best meets your academic goals.

First-Year Seminar

Join an optional three-credit Signature Seminar before or after the regular semester to engage with social, cultural and environmental issues that Europe and the world face today.

Program Field Study

An internship in Florence will allow you to apply classroom lessons to real work situations, explore career options and develop professional skills. An on-site internship coordinator will work with you to find the placement that best suits your interests and qualifications through established relationships in many business sectors of Florence.

View all advising options

Students at a study abroad information table.

Students drawing in Florence on architecture tour.

View of bridge and buildings across a river in Florence, Italy.