Rome, Italy
IFSA Study in Rome Plus
Program Overview
MORE ACADEMIC OPTIONS TO MATCH YOUR AMBITIONS
Walk by ancient Roman city walls, stop for a quick espresso, and admire spectacular works of art—all on your way to class. Choose from a variety of IFSA classes in English that fulfill common requirements in business and the social sciences, plus take a class of your choice at the elite Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali (Luiss University). You may also develop your intercultural and professional skills with an exciting internship or directed research designed for you in Italy’s capital city.
This program is ideal for students majoring in business, economics, finance, political science, pre-law, social sciences, and more.
This is an exclusive IFSA-Designed Program. Learn more about these affordable programs here.
More Rome Options: Check out IFSA Study in Rome. It’s the same great program, minus the option to take a class at Luiss University.
Details at a Glance
Application deadline
Minimum GPA
2.70
Credit load
12–15
Housing
Apartment/Flat, Single Room Option
Instruction language
English, Italian
Language prerequisites
None
Visa required?
Yes. Learn more.
Academics
IFSA’s Study in Rome Plus program provides a compelling curriculum in English focused on business and the social sciences. Crafted for U.S. degree requirements and contemporary hot topics, IFSA classes explore relevant topics in the Roman, Italian, and European contexts by incorporating a variety of case studies and field visits. Plus, you may enroll in a class at Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali (Luiss University).
CHART Your Course
Find the classes you need fast with CHART. Our easy-to-use tool shows you classes recently taken by IFSA students.
LUISS UNIVERSITY
You will choose one direct-enroll class at Luiss. An elite private institution, Luiss University boasts the top-ranked political science program in Italy, as well an impressive economics program. For business and finance major, Luiss holds both AMBA and EQUIS accreditation and consistently ranks among the top 100 European business schools. Select law classes are open to you if you are interested in a legal or political career.
Students may only take undergraduate-level classes.
Credit Conversions
The standard conversion rate from Luiss to U.S. semester credits hours is 2:1.
- 6 Luiss credits = 3 U.S. semester credit hours
- 8 Luiss credits = 4 U.S. semester credit hours
You may opt to enroll in a second class at Luiss for a supplemental fee. You may also request to take classes delivered in Italian if you have at least four semesters of Italian language experience or the equivalent. Some popular options are listed below, but you will have access to any class available to visiting students.
LUISS Featured Direct-Enroll Classes
- Behavioral Economics
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies
- Competition Law and Antitrust Regulation
- Corporate Finance
- Databases and Big Data
- Digital Economy and Innovation
- Energy Markets and Industrial Organization
- European Union Law
- Financial Market Analytics
- Gambling: Probability and Decision
- Global Governance Through Interreligious Dialogue
- History of Political Thought
- Legal System in the Digital Age
- Money and Banking
- Public Economics
- Sociology of Terrorism
IFSA ELECTIVE CLASSES
Enroll in IFSA elective classes to complete your schedule. One of those classes may include a credit-bearing internship or directed research. Not all classes may be offered in a given semester. Click on each link below for a detailed class syllabus.
