Program Description

JMU’s Semester in Florence permits students from all majors to enjoy the cultural richness of the city of Florence and of Italy more broadly. Students encounter Renaissance art; the interplay among food, wine, & Italian culture; Italian and U.S. marketing approaches; Italian and non-Italian literature about Florence; and a course on global issues and issue advocacy. No previous background in the Italian language is required and all courses are taught in English. All students will take a required course on modern Italy that positions them to make the most of their time abroad. 

While in Florence, students are required to take 16 credits (fall semester, spring semester) or 10 credits (summer semester). Students can complete up to 9 credits toward JMU’s General Education requirements during the fall & spring and at least 3 credits in the summer program. In fall or spring, Hospitality Management majors can complete two HM courses and one General Business Minor course. In the summer they normally can take 1 HM course and 1 business minor course (or sometimes 2 HM courses). All SIF students can also earn 6 to 9 credits toward the Modern European Studies minor.

Courses are offered in the following subjects:                        

For more information on the specific courses – including which courses are offered in all 3 SIF sessions and which ones are not typically offered during the (shorter) summer program – see the Academics webpage on this site.

Program Dates