ECOLOGY, CLIMATE CHANGE & BIODIVERSITY PROGRAM
Summer, Fall, Spring
ARCHAEOLOGY FIELD SCHOOL PROGRAM
Summer
HUMAN RIGHTS, MIGRATION & SOCIAL JUSTICE PROGRAM
Summer, Fall, Spring
sustainability & innovation PROGRAM
Fall, Spring
ECOLOGY, CLIMATE CHANGE &
BIODIVERSITY
Focus on the ecological challenges to marine and terrestrial environments and on the virtuous conservation models and strategies being implemented in the Mediterranean area.
Human Rights, Migration & Social Justice
Explore migration, international law, and social inclusion through Mediterranean and global perspectives, with an emphasis on contemporary challenges and their local and global dimensions.
ARCHAEOLOGY FIELD SCHOOL
Experience the thrills of field archaeology with a deep dive into classical culture: a hands-on experience at the excavation site of the Temple of Zeus in Syracuse. Explore the connections between the many cultures that made Sicily what it is today. Rebuild the mosaic of our shared history through the pieces left by each civilization on this island: artistic, religious, culinary, linguistic and architectural.
A Living Laboratory in the Mediterranean
Syracuse Academy, The Italian Academy’s School of Sustainability, offers a study abroad experience that goes beyond the classroom. In partnership with the University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center and local research institutions, our summer programs transform Sicily into an active field laboratory.
Whether you are monitoring biodiversity in a marine protected area, excavating ancient Greek temples, or engaging with the geopolitics of the migration crisis, you will work side-by-side with experts in the field. This is your opportunity to build your resume and experience the Mediterranean lifestyle in one of Italy’s most beautiful historic cities.
Program Dates 2027:
- A) Spring Semester
January 22nd to April 30th: 14 weeks in Sicily -
Program Requirements:
Programs are open to students who fulfill the following requirements:
- – University transcript: the program is exclusively open to current or recent graduates (within 12 months of graduation)
– Passport/ID scan
– Letter of motivation
– English language certificate: C1 level (non-native English speakers)
Your Learning Journey
Starts Here
Meet Silvia
From your very first steps, she’ll be here to guide you through the Study Abroad Program structure, answer your questions, and support you during the enrollment process.
Course Location
The Italian language Course is hosted at The Italian Academy’s Neapolis Study Center in Syracuse (Siracusa), Sicily. This historic villa is nestled in the heart of Syracuse’s archaeological district, adjacent to St. John’s Church, which provides access to ancient catacombs, and is near the Archaeological Museum and the Basilica of Our Lady of Tears. The center is within walking distance of the renowned Greek Theater and the picturesque island of Ortigia, offering students a rich blend of cultural and historical experiences. Surrounded by a lush two-acre botanical garden filled with citrus trees, Mediterranean flora, and century-old palms, the Neapolis Study Center provides an inspiring and tranquil environment for creative pursuits.
Not all classrooms have four walls
Students may select to join study abroad programs of varying duration to suit their degree path for their immersive and experiential studies in Sicily, Italy
Summer Program dates & fees
- Duration: 3 to 6 weeks
- Credits: 3-7 US Credits (5-12 ECTS equivalent)
- Academic Partner: University of Minnesota
semester program dates and fees
- Duration: 14 weeks
- Credits: 3-7 US Credits (5-12 ECTS equivalent)
- Academic Partner: University of Minnesota
Study Tracks
Within each study abroad program, students may choose to join taught or research-based courses.
ECOLOGY, CLIMATE CHANGE & BIODIVERSITY
Summer, Fall, Spring
ARCHAEOLOGY FIELD SCHOOL
Summer
HUMAN RIGHTS, MIGRATION & SOCIAL JUSTICE
Summer, Fall, Spring
sustainability & innovation
Fall, Spring
TELL US YOU’RE INTERESTED
Institutional Partnerships
We innovate international higher education together
Through local and international partnerships we develop and offer meaningful academic opportunities in Sicily (Italy), with a focus on field studies and experiential learning.
get in touch
Collaborating with leading universities
Institutions partnering with Syracuse Academy for study abroad programs in the Mediterranean include:
Memberships & Academic Partnerships
What our students say
How to apply
Apply by: September 15th, 2026
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NEXT PROGRAM START DATES
FALL SEMESTER
14 weeks
22
January
SUMMER SESSIONS I/II
3/6 weeks
TBD
When should I apply?
Students are advised to apply as soon as possible to reserve their preferred courses and housing options: program housing is offered on a “first come, first served” basis.
What are the application requirements?
Applications are open to all students currently enrolled in a university or college, as well as recent graduates (within 12 months of graduation).
Students are required to upload the following in the online application form:
- University transcript or certificate/statement of attendance: 2.5 GPA or higher
- Letter of motivation
- Passport (or ID for EU students)
- English language certificate: IELTS Academic = 6.5; TOEFL iBT = 79; Cambridge Scale = 180 (Upper B2); DET = 110; PTE Academic = 59. Exemptions apply for students from countries whose first language is English (see U of M list of English certificate exempt countries), students currently enrolled in an English-taught degree or who have completed an English-taught curriculum in high school.
Can I pay in installments?
Summer program fees (tuition, housing and service fees) are payable in 3 instalments:
- Application fee (€50): at the time of application
- 1st instalment (50% of program fees): within 7 days from the receipt of the letter of offer
- 2nd instalment (50% of program fees): 30 days before the program start date
Semester program fees (and summer program fees for students enrolled via the University of Minnesota):
- Application fee ($50): at the time of application
- Program deposit ($400): upon receipt of the letter of offer
- Outstanding program fees: in line with U of M payment deadlines
Do I need a visa? And if so, can you support me in the process?
You can find out more about whether you require a visa by filling out 4 questions on the official Italian government website. NB: Summer programs are “less than 90 days”, Semester programs are “more than 90 days”; reason for travel is “Study”.
By completing the application form you will be assigned a personal student advisor that will provide guidance each step of the way on matters such as visa applications, depending on your current status. The Letter of Enrollment and Proof of Accommodation issued by Syracuse Academy are generally attached to your visa application as supporting documentation.