Stonehill College in Florence
QUICK FACTS
| HOST INSTITUTION | Lorenzo de’ Medici Institute |
|---|---|
| LANGUAGE & ACADEMICS | Open to all Italian levels. Classes are taught in English, except for Italian language classes and some Italian literature classes. Subject areas include: Art History, International Business, Architecture, Fine Arts, Archaeology and Classical Studies, Marketing and Communications, Public Relations, Writing, Studio Art, Sociology, Science, Wine and Cuisine, Photography, Fashion Design and Merchandising, Restoration and Conservation Studies, Graphic and Interior Design, Jewelry Design. Internships available. |
| HOUSING | Shared Apartments |
| SAMPLE OVERNIGHT EXCURSIONS | Venice, Rome, Assisi and Perugia |
| SAMPLE DAY EXCURSIONS | Siena, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Lucca |
| PROGRAM CALENDARS | See "Dates & Deadlines" tab |
THE CITY
Full of art, history, and amazing food, Florence is one of Italy’s most exhilarating, distinctive, and beautiful cities. Located in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is almost in the center of the Italian peninsula with rail lines running in all directions, making travel within Italy and abroad quite easy. Even a quick trip to Chianti, located between Florence and Siena, will fill your camera with photos of the breathtaking Italian countryside.
This enchanting symbol of the Renaissance has it all. Michelangelo’s David and works by Botticelli, Benvenuto, Cellini, and Donatello are at your fingertips, as is the vast collection of the Uffizi Gallery and the sculptures of the Bargello. If you prefer architecture to art, the 13th century cathedral, the Duomo, is just a short walk from your apartment and the university.
Not all of the art in Florence can be found hanging in museums. Florentine food is sometimes revered with the same intensity as its art. While you’re enjoying some of the freshest foods in the world, don’t forget to save room for some delicious Italian gelato!
lorenzo de’ medici institute (ldm)
Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM) Florence is situated right at the heart of the birthplace of the Renaissance, where art, architecture, philosophy, and civic liberalism changed the Medieval world and still influence life today. LdM’s main campus has its head office on Via Faenza, a street dating back to 13th-century Florence. The main building was once a convent connected to the now deconsecrated church of San Jacopo in Campo Corbolini, which belonged to the Knights Templar.
In a city with such a rich historical importance, LdM Florence is primed to be the ideal choice for students interested in studying architecture, fine arts, fashion design, anthropology, and Italian language and culture. With over 400 courses to chose from, LdM’s students challenge their thinking and expand their perspective on a global level while learning both inside and outside the classroom. Students have the opportunity to explore and utilize the resources of the city – including its art, architecture, and cultural history – as part of their educational development.
Student Services AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Lorenzo de’ Medici provides all students guidance and support by experienced Student Advisors to make sure their study abroad adventure is a success. LdM Florence students have the chance to explore the many Renaissance landmarks of Florence, which capture the imagination like nowhere else in the world. All students are invited to attend art and cultural events, visit local markets, and experience a life rich in tradition, art, and history. Besides the many cultural activities offered, students have the possibility to join clubs and volunteer for community art projects to enrich their academic experience.
LdM also offers the opportunity to explore by organizing tours to historical towns and many seasonal activities, which help to develop new perspectives on the history and diversity of modern Italian life. Students discover the hidden intricacies of Italian culture through hands-on learning experiences that provide an academic perspective of Florence’s centuries-old traditions.
LdM has also cultivated relationships with various charities and organizations around Florence for those who are interested in volunteer work, such as working for food banks, distributing clothing to the needy, collaborating with community clean-ups or teaching English at local schools.
COURSE OFFERINGS
SEMESTER PROGRAMS:
Lorenzo de’ Medici
Application Deadlines: See “Dates & Deadlines” tab
Language Requirement: It is mandatory for Stonehill students to take an Italian Language course. Courses are available in English and Italian.
Additional Requirements: Minimum GPA 2.8. Must have completed at least 2 semesters before applying. For complete requirements, please see the “Eligibility” tab.
