Is This Program Right For You?

Academics

American University students have the opportunity to enroll in this unique program at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (UniMoRe). Intermediate and advanced Italian language students can study with the Department of Language, Text and Translation for the spring semester.

Modena is located at the heart of the lovely Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy which is the home of Ferrari, parmigiano reggiano cheese and balsamic vinegar. Nestled in between Parma and Bologna, Modena is a quintessential Italian town dating back to the time of Ancient Rome. The University of Modena and Reggio Emilia was founded in 1175 and is the third oldest university in the world.

The university houses several museums, research centers and botanical gardens, most of which are available to visit during the academic term.

Courses

The program is designed with two levels of coursework for either intermediate or advanced students of the Italian language. Generally students will complete ITAL 218 or ITAL 318 (or the equivalent) the fall term prior to a spring term in Modena.

The semester will begin with an orientation and then a 5 to 6-week intensive Italian course prior to the beginning of the regular university spring semester. This course includes 50 hours of class time as well as supervised self-study activities at the Self-Access Point of the university language center.  Students are also matched with a language exchange partner for conversational practice sessions.  Language classes will be offered at the Centro Linquistico d'Ateneo at UniMoRe.

During the spring term, students will directly enroll in the University of Modena. The courses will include another Italian language course that includes 50 hours of class time, 10 hours of cultural activities such as museums, historical site visits, film sessions, etc. and 10 hours of self-learning activities.  Students will also choose a course in Italian-English translation and will be able to choose one or two other courses offered by the University. Information on the regular semester Intermediate and Advanced Italian language courses may be found here: 

Student Life

Modena is located at the heart of the lovely Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy which is the home of Ferrari, parmigiano reggiano cheese and balsamic vinegar. Nestled in between Parma and Bologna, Modena is a quintessential Italian town dating back to the time of Ancient Rome.  

Both Modena and Reggio Emilia offer lots to do culturally.  Students can explore unique museums and architectural treasures from the past and more modern times.  Sites include the Ghirlandina Tower, Cathedral and Ferrari Gallery just to name a few. The region offers over 1,500 musical performances each year as well as theatre, opera, art galleries and cultural centers.  Modena is also the birthplace of world-renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti. 

The University Sports Center, located in Modena, offers organized activities for students, faculty and staff.  In addition, over 500 sports facilities may be found in the city, from the new rugby stadium to fitness centers, tennis courts and swimming pools.  The local bus transportation is excellent and students receive a discount on fares; in addition, the area is well-suited to bicycling and many university students choose to commute to, from and around campus by bike.   

The university's website for International Students provides more information on the university, student life and the cities of Modena and Reggio Emilia here: http://www.international.unimore.it/

Housing & Meals

Upon acceptance, UniMoRe will arrange for students to live in very affordable student residences in the area of the university.  The dormitory facility is divided into double rooms with a bathroom and a shared kitchen on the floor. Students coordinate and pay for housing directly with the university's Student Services division.  Information on options for study abroad students is found here: Student Services -- Accommodation Services.

Visa information

Upon acceptance, UniMoRe and AU Abroad staff will provide students with letters to obtain their Student Visa. Students are responsible for contacting the Italian Embassy or Consulate to find out which additional documents are needed to obtain a student visa.