Florence

The Sam Fox School offers undergraduate students the opportunity to spend a summer or semester studying architecture, art, and design in Florence, Italy, the birthplace of Western cultural modernity. Classes make use of the rich artistic and cultural environment, urban and architectural history, and contemporary aspects of Florence, as well as the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

The Florence program places students at the heart of Renaissance architecture, offering unparalleled access to world-renowned works, vibrant urban spaces, and contemporary design practices.

Integral to the experience are excursions to Rome, Venice, and Milan, where students encounter iconic works of architecture and art, both historic and contemporary, that shaping the future of the built environment. These multi-day trips offer students the chance to engage in drawing, writing, and critical observation within the context of some of the world’s most significant art and architectural landscapes.

Students emerge from this experience with an enriched global outlook, a deeper understanding of cultural and historical contexts, and a heightened capacity to engage in creative thinking that transcends borders. For many, this is their first time abroad, making the experience even more transformative.

The Florence program fosters not only academic growth but also personal development and community building. Students form close relationships with faculty and peers, sharing meals, engaging in dialogue, and collaborating on projects in unfamiliar cultural contexts. These relationships provide critical support networks that enhance student wellbeing, promote mental health, and foster a stronger sense of belonging.

Instruction takes place on the campus of Santa Reparata International School of Art, located in the central area of Florence. Courses and studios are taught by Washington University faculty and local faculty. Instruction is in English.