The purpose of this program is to provide opportunities for students to explore the history of the fashion and textile industries in Italy as well as the traditions, foods and culture of the Tuscany region, an area that has significantly affected the evolution of our modern world.  Florence, the center of the Renaissance movement, is a living laboratory where students can be immersed in and become a participant in a culturally diverse world.  The opportunity to observe the old in juxtaposition with the new will assist students in expanding their knowledge of the more global village and the role we each play in that environment.

This program is intended to primarily serve students who are in the Family and Consumer Sciences Fashion Design/Fashion Merchandising Program and adults in the BGS Program.  Students in other majors are also welcome to participate.

There are 10 planned events within walking distance of the school. Each is designed to enhance the lecture presented for the day and to bring Italy alive.  A one day excursion to Anghiari is planned to observe the processes used in weaving and manufacturing antique style textiles from a company that has been in business since 1842.  In addition, students will also visit San Sepolcro, birthplace of the renaissance artist Piero della Francesca. Other activities include visiting Emilio Pucci Atelier showrooms and workshops, Ferragamo facilities to observe the marking strategies of leather and fashion products, ALTAROSA Atelier which is a new small niche market clothing design and manufacturing company, as well as other related workshops and companies. Most of the excursions will require the ability to walk at a comfortable pace for at least 30 minutes. On average students will walk between 4 and 5 miles per day.

Tentative Itinerary TBA

Make your course/substitution selections on your EIU Program Application. The credit hours associated with your selections may not exceed the credit hours allocated for this program: 3

Below are the choices available for this program:

Approved Substitute: None

Students and faculty will be housed at the Hotel Cellai.  The Hotel Cellai is approximately 3 blocks from Apicius. This immaculate and comfortable European hotel will provide students with a wonderful sense of living and traveling in Europe.  The hotel has a very courteous staff on duty 24 hrs per day, is conveniently located near the historic center of Florence and within easy walking distance of the two schools.  Each room has a private bath, and the hotel has an elevator. The program cost includes 2 meals per day.  Breakfast is provided at the Hotel each morning and at least one other meal per day is provided.

At least two pre-departure orientations will be provided and are required for all participants.

Your faculty leader will hold one of these orientations, where he/she will cover information on safety, health, legal, environmental, political, cultural, and religious conditions in the host country(ies), as well as planning logistics.

The Office of Study Aborad (OSA) will hold the other orientation. They will cover general information about traveling abroad to different areas of the world and facilitate a panel discussion composed of students who have already participated in faculty-led study abroad programs.

Modern medical facilities are available in Florence and there are several excellent hospitals within just a few minutes of the school.  There are a number of American doctors in the area. 

You are strongly encouraged to read the U.S. State Department's Consular Information Sheet on your host countries. It will provide you with a great deal of information to help you prepare for your trip.

**Please be aware that you are responsible for obtaining the most up-to-date information on foreign entry requirements. The Office of Study Abroad only provides general information, as regulations and procedures are always changing. Please consult the Consulate for more information. **