Possible U.S. Credits: 12-15 semester credits (4-5 courses). Students who enroll in more than 15 credits will be charged an additional fee per credit.
Final Transcript: Issued by Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM). Transcripts will be issued approximately 8-10 weeks after the completion of the program.
**Students are advised to APPLY EARLY for the best course selection, as classes are assigned on a first come, first served basis. If you are concerned about getting into a particular class, please call us at 888-845-4272 to confirm availability.
COURSE PRE-APPROVAL AND PRE-REGISTRATION
You must have DOUBLE the number of courses approved than you actually plan to take, in case your top choices are not available or there are schedule conflicts.
On the Course Pre-registration Form you will complete for ASA after being accepted, you will have to list one alternate class for each of your top choices. All Stonehill students are required to take an Italian language course suitable to their proficiency – from beginning to advanced options. It is also essential that you indicate which courses are essential/mandatory for your degree. This will be taken into account when LdM approves your selections.
Course registration is on a first-come first serve basis, and all courses must meet a minimum enrollment requirement to run.
COURSE/LAB FEES (NOT INCLUDED)
Some LdM classes have course/lab fees that cover required equipment, materials, books, etc. which are not included in the ASA program fee. Many studio arts, cuisine and wine appreciation courses require a lab fee that is paid by students upon arrival. In addition, courses may require that students pay for visits and field trips as noted in the course descriptions. Students will pay applicable course fees directly to Lorenzo de’ Medici after arrival.
Click here for Fall 2023 & Spring 2024 course fees. Course fees are subject to change.
COURSE offerings & schedules
CLICK HERE TO SEE AVAILABLE COURSE OFFERINGS: Course Schedule (RIGHT CLICK TO OPEN IN A NEW TAB!)
Choose “Florence” as a Site and the Term you are applying for to bring up the correct term course schedule. You can search particular courses by choosing a ‘department,’ or if you just want to see all the courses, don’t choose a department and you can scroll through all the courses. Course offerings and schedules are subject to change.
All Stonehill students are required to take an Italian language course suitable to their proficiency – from beginning to advanced options. Non-beginning language students will take a placement test on site to confirm their level and LdM reserves the right to move students into a different level based on the results of said placement test.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS (SYLLABI)
ASA is happy to email you detailed syllabi/course descriptions for all classes you are interested in taking. Simply send an email to hello@academicstudies.com and include the Course Code and Course Title.
Internship Opportunities
Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM) credit-bearing internships offer the possibility to learn different aspects of working in Italy, a country known for its artisan and small business structure. Students get to know the characteristics and structure of the Italian workplace. Participating in an Internship during your study abroad program in Florence, is a fantastic way to gain work experience, meet Italian people, and add a unique bullet point to your résumé! You will have the opportunity to experience Italian culture in a much deeper and more hands-on way than your classmates who aren’t doing internships!
Students attending LdM for a semester or year can earn 3 credits for an Internship alongside their other classes. Internships are NOT stand-alone, but take the place of one of your classes at LDM. Internship credits will count toward the total number of credits a student is allowed to take during their academic term. There is no additional fee for credit-bearing Internships.
LdM arranges internships in subject areas such as Communications, Public Relations and Event Planning, Art History, Sport and Web Marketing, Journalism, International Business, Advertising, Education, Fashion Design and Merchandising, Museum Studies, and Graphic Design.
Students taking an internship must retain a minimum of 15 credits per semester. Concurrent enrollment in a course in the same field is required. The application for an LdM internship is due by the application deadline, along with the required supporting documentation. Placement in internships is not guaranteed and choosing an alternate course is mandatory.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
•Student’s resumé
•Formal letter of intent - student should discuss their reason for applying, expectations about the internship, and a detailed description of the duties in which the student would like to partake.
•Two reference letters
•Portfolio
•Writing sample
•Refer to Internship descriptions in Course Schedule for further required documentation
All Internships are for-credit and unpaid.
