Florence University of the Arts

About the Program

Florence University of the Arts (FUA) is an Italian institution of higher education with campuses in the historic center of Florence and the scenic Cinque Terre Riviera. Modeled on the liberal arts tradition, FUA offers a wide variety of courses across the humanities, fine arts, social sciences, and natural sciences. With a highly qualified international faculty, many of whom are Italian, students study alongside peers from around the world in vibrant, culturally rich environments. Students have the opportunity to participate in co-curricular activities such as city walks, film viewings and sports nights.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The FUA cost sheet reflects the price for the 17+ student apartment with a multiple-occupancy bedroom. To increase the likelihood of securing the apartment included in the program fee, students are encouraged to submit their study abroad application as early as possible. Additional housing options are available for an extra fee. Click here to view housing supplements.

Florence

Florence is a vibrant city where rich history meets modern life. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has profoundly shaped art, culture, and intellectual thought worldwide—from groundbreaking works of art to innovations in architecture, philosophy, and science. The city’s stunning landmarks, world-class museums, and lively cultural scene provide an inspiring backdrop for study abroad students. Living and learning in Florence means immersing yourself in a unique blend of tradition and contemporary energy, with endless opportunities to explore, engage, and grow both academically and personally.

Cinque Terre Riviera

The Cinque Terre Riviera, part of the Liguria region, offers a stunning coastal study abroad experience between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its charming villages, rugged coastline, and rich history, this area includes towns like La Spezia and the famous Cinque Terre villages. The Gulf of La Spezia, or Gulf of Poets, has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Students in the program can enjoy this vibrant mix of natural beauty, culture, and history while being close to important centers of naval innovation and the nearby Tuscan Riviera.

 Requirements

Student Feedback

• “Writing internationally gave me a new perspective on the art and helped me become a better journalist.” -Gina Valentino, a featured SUNY alum who discusses her experience at Florence University of the Arts.

• "Florence is a major travel-hub which will allow you to become not just a tourist, but a traveler to all of Europe. I truly recommend you to discover what awaits you here in the heart of this archaic city." - Gregory, Fall 2017

• “I encourage everyone to study abroad. Also, to stay away from the American influences in the country which will be very hard to do but it will be rewarding.”- Olivia, Spring 2015

• "You get a strange feeling when you're about to leave a place, like you'll not only miss the people you love, but you'll miss the person you are now at this time and place, because you'll never be this way ever again." - Sarah, Fall 2015

• "In my Public Relations Experiential Learning class, we were required to meet once a week in the classroom as well as attend two Florence University of the Arts (FUA) events a month. We had to write a press release for each event and afterwards we had to write an article for FUA's publication, Blending Magazine. One of the events was Fashion Loves You (FLY), FUA's fashion school. Each month they would hold events with various themes such as "Into the Jungle!" Often, the works of FUA students are displayed at these shows and free appetizers and drink are provided. Fashion students also would create and design a photo station for all to use. The other event was Corrodoio show, where the photography of FUA students is displayed." - Adele, Experiential Learning in Public Relations, Fall 2017