Beginning Italian I
Italian language study at beginning through advanced levels is available upon request and based on previous language experience. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Directed Research
This class offers a unique opportunity for students to delve deeply into host context research projects. Students will be guided through projects that are both feasible in the study abroad context and relevant to their broader intellectual interests. The class is structured through regular individual meetings with a faculty mentor to discuss the formation and execution of a research plan and, depending on the specific project, the possibility to conduct field- or internet-based research. At the end of the semester, students present a formal research paper. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Ethical Decision-Making
This course invites students to examine a number of ethical issues revolving around economic order and business by understanding the context in which business agents operate. From empirical and normative perspectives, students engage with theory from moral philosophy, organizational behavior, economics and management, with cases that illustrate the ethical issues in the business environment. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Forced Migration, Refugees, and Change
More than 60 million people are displaced by war, violence, and environmental destruction today. Using ethnographic approaches, students investigate sociological and political forces behind the current increase of refugees impacting Europe, considering what has been accomplished and what can be done in the future through governments, NGOs, citizens, and researchers to address challenges with forced migration. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Intercultural Communication for the Global Workplace
Designed to improve students’ abilities to communicate effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, this course utilizes intercultural theory, verbal and non-verbal communication, personal beliefs and values, and strategies for building cultural intelligence and adaptability. Examination of Italian work environments, professional practices, and business etiquette underpin the course. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
International Internship Seminar
All internships include participation in the International Internship Seminar, which covers 15 hours of online asynchronous Canvas modules to provide structured opportunities to reflect on the practical experience of the internship, learn more about your host country’s business culture, and further develop the professional skills needed for a successful transition from undergraduate coursework into a career or graduate school. Plus, you will engage with an online global cohort of IFSA internship participants, gaining exposure to business cultures around the world. Seminar is instructed in English. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
International Political Economy
This course explores theoretical issues and illustrative case studies related to international political economy. Students examine ways domestic and international politics affect relations between states by examining the role of government in the production, distribution, and consumption of resources. Students also learn to apply core concepts and theories in international political economy to case materials. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Italian Art, Power, and Influence
Art and culture reflect the society they stem from, and at the same time they can be vehicle for political messages and even play a role in international relations. This course will explore how the “soft power” of art — including literature, cinema, architecture, and visual arts in general — can be leveraged by individuals, groups, or governments as they promote their ideas and values for political gain and influence. Students visit famous monuments, museums, and architectural sites that showcase more than 2,000 years of Italian history through its great artists and leaders. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Politics of Food and Water
Global population growth is dramatically increasing our demands for food and water, contributing to a degradation of natural resources, reduction of biodiversity, and climate change. Students will explore environmental challenges in light of political strategies that promote sustainable food production and water management. This course will feature multiple case studies on Rome, where unique water management strategies — beginning with ancient aqueducts — have traditionally shaped the identity of the city till the present day. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Sustainable Tourism
In the past few decades, the global tourism industry has been increasingly criticized for its disruptive impact on local communities and the environment, while a growing trend of sustainable tourism has begun promoting more responsible, eco-friendly approaches that can help preserve nature, customs, and lifestyles. This course introduces skills and techniques that can be leveraged to expand sustainable tourism, by understanding market needs and designing innovative communication that seeks to make tourist destinations better places to live in, and to visit. (3 U.S. semester credit hours)
Classes Taught in Italian
Classes taught in Italian may be available for students who have at least four semesters of Italian language background or the equivalent. For more information, contact your IFSA Enrollment Counselor.
Luiss Restrictions
Students may only take undergraduate-level classes.
Classes in the following programs are not open to study abroad students:
- School of Government programs
- School of Journalism programs
- School of Law programs
- Language courses other than Italian
- School of European Political Economy programs
- All one year master’s programs
- Post-graduate and PhD courses
- Luiss Business School and MBA programs
- Workshops and Seminars
- Digital Program: Marketing
- Digital Program: Strategic Management
DIRECTED RESEARCH
Engage in individualized field research with faculty experts on a contemporary issue of interest. Regular meetings with faculty will assist in the formation and execution of research plans, and they will guide you on how to thoughtfully and critically integrate academic research with experiential learning. You will sharpen your written and oral communication skills through the development of articulate and comprehensive research that is respectful to the sensitivities of the local culture.
If you chose to research live human subjects, live animals or another topic that is deemed by IFSA to be required to be reviewed by the Institutional Research Board (IRB) at your home institution, then you will have to file your project with your home institution’s IRB board and submit your result to IFSA. Your IFSA Enrollment Counselor will review your application materials to help determine if you must file with IRB.
For more detailed information and examples of previous student placements, contact your IFSA Enrollment Counselor.
