Faculty-led Program in Italy

EARTH SCI 3336: Natural Resources and Civilizations  (3 credit hours)

• This course can fulfill a variety of credit options, including UNIFI: Responsibility category.

Students will investigate the environmental and subsequent sociopolitical implications of climate change upon Mediterranean cultures.  Along the way, students will gain an understanding of Italy’s cultural past, present, and future then apply this knowledge to their own education/life! The cultural center of this course will focus on the Mediterranean (including the Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans). Students will explore medieval castles, walk through Greek temples, swim in the Mediterranean Sea, eat some amazing Italian food, summit the top of the world's largest church (St. Peter's Basilica in Rome), create their own adventures in the Roman Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon and much more! 

No prerequisites are required for this program and all majors are welcome! Participation in this program requires several class meetings during the Spring semester, although the course is scheduled as a Summer session course. Course meetings will cover important travel/preparation information as well as academic content to help with the project you will complete abroad. Learning materials will be provided online in addition to two or more in-person spring meetings.  Please contact the program's course leader for more information on academic requirements. The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in the course. 

Talk to your academic advisor about how this course would work for you!

NOTES:

• Students planning to participate in the spring commencement ceremony in May can enroll in this summer term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the summer term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.
• Students attending colleges and universities other than UNI are welcome to participate in this program. If you are not currently a UNI student, but would like to participate in this program, please contact the UNI Study Abroad Center prior to starting your program application.

The 2026 Italy study abroad program invites students on a dynamic journey through historic cities, natural landscapes, and archaeological treasures to explore the interplay between civilizations and their environments. From Rome's ancient monuments and the Vatican to Sicily’s coastal towns and volcanic islands, students engage in guided tours of cultural landmarks and ecological sites—like the prehistoric caves of Levanzo and the ruins of Pompeii and Segesta. Integrating field excursions, museum visits, and interactions with local heritage, the program reveals how societies have shaped and been shaped by their natural surroundings across time.

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Hotel accommodations for students will be arranged in advance by the Study Abroad Center and fully included in the total cost of the program. Also included in the program cost are select meals during the program. For all other meals, students are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to explore local cuisine and dining experiences. 

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet your Advisor:

Stephanie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to Italy, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more. From your First Steps meeting until you take off for your new adventure,  Stephanie will help you every step of the way. 

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to Italy