Program Overview:
Come join us this summer, June 20th to July 18th, 2025, on a trip around that’ll take you on a tour of some of Italy’s most historically significant regions and cities, and will have you immerse yourselves in the Italian language, food, and art, and culture!
Hosted in the captivating city of Bologna, our program offers a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Italian culture and history. Bologna, known as “La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa,” is a city of rich heritage, architectural beauty, and a warm and welcoming community.
Our courses, 211 and 212 Italian Intermediate Language and Culture, are taught entirely in Italian, providing students with an unparalleled language immersion experience. Engage with locals, navigate historic streets, and taste the delectable local cuisine to develop both linguistic and cultural fluency.
ITAL 314 – Highlights of Italian Civilization, Culture, and Identity, takes full advantage of Bologna’s profound relevance. Every step through the city unveils layers of Italian history and identity, connecting you with the great thinkers, artists, and moments that have shaped this nation’s legacy. Visits to iconic landmarks, including the Archiginnasio and the Fountain of Neptune, transform the city into your living classroom.
Immerse yourself further into Italy’s soul with MUTH 305 Italian Musical Styles. Bologna’s vibrant music scene invites you to explore the country’s musical heritage and appreciate the fusion of classical and contemporary styles. Attend performances at prestigious venues, such as the Teatro Comunale di Bologna, and witness the magic of Italian musical expression.
Beyond academics, you will find yourself embraced by the Bolognese way of life. Join locals in “passeggiata” strolls, savor traditional dishes like tortellini and prosciutto, and indulge in gelato from renowned gelaterias. Feel at home in this warm and inclusive community, where embracing the Italian lifestyle is part of the learning experience.
Our Summer Study Abroad in Bologna promises unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and a deeper appreciation for Italy’s language, culture, and arts. Join us to embark on a transformative journey that will leave you forever enchanted by the enchanting city of Bologna!
For more info contact Dr.Annachiara Mariani amariani@utk.edu
More information about the program, including costs, tuition, accommodation, etc. can be found on UT’s study abroad website as well as our very own UTK in Bologna website!
Check out our student testimonials about the program below!
For other information, email our faculty trip leader amariani@utk.edu.
Testimonials and Gallery!
“I decided to study abroad in Bologna because I wanted to finally connect to my Italian roots and visit the places where my family grew up to better understand my heritage. I was able to learn so much about my family and truly immerse myself in a culture I’ve been familiar with growing up but never truly understood the roots of until now. I got to see so many different sides of Italy and push myself out of my comfort zone for the entire trip it was a huge learning experience for me and I feel like I’ve grown so much from the trip.” – Alyssa Marandola, Biological Sciences, Class of 2025
Alyssa has published her own Italian blog about the trip, which you can check out here!
“I decided to study in Bologna because Italy is a place I call home. I love everything there is to love about Italy and the culture. I wanted to show my best friend the place I grew up and have such a passion for and the Bologna study abroad trip allowed me to that. Traveling to Italy with friends or alone in college is the experience of a lifetime. There are truly no words to describe why you should go, you just need to. I went to Bologna to see for myself the experience of a lifetime and share that with one of my best friends.” – Joey Monachelli, Supply Chain Management, Class of 2025
“I decided to go to Bologna because I wanted to reconnect with my origins. Not knowing my culture, the language, or where my family came from in Italy were driving factors in the adventure I wanted to embark on. I’ve always been an independent person, and this was just another step in my journey to step outside my comfort zone. I had only heard wonderful things from friends and family who had traveled to Italy before, whether it was vacation or a study abroad program. I had a passion for other cultures, and it was time for me to learn more about my own culture, and what better way to learn than to be fully immersed in UTK’s Study Abroad Program in Bologna. With the wonderful Chiara Mariani at the helm, I knew I was in good hands. If you have the slightest desire to go travel to Italy, take the chance and go to Bologna. You won’t regret it, it’s truly life changing.” – Joe Martemucci, Marketing, Class of 2024
“I decided to go to Bologna because my immediate response to being asked if I wanted to go was a no. Not out of genuine disinterest—I simply hesitated. I was scared. I went to Italy to explore a part of myself I didn’t know I had. Italy brings something out in you. The people, the environment, and the culture! Every little bit of it is the best kind of different you can ever hope to experience. The amount of perspective you are able to gain over the entire world is truly eye-opening—everything gets so small, and it all feels a bit more possible. I went to Italy because my professors (Daniella and Chiara <3) told me to, and I don’t think there is a single thing I will ever be able to do to repay them. The memories I made in Bologna are going to be with me forever. Go to Italy!! 🇮🇹” – Jack Cloar, English, Class of 2025
“I first took Italian freshman year to earn my credits and avoid taking Spanish. Through the program I met some of my best friends, had incredible teachers, and had life changing experiences. I would not be the person I am today without this program and this trip. I am now pursuing Italian further as a major, and it is shaping my career path as a result. You will never forget this summer, you will find some of your closest friends, and you will see the most beautiful country in the world. Take the risk and just go for it!” – Aidan Moore, Political Sciences, Class of 2025