IMPORTANT: You will be required to complete up to 150 work hours, in addition to your class hours. Work hours typically take place on weekdays (Monday through Friday), but some internships may require weekend hours as well. You will not be able to choose your Internship hours – they will be assigned to you, but they will not conflict with your classes.
excursions
ASA semester programs include 1 overnight excursion and 2 day excursions. Destinations may vary by term. Past terms have included trips to:
Venice (overnight excursion) - Venice is in northeastern Italy and situated on a group of 118 small islands, which are separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. You are sure to love taking a ride on the classic Venetian boat, called a gondola, and wandering the city’s winding streets! The water views, charming buildings, and the famous Bridge of Sighs are sure to capture your imagination. Explore the famous St. Mark’s Basilica as well as the rest of this ancient and historically important city.
Rome (overnight excursion) - Rome, the capital of Italy, is known as “The Eternal City” and has a history spanning an incredible 28 centuries. The city’s attractions are almost too numerous to name: the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps…the list goes on! Many of you will recognize the city of Rome from movies such as Lizzie McGuire, Ocean’s Twelve, Eat Pray Love, Roman Holiday, and dozens more.
Assisi and Perugia (overnight excursion) – Visit Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, as well as Perugia, the capital of Umbria, a city of major historical significance in the art world. Perugia is also famous for its gianduja – a rich and delicious hazelnut-chocolate blend, like Nutella but so much better!
Siena (day excursion) – Siena was founded by the Etruscans in 900-400 BC, and the historic center of this city is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the famous Piazza del Campo, public games and sport have taken place since medieval times, including jousting and horse races. The tradition of horse racing continues to this day with the bi-annual Palio di Siena. You’ll also visit the 12th century Siena Cathedral. The floors of the Cathedral are works of art in and of themselves, with elaborate inlaid marble pictorials of Biblical themes, as well as Greek and Roman mythical figures.
Pisa (day excursion) - The town of Pisa is renowned worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower. The city sits along the banks of the Arno River, its historic center a testament to its rich past as a maritime republic and a major trading power during the Middle Ages. With its riverside promenades, bustling markets, and delightful cafes, Pisa has a perfect blend of history, art, and Italian charm.
EXPERIENCES
Getting out and exploring on your own is one of the best parts about studying abroad. Here are just a few of the unforgettable experiences you can have abroad with ASA!
Did you go abroad with ASA and have a memorable experience we should add to this list? Email us at hello@academicstudies.com!
HOUSING
Students live in shared apartments. Rooms are double occupancy. Bathrooms are shared.
Meals are not included, but each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen/common area shared by all occupants. Apartments may be single gender or all gender; typically 4-6 students per apartment. All ASA student housing includes Internet access and is located in safe neighborhoods, within a reasonable distance from school.
HOUSING FAQ
+ Can I room with a friend?
Yes, in most cases we are able to accommodate you if you request to live with a same-sex friend or friends. Mixed gender roommate requests can sometimes be accommodated as well (but you will not be sharing a room). Please keep in mind that roommate requests must be mutual, so be sure your friend requests you back! You will complete a detailed Housing Questionnaire after being accepted to the program, and on this form you can give us the name(s) of those you want to live with.
+ When will I find out where I’ll be living?
ASA will notify you of your living arrangements via email approximately 1-2 weeks before the start of your program. You will receive a detailed description of your apartment and the location, as well as your roommates' names and email addresses.
+ Will I have a roommate?
Yes, you will have a roommate, as well as several housemates/flatmates.
+ What should I bring with me?
A detailed list of what to bring (and what not to bring) will be included in your ASA pre-departure handbook, which will be emailed to you about a month before your program begins.
+ Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, and grocery stores are within walking distance.
+ How far will I live from school?
Most apartments are within a 15-25 minute walk from your classes. Please rest assured that we place a high priority on location, and all ASA students live within a reasonable distance from their classes!
Accessibility & Inclusion
Diversifying study abroad is a priority for ASA. Detailed information for underrepresented groups considering Florence is below. You should also check out Diversity Abroad’s Italy Travel Guide.
If you have questions or concerns about how any of your identities may impact your study abroad experience, please call us at 617-327-9388 or email hello@academicstudies.com.
