Curriculum
Orientation
Over three weeks, students take an intensive Italian language course at the Smith Center ("the Sede"), as well as an Art History course focusing on Medieval and Renaissance art in and around Florence.
In addition to the two-credit academic orientation, there is a Cocurricular Orientation organized by a recent graduate of the University of Florence. Students meet in small groups with Italian students and explore the city, get introduced to the transportation system, the best parks, shops, markets, libraries, and all the cool places where Italian students gather to eat, drink, listen to music, dance, and talk.
Course Requirements
Fall Semester
- Orientation" Three-week interdisciplinary introduction to Italian society (2 credits)
- Italian Stylistics (ITL 24) – required for all students (4 credits)
- Three additional Smith courses at the Smith Center (4 credits each)
- One audited university course with required written work (2 Smith credits)
Spring Semester
- Two to three Smith courses at the Smith Center (4 credits each)
- One to two courses at the University of Florence (generally 4 credits each)
Pistoia Early Childhood Internship Course
A limited number of internships are available at the Pistoia Early Childhood Centers for 4 credits. The internship course is graded and requires a presentation and a major research paper. The internship can take the place of a Smith course, but not a university course.
Credits
Students enroll in 36 Smith College credits: 16 credits per semester, 2 orientation course credits and 2 credits for written work associated with the fall semester audited university course.