INTERNSHIPS
IFSA internships include real-world work experience, along with developing intercultural skills and experiences that are key to personal, academic, and professional success. Expect to devote a total of 120 hours working with your host organization, with supervision from your seminar instructor, coordinated by on-site IFSA team members. In addition, interns complete the International Internship Seminar for 3 U.S. semester credit hours. Internships are not remunerated.
Students have interned at galleries and museums, business incubators, development agencies, religiously affiliated non-profits, and human rights advocacy groups in Rome.
Your goals are carefully considered, tailoring the placement process to ensure the best possible fit. Keep in mind that final placements depend on your skills, prior experience, and availability. Although every effort is made to match your placement with your preferred field or area of business, it can’t be guaranteed. Most internships are conducted in English. If you have had at least four semesters of Italian language instruction, you can ask your IFSA Enrollment Counselor about opportunities to conduct your placement in Italian.
Application. After you submit your application, resume, and IFSA Internship Intent Form, an IFSA Enrollment Counselor and an on-site IFSA Team member will work with you to identify your professional strengths, review your goals, and refine your internship interests to establish a match. From there, you’ll have an interview with your potential internship host. You will be provided with tips and resources to prepare for your interview.
Sample Placements. The following are examples of internships IFSA students have recently completed. Placement options vary from term to term.
Organization: This historic Italian association focuses on the protection of the environment and landscape. The local chapter, based in the Garbatella neighborhood, organizes initiatives to raise awareness on environmental issues and urban sustainability, including exhibits, “Clean the world days,” and park maintenance.
Subject Areas: Environmental Science/Studies, Film Production, Marketing
Potential Projects: You would help create and edit short videos and other materials about the association’s activities, with a special focus on urban gardens and beekeeping.
Organization: This Rome-based, independent, English-language, online magazine covers everything Italy-related, offering news and opinion about politics, economy, culture, and sports.
Subject Areas: Communications, Journalism, Marketing
Potential Projects: You will help with content creation for the magazine and promotion.
Organization: This English-language event and lifestyle magazine is targeted to tourists and expats visiting or living in Rome. It includes a daily listing of the latest and most diverse cultural and lifestyle events in and around Rome.
Subject Areas: Communications, Journalism, Marketing
Potential Projects: You will help with content creation for the magazine and promotion. You can also be involved in the creation of a new Florence branch of the magazine.
Organization: This is an historic Rome-based association, one of the first in Italy, that offers support to the LGBTQ+ community and organizes cultural events and initiatives, including the big annual Pride event.
Subject Areas: Communications, Cultural Studies, Gender Studies, Politics
Potential Projects: You will help with the organization of cultural events and contribute to the social media presence of the association.
Organization: This is a small private museum in the very heart of the historic center, focused on interactive reproductions of inventions and machines designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
Subject Areas: Communications, Museum Studies, Art History, Marketing
Potential Projects: Interns will help with front desk operations, English-led tours, as well as with promotional initiatives and social media campaigns.
New country, new way of learning!
Here’s what to expect at Luiss University:
- Instruction in English. (Most, if not all, of your professors will be local Italian professors).
- More advanced instruction and material than you’d find in a class at the same level in the U.S. This is because students specialize earlier here.
- With lecture-based instruction, expect a great deal of independent work.
- Grades are often based only on a single final or midterm exam. Study guides are not provided.
- Professors hold office hours and teaching assistants are available for academic support. IFSA students have found them friendly and helpful.
- IFSA local staff are also available for individual help.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility
- You must be at least 18 years of age. Students under 18 may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
- You must be currently attending or recently graduated from a U.S. or Canadian community college, technical college, two-year college, four-year college, or four-year university.
- You must have completed at least one (1) full-time semester of study at your home institution before the beginning of the term.
Recommendation Letter
Not required. A directed research or internship site may request a reference letter before placement is finalized.