+ Culture & Ethnicity
Italy has a majority population of ethnic Italians. However, there are minority groups such as ethnic Albanians and Romanians, and around 1.5% of the population is of African heritage. See also the Diversity Abroad Travel Guide for Italy.
Here are some Black haircare products and hairstyling resources in Florence:
- For women, Black Beauty Firenze has a selection of haircare products, as well as services like box-braids, dread-locking, sew-ins, extensions, haircuts, and wig styling. Some great tips from a past study abroad student in Florence can be found here.
- For men in need of hairstyling, there’s Pyfany barbershop/salon which serves both men and women. In addition, there’s a barbershop called Jouvial (click here and here).
- On the same street where Jouvial is located (Via Palazzuolo), together with Via Panicale, there are shops that sell haircare products.
- Hairstylist and influencer, Reina Gomez, has her own salon in Florence and her own line of haircare products. She is of Dominican & Venezuelan descent and has a passion for caring for curly hair. Check out her TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook.
You should probably bring your favorite haircare products with you and enough to last your entire stay, because you won’t find the same brands/variety/accessibility of products that you’re used in the US. Here are some helpful tips on Black haircare products and tools to bring with you.
You can also check out the Diversity Abroad guide to managing Black hair abroad.
+ Disability Accommodation
Italy’s ‘Stanca Act’ and ‘Disposizioni per favorire l’accesso dei soggetti disabili agli strumenti informatici’ have helped to ensure that the accessibility requirements needed by disabled persons are met including integration into schools, work, and society, as well as trying to aid autonomy and participation in social life.
However, Italy can present a challenge for disabled travelers due to cobbled streets, hilly cities, and historic buildings with stairs. Venice has many humpback bridges across the canals, only a handful of which have ramps. Cinque Terre and parts of Tuscany have narrow, uneven pathways and winding cobbled streets, so travelers with reduced mobility may not get the most out of their trip in these destinations. This can be overcome with research and planning.
Many public transportation systems, including much of the national rail network and the vaporetto boats in Venice, have been adapted for accessibility. Assistance can be provided, especially if requested in advance. Many attractions can be accessed free of charge or at a reduced rate by people with disabilities. Travelers who book official tours of landmarks will receive assistance from guides. Additional information can be found here.
We encourage you to open a dialogue with us so we can assess accessibility in housing and academic spaces.
The U.S. State Department has advice for international travelers with disabilities at this link.
+ Food
Housing is in shared apartments, where you can prepare your own meals. Did you know Italy is widely considered the #1 best country for gluten free travelers? It’s true, just google it!
Resources for dietary needs for allergies, religious beliefs, or other preferences below. We strongly encourage you to order food/allergy translation cards to help communicate your needs while abroad.
+ Financial Aid & Money Matters
ASA allows payment deferral until your institution releases your Financial Aid, and we offer payment plans upon request to students who need it. More information on billing and payment can be found here.
ASA also has several scholarships you can apply for within our program application. Students who receive a Pell Grant as part of their Financial Aid package are eligible to apply for the Gilman Scholarship.
+ First Generation
ASA provides hands-on support throughout the entire process. This includes housing, course registration, flight and arrival logistics, and student visa guidance. While you're abroad, our on-site staff is available to support you 24/7. They coordinate social and cultural activities and offer guidance on the local culture, to give you and your support system peace of mind throughout your program. We also have an online orientation for parents/families/support systems at this link.
+ Gender Identity & Sexuality
We welcome students with any gender identity and sexuality on all of our programs. Florence is one of the most welcoming locations in Italy for people of differing gender or sexuality. LGBTQ discrimination is illegal in Tuscany, however, non-binary genders are not legally recognized in Italy. Homosexuality and gender changes are legal.
Check out the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Guide here.
+ Mental Health
Students with a range of mental health conditions can successfully study abroad. If you take any medications, please review the U.S. State Department recommendations for traveling abroad with medications.
