Spend your January Term in Florence, the Renaissance capital of Italy, where you'll study in the heart of one of Europe's most historically rich and culturally vibrant cities. This immersive 16-day program, hosted by AIFS Abroad's Global Education Center, offers you the chance to earn up to 3 semester credits while exploring liberal arts, language, marketing, and fine arts in an unparalleled setting. You'll choose from courses in Art History, Watercolor Painting, Photography, Food Culture, Wine Marketing, Fashion Communication, or Italian Language—all taught in English by experienced instructors who bring the city itself into the classroom.

What makes this program distinctive is how Florence becomes your open-air classroom. Rather than studying art history in a traditional lecture hall, you'll view Michelangelo's David at the Accademia, tour the world-renowned Uffizi Museum, explore the Pitti Palace, and visit the Gucci Museum and leather factories to understand Italian fashion firsthand. Your art classes take place on location throughout the city, complemented by walking tours that reveal hidden treasures around every cobblestone corner. You'll visit Tuscan wineries, immerse yourself in local farmer's markets, and participate in artisans' workshops to gain authentic insights into Italian culture and craftsmanship.

The program includes housing in centrally-located apartments within walking distance of major landmarks, meal vouchers for local restaurants and cafes, and a rich calendar of cultural activities: Italian cooking classes, wine tastings, gelato tours, concerts, and events with the local community. A day trip to Siena and the Chianti region is included, allowing you to explore one of Italy's best-preserved medieval towns and taste wines from the world-famous vineyards. An optional 2-day excursion to Milan offers exposure to Italy's modern fashion and design capital, featuring visits to the Castello Sforzesco and the Fashion District.

You'll be supported throughout your stay by experienced AIFS staff, including Program Director Simona Michelotti, who has worked with the organization since 1998 and is passionate about helping students discover Italian culture. On-site student advisors provide academic guidance, help you adjust to life in Italy, and organize a welcome dinner and farewell reception. The program includes 24/7 emergency support, comprehensive health insurance, and carbon offsetting for all flights. An optional travel package offers round-trip flights from 25 U.S. cities and airport transfers, with prices varying by departure city (ranging from approximately $1,540 to $1,740).

This January Term program is ideal if you're seeking an intensive cultural and academic experience during winter break, whether you're a high school graduate, first-year, sophomore, junior, or senior with a minimum 2.5 GPA. You'll return with not only academic credit but also a deeper understanding of Renaissance art, Italian language and culture, European business practices, and the lived experience of one of the world's most beautiful cities. Rolling admissions mean you'll receive acceptance confirmation within 2 business days of completing your application.