Study Abroad Programs in Italy

Are you in the process of choosing a study abroad program, and perhaps narrowing down your list of potential destinations for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?  Have you considered studying in Italy, one of the most popular study-abroad locales in the world for international students?  If not, perhaps you should.  There are plenty of reasons why Italy continues to be a top destination for international students, and below we will examine and highlight some of this rationale to help make your decision process a little easier and more informed.

Why Study Abroad in Italy?

The Education System

In 1999, as a result of the Bologna Declaration, the higher education system in Italy received a tremendous makeover, and the results have been nothing short of spectacular.  Under this new system, there are now three cycles (ciclos), Corso di Laurea, or Bachelor Program, Corso di Laurea Magistrale, or Master Program, and Dottorato di Ricerca, or Doctorate.  The great part about this system is that not only does it bring Italy’s higher education into line with most other European countries; it is now quite similar to the United States’ university system, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by U.S. students wishing to study abroad.

In addition to the academic opportunities available for international students, Italy also boasts several Institutos Tecnico, or technical schools and Scuolas di Specializzazione, or specialized schools that focus on specific careers.  For adults wishing to study abroad there are also several Italian language schools, in which you can quickly learn to speak and understand the Italian language by being fully immersed in the language and culture.

The History, Sights and Culture

Often called the “boot” of Europe for its unique shape, Italy is located in the southern part of Europe, along the deep-blue tranquility of the Mediterranean.  The landscapes here, including majestic mountain peaks, rolling hills of vineyards and white sandy beaches, are simply breathtaking, and the warm climate allows students to see them all in perfect comfort.

The history of Italy is rich and well documented, some of which dates back two-and-a-half thousand years to the days of the Holy Roman Empire.  The seat of the Vatican is located here, and plays a major role in the intellectual, cultural and spiritual life of Italy’s people.

Students in Italy will never lack for things to do and see when they’re not studying.  From the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the ancient Coliseum to the Sistine Chapel, the country is a veritable treasure trove of interesting and historically significant sites.  Unlike some European and North American countries that seem to move at break-neck speed, the culture and way of life in Italy, from the way they work and eat, is never rushed.  Meals sometimes take days to prepare, and dining can span hours, as families take time to enjoy the fruits of their labor and each other.
This slow pace enables students to gain a full appreciation of Italy and its people.  

Few countries can boast the unique blend of history, culture, and must-see attractions found in Italy, and according to many of the international students studying abroad here, some of whom have returned several times, it is these factors, even more so than the excellence educational system, that most attracted them to this fascinating country.