TRANSCRIPT
Upon completion of your program, IFSA will send an official Butler University transcript to your home university with your coursework converted to the U.S. semester credit hour system. You will also have access to an unofficial transcript in your IFSA Student Portal. The transcript reflects classes taken, credits attempted, and grades earned during your term abroad. This service is included in your study abroad program at no additional cost. See our Transcripts page for more information.
Excursions
Activities and excursions are designed to pull you into the communities you visit and encourage cultural connections of every kind. There’s no extra fee to participate in these optional outings—everything is included in your program fee.
Below are a selection of activities and excursions from previous terms; options may vary for your program. Due to the seasonal nature of many of program activities, we cannot guarantee a specific activity or excursion will be available in a given term or program.
Activities
- Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatino Hill Tour: During orientation, seize this chance to get to know Rome by exploring some of the most iconic monuments in world history and the heart of the city.
- Sustainability Day with Legambiente: Raise awareness of the importance of protecting the environment by volunteering with this historic Italian association at a community garden in the Garbatella neighborhood.
- Take a Seat at the Table Lecture Series: Learn about topical issues like EU immigration and Italian cultural diplomacy from local experts, then head to a nearby bistro for an aperitivo and more conversation.
- Cultural Exchange Aperitivo: Whether you’re perfecting your Italian language skills or just starting out, join local Italian university students at a local coffee bar to practice, compare cultural notes, and forge new friendships.
- Bay of Naples Trip: Your two-day excursion begins in Pompeii, where you’ll explore the archaeological remains, buried in the ash of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Next, wander the narrow alleys of Sorrento and discover the legendary beauty of the island of Capri. Finally, get to know historic Naples, a seaside city brimming with architectural treasures—and famous for introducing the world to pizza.
- Castelli Romani Day Trip: Get a change of scenery as you explore this hilly area, known for its papal palace-turned-museum, lush nature preserves, scenic lakes, and masterful production of wine and olive oil.
Housing and Meals
Housing
Apartment/Flat, Single Room OptionMeals
Self-CateringDetails
Rome students typically live in fully-furnished apartments shared by four to six students in Rome’s historic center, Prati, or Trastevere neighborhoods. Apartments vary but are generally in updated historic buildings in neighborhoods with plenty of local charm, an easy 30- to 45-minute commute from the IFSA Program Center, either on foot or using public transit.
Your apartment mates could include other study abroad students, as well as students from Italy or other countries, and could be mixed gender. Most apartments have two or more bathrooms. Bedrooms are typically shared by two IFSA, same gender students. In a few cases, depending on the specific apartment layout, triple, or single rooms are possible. In some cases, there’s an option to request a single, private room by paying an a supplemental fee. Students are responsible for meals.
Sample housing
Explore Via Cola di Rienzo 285 to see what your Rome home might be like:
- Location: The Prati district, close to Rome’s historic city center.
- Commute: A six-minute walk to the IFSA Program Center.
- Living space: Apartments for four to six students in older, historic buildings. Students share bedrooms with two, same gender students per room. Bedrooms include single beds and storage. All residents share the living space, kitchen, eating area, and bathroom(s). Sometimes two students share one desk. Complete bedding and towels provided. Kitchens are equipped with oven, refrigerator, and basic dishes and kitchenware.
- Meals: No meal plan. Students prepare or purchase meals, and often tell us cooking together is a fun, social part of the day. Plus, we’ll share pro grocery shopping tips when you arrive.
- Other details: Wi-Fi included. Laundry washing machine and drying rack. Vacuum cleaner. Iron and ironing board. Fans. Air conditioning is common but not guaranteed. Weekly cleaning service of shared spaces is often included.
- Nearby: Cafes, markets, shopping, public transportation. Vatican City. Castel Sant’Angelo. Tiber River. Piazza del Popolo. Villa Borghese. Spanish Steps. Piazza Navona and the Fountain of the Four Rivers.
Dates and Fees
Get Started
Eleni Katsarelas
Enrollment Counselor