ASA is happy to talk to you about what resources are available for any mental or physical health needs you have. Please reach out to us at 617-327-9388 or hello@academicstudies.com. Having advance notice of what your needs are will allow us to identify resources to support you, such as therapy or ongoing medical care to allow you to be successful. Any ASA team member is a safe person to share things with!
With your ASA program, you'll also have a paid subscription to mindhamok, a 24-7 service designed to support study abroad students’ mental, physical and social wellbeing. mindhamok's curated online and live resources give you tools to help you succeed. You can use mindhamok to: Request an appointment with a coach/therapist; Live chat with a coach/therapist about concerns such as roommate issues, relationships, etc.; Discuss homesickness, culture shock, or adjustment concerns; and much more.
Prior to departure, there's a mandatory mindhamok online orientation, where you can ask questions about health and safety, culture, or anything on your mind. mindhamok, coupled with ASA's on-site staff, give you the tools and support you need to succeed.
+ Non-Traditional Students
ASA welcomes all degree-seeking undergraduate students on any of our programs. We are happy to talk through any component of your identity (e.g. age, marital status, parental/caregiver status, military affiliation, et al.) that may affect your ability to participate on a program. You can reach ASA at 617-327-9388 or hello@academicstudies.com.
+ Religion
Italy is a majority Roman Catholic country with smaller numbers of Muslim, Protestant, Jewish, and other religious minorities. Freedom of worship is upheld in Italy. ASA is happy to help you find a place of worship in Florence - just ask us.
ELIGIBILITY
Lorenzo de’ Medici
Semester/Academic Year
Requirements:
Minimum GPA 2.8 (Applicants with GPA below 2.8 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
Language requirement: None. Open to students with any level of Italian
At least 18 years of age
Must have completed at least 2 semesters at a U.S. or Canadian college/university by the start of the program.
Official transcript from most recent institution attended. If you have attended more than one institution, please submit a transcript from each institution. Official Transcript from current institution should show courses currently in progress.
ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. If you don’t have a valid passport, confirmation of an expedited passport application is required before you can be accepted into this program. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.
For Application Deadlines, please click the “Dates & Deadlines” tab.
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici credit-bearing internships offer the possibility to learn different aspects of working in Italy, a country known for its artisanal and small business structure and legacy of sustainability. Students in the internship program obtain lifelong skills, cultivate relationships and can develop professional portfolios to help them stand out in the professional marketplace, while they understand the strengths and structure of the Italian business environment.
Topics range from Communications to Education, from Fashion Design and Merchandising to Graphic Design. Art history internships have been arranged in the past at major churches and museums. Please note that placement opportunities are limited. Internships are unpaid: they are available for US credit and in combination with academic courses only. For detailed information on semester internship opportunities, see “Course Offerings” tab.
Program Dates & deadlines
Please wait to book a flight until you receive arrival instructions from ASA.
Lorenzo de’ Medici
| DATES | APPLICATION DEADLINE | PROGRAM CODE | VISA NEEDED FOR US PASSPORT HOLDERS? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 Arrive Aug. 27 - Depart Dec. 14 | May 1, '24 | LDM-FA24 | Yes |
| Academic Year 2024-2025 Arrive Aug. 27, 2024 - Depart May 17, 2025 | May 1, '24 | LDM-AY24 | Yes |
| Spring 2025 Arrive Jan. 28 - Depart May 17 | Oct. 15, '24 | LDM-SP25 | Yes |
| Fall 2025 Arrive late Aug - Depart mid Dec. | May 1, '25 | LDM-FA25 | Yes |
| Academic Year 2025-2026 Arrive late Aug. 2025 - Depart mid May 2026 | May 1, '25 | LDM-AY25 | Yes |
fall 2024 program calendar: Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM)
| EVENTS | DATES |
|---|---|
| Arrival and Housing Move-in | In order to make our group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Florence (FLR) airport on Tues, Aug. 27, 2024, between 9am-5pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible. |
