Spend your January Term immersed in Florence, one of the world's most culturally rich cities and the birthplace of the Renaissance. This intensive two-week program at AIFS Abroad's Global Education Center puts you in the heart of historic Florence, within walking distance of the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Accademia. You'll earn up to 3 semester credits through courses taught in English, choosing from Art History, Watercolor Painting, Photography, Food Culture, Wine Marketing, Fashion Communication, or Italian Language. What makes this program distinctive is how Florence itself becomes your classroom—you won't just study art history; you'll stand before Michelangelo's David at the Accademia, tour the Uffizi Museum, and explore the Pitti Palace with your professors. If you choose Fashion Communication, you'll visit the Gucci Museum and leather factories to understand Italy's luxury fashion heritage. Art students will work on location throughout the city, capturing Florence's hidden treasures through watercolor and photography in its most picturesque settings.

Beyond academics, you'll experience authentic Italian culture through hands-on activities designed to deepen your understanding of the country. Participate in Italian cooking classes, wine tastings in the famous Chianti region, visits to artisans' workshops, and gelato tours. The program includes a full day excursion to Siena and the Chianti area—one of the world's most renowned wine regions—where you'll taste local wines and explore one of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns. An optional two-day trip to Milan (estimated $450) offers insight into Italy's modern side, including fashion district exploration and visits to masterpiece-filled museums.

Your housing is in centrally-located student apartments with shared kitchens, living spaces, and fully furnished double bedrooms near public transportation. The program provides 10 breakfast/lunch vouchers and 10 dinner vouchers to use at local restaurants, trattorias, coffee shops, and grocery stores, giving you flexibility to explore Florence's world-class cuisine. Internet is included in all housing. You'll be supported throughout by AIFS Abroad's on-site Program Director and Student Advisors, with 24/7 emergency support and comprehensive insurance included in your program fee.

This January Term is ideal if you want to maximize your winter break with transformative international education without sacrificing a full semester. You'll return home with 3 credits toward your degree, a deeper understanding of Renaissance art and Italian culture, practical language skills (if you choose the Italian course), and memories of living in one of Europe's most beautiful cities. The program welcomes first-year through senior undergraduates and high school graduates with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Rolling admissions means you can expect acceptance confirmation within 2 working days of completing your application.