Study abroad in Tuscania, Italy

You can spend four weeks in June studying abroad in Tuscania, Italy. This program is offered through a partnership between Heartland Community College and Parkland College.

Tuscania is a beautiful hilltop town on the border of the Tuscany and Lazio regions in central Italy. It has inspired artists for centuries and is known for its strong artistic traditions. The town is south of Florence and close to Rome.

You will study at the Tuscania campus of the Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM). The campus sits in the scenic countryside of the southern Maremma, about one hour from Rome. The school building was recently updated and now has bright studios and classrooms, reading rooms, an exhibition area, a library, and a computer room. The modern design blends nicely with the town’s medieval stone walls.

This program focuses on helping you feel connected to the local community. Italian language classes encourage you to talk with local people and use the language in real situations. Many classes use town landmarks—such as the Etruscan Museum and the churches of Santa Maria Maggiore and San Pietro—as outdoor learning spaces. These experiences help you get to know the culture and the people who live there.

The curriculum highlights the history, art, and culture that make this part of Italy special. Courses in local history and culinary arts help you understand Tuscania’s strong ties to farming and food traditions.

What You'll Study

You will take two courses. A 4-credit Italian language class is strongly recommended, and you do not need any previous language experience. Other course options include:
  • Digital Photography
  • Introduction to Painting
  • Religion Special Topics
  • Organic Agriculture
  • Italian Food and Culture

Activities:

When you are not in class, you will have plenty of time to explore Italy, enjoy the countryside, and learn about local traditions. Tuscania offers horse-riding and walking tours, medieval churches, an archaeological park, and an ancient Etruscan burial site.
You can join many free weekly activities, such as:
  • Yoga and other wellness activities
  • Nature walks
  • Herb workshops
  • Italian Cooking workshops
  • Sensory experiences
  • Food trails featuring local dishes
  • Swimming in a natural hot spring
  • Jogging or hiking in the nearby woods
Every Friday, there are free day trips to places like:
  • Beaches in Tarquinia or Montalto
  • The walled town of Viterbo
  • Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe
  • Civita di Bagnoregio, known as the “dying village”
  • The historic town of Orvieto and its underground caves
  • Villa Lante, known for its beautiful Renaissance gardens
Tuscania is also well-located for visiting Rome, Florence, Siena, Pisa, Assisi, and Perugia by train.

Housing:

You will live in an apartment either by yourself or with one other student. All apartments are within walking distance of the campus.

What's Included in Cost of Program: 

Study Abroad costs may be covered by your financial aid check with a financial aid advisor.  

Go to our Scholarship page for more information on how to get additional funds for your trip. 

Included in the cost:

  • Tuition for two courses 
  • Apartment 
    • Utilities (heating, water, electricity)
    • Laundry 
    • Internet service
  • Welcome and farewell receptions
  • Italian SIM card activation fee
  • 24-hour emergency line to advisors (health/safety issues)
  • Internet access (on-campus and in LdM apartments)
  • Student services including some cultural/social events
  • Special interest clubs (some require additional fees)
  • On-campus library facilities
  • Group transfers from Rome-Fiumicino airport to Tuscania on arrival day and departure day

Estimated Additional Costs:

  • Round-trip airfare from Chicago to Rome estimated at $1000
  • Passport: $110
  • Most meals

Financial Aid:

Talk with a financial aid advisor. If you already receive financial aid, you may be able to use it for study abroad.

Who Can Join the Program:

To join the program, students must have:
  • Completed at least 12 credit hours
  • Completed ENG 101 with a grade of B or higher
  • A minimum 2.5 GPA    

For more information or an application:

Contact Jody Littleton: Room: D175, Phone: 217/351-2532 or email  jlittleton@parkland.edu for more information.