| ASA & LdM Orientation | Wed, Aug. 28 - Fri, Aug. 30, 2024 |
| Classes begin | Mon, Sept. 2, 2024 |
| Add/Drop week | Mon, Sept. 2 - Fri, Sept 6, 2024 |
| Mid-term exams | Mon, Oct. 14 - Fri, Oct. 18, 2024 |
| Fall Break - no classes or scheduled activities | Mon, Oct. 21 - Fri, Oct. 25, 2024 |
| Classes resume | Mon, Oct. 28, 2024 |
| Excursions - locations TBA | TBA |
| Final exams | Mon, Dec. 9 - Fri, Dec. 13, 2024 |
| Housing move-out; students depart | Sat, Dec. 14, 2024 |
spring 2025 program calendar: Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM)
| EVENTS | DATES |
|---|---|
| Arrival and Housing Move-in | In order to make our group airport pick-up, students should arrive at Florence (FLR) airport on Tues, Jan. 28, 2025, between 9am-5pm. We recommend arriving earlier in the day, if possible. |
| ASA & LdM Orientation | Wed, Jan. 29 - Fri, Jan. 31, 2025 |
| Classes begin | Mon, Feb. 3, 2025 |
| Add/Drop week | Mon, Feb. 3 - Fri, Feb. 7, 2025 |
| Mid-term exams | Mon, Mar. 17 - Fri, Mar. 21, 2025 |
| Spring Break - no classes or scheduled activities | Mon, Mar. 24 - Fri, Mar. 28, 2025 |
| Classes resume | Mon, Mar. 31, 2025 |
| Excursions - locations TBA | TBA |
| Final exams | Mon, May 12 - Fri, May 16, 2025 |
| Housing move-out; students depart | Sat, May 17, 2025 |
WHAT’S INCLUDED
INCLUDED
HOUSING in a shared apartment with fully equipped kitchen. Meals are not included.
TUITION for the maximum number of credits or courses indicated on the program course offerings page. Enrolling in more than the maximum number of credits/courses (if permitted by the host institution) will result in an additional fee. Some classes carry Course Fees which are NOT included. Estimated Course Fees can be found on the program course offerings page.
ACADEMIC CREDITS: Students who receive pre-approval from their home institution can transfer the credits they earn to their home institution.
OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT: Final transcript is issued by Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM). Upon completion of the program, ASA will provide one free shipment of your final transcript to your U.S. institution.
EXCURSIONS: Semester programs include 2 overnight excursions. Summer programs include 1 day excursion. Locations to be decided.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES in Florence (gelato tour, pizza tour, museum visits, walking tours, etc.)
INTERNET ACCESS: Students will have free Internet access at their host institution and in their program housing.
AIRPORT PICK-UP: Group ground transportation is provided from Florence (FLR) airport for students who arrive on the official arrival date, by the designated time.
SITE DIRECTOR: Students will have an on-site director to assist them with any academic or cultural difficulties they may encounter.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: Comprehensive international medical insurance is included. Click here for details on benefits and coverage.
VISA ADVISING: Students are ultimately responsible for obtaining their visa (if required for their term), but ASA will provide detailed, helpful information upon acceptance about which visa students will need and how to go about applying for one. Please click here and scroll down to “Student Visa Information” to find out if a visa is required for your program.
PRE-DEPARTURE HANDBOOK & ON-SITE ORIENTATION
SUBSCRIPTION TO SAFETURE SAFETY-ENHANCING MOBILE APP
SUBSCRIPTION TO MINDHAMOK: a 24-7 service designed to support your mental, physical, and social wellbeing throughout your program. You can find out more about mindhamok in our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs
Not Included
Round trip airfare and travel expenses to and from the program location
Books, materials, course/lab fees
Local transportation
Personal expenses
Meals
Laundry
Meals on excursions
Student Visa and Permit of Stay, if required
Transportation from the airport if the student does not arrive on the official arrival date by the designated time
Transportation back to the airport at the end of the program
For academic year students and those enrolling in more than one session, housing and other ASA services and benefits are not provided during the break between sessions. For academic year students only, medical insurance during winter break is included.
BUDGETING
For a list of estimated program costs for budgeting purposes, click here.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Please click here for this program’s Cancellation Policy.