This 5-week program explores the art history, society and culture of Italy.  It begins with a week on campus before continuing our adventure with 4 nights in Rome, then we continue to our base in the city of Bologna, home to Europe’s oldest university. While in Bologna we will include 2-day trips to explore the marvels of Venice and Florence, as well as day trips to Verona and Ravenna.  Students will enroll in two courses: Sociology 171 (Global Issues – 3 units) and Art History 48 (Field Studies – 1 unit) taught by GCC professors Sandy Somo and Emily Haraldson. The focus will be on the observation and appreciation of art, history, architecture, culture, society and social issues observed while in Italy. Friends and family members are welcome if they also apply, are accepted, enroll in the courses and actively participate. The program is designed to allow time for classroom lectures & discussions, field observations and time to explore independently. All participants are required to enroll and actively participate in the two courses, which encompasses a combined 72 hours of lecture and field activities.  

Italy Winter 2024: Preliminary Shell Itinerary

Itinerary Note: While in Italy, expect changes and go with the flow.

Some of the key destinations are:

• Bologna
• Rome
• Florence
• Venice
• Ravenna
• Verona

*Excursions and class session times TBA.  Some events will be subject to weather conditions.

$2,995 based on a minimum of 24 students

* Inquire about scholarships for regularly enrolled GCC students

Prices are based on current USD/Euro exchange rate of approximately 1€ = $1.08

Prices may change should there be a significant change in this foreign exchange rate.

Program Fee Includes:

•  4 nights of accommodation in a centrally-located hotel in Rome based on 2 students per room.
• 22 nights of accommodation in a 4-star apartment-hotel in Bologna based on 2 students per room.
• All rooms have a private bathroom and access to a kitchenette.
• Group Airport Transfers (must arrive into Rome and depart Bologna at the same time as the group)
• Rail transportation between Rome, Bologna and the cities of Florence, Venice, Verona and Ravenna.
• Entry fees to selected museums, cathedrals and cultural sites as part of the program itinerary.
• Daily breakfast in Rome and for our overnight stays in Venice and Florence. Breakfast is not included in Bologna but each room has access to a kitchenette with refrigerator and a market is located next door.
• Welcome dinner in Rome
• Welcome dinner in Bologna
• Farewell dinner in Bologna

Optional Costs:

• Single room supplement (your own bedroom, limited availability) additional $1,500
• Airfare LAX-Rome and Bologna-LAX (approx. $1,100 if purchased in late summer to early Fall 2023)
• GCC tuition for 4 units of coursework (non-residents are required to pay out-of-state fees)
• Mandatory travel insurance (estimated $100-$200 depending on coverage limits and age)
• Textbooks
• Most meals and beverages
• Visas (needed for most travelers starting in late 2023)
• Any Covid-19 quarantine expenses or testing for airlines and country entry requirements (if needed)
• Personal expenses
• Excursions and entry fees beyond those listed
• Anything not specified as “included”

Note: In September 2023, those enrolled at GCC during the Fall 2023 semester can apply for one of several scholarships typically ranging from $200 to $750

If you cancel, all payments are considered non-refundable. However, if we find a qualified replacement for your spot a refund will be issued minus any non-recoverable costs.

Space is limited to approximately 24 students, so act quickly.

Additional charges may be incurred for late payments or returned checks.

The course(s) that are offered as part of the program are usually transferable to the University of California and California State University. Check with your academic advisor for possible exceptions.

Students must enroll in these courses (4 credit units).

Sociology 171 (Global Issues) 3.0 Units
The focus will be on the observation and understanding of contemporary global issues, especially those affecting Italian society.

Transfer Credit: CSU Breadth (check with academic advisor)

ArtH 48 (Art History Field Studies) 1.0 Unit
The focus will be on the observation and appreciation of Italian art, architecture and culture while in Italy.

Transfer Credit: CSU Breadth (check with academic advisor)

GCC Prof. of Art History, Emily Haraldson

Phone: 818-240-1000 x 3186
Email: emilyh@glendale.edu

GCC Prof. of Sociology, Sandy Somo

Phone: 818-240-1000 x 3524
Email: ssomo@glendale.edu

1. Students are required to complete a formal application. The application includes a character reference, an academic reference and personal information. Complete applications with the required deposits are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
   
   
2. Most participants will be 18 years or older. Accommodations can be made for those under 18 with parental permission and recommendation from a counselor.
   
   
3. A pre-departure conference with each student by the Study Abroad program director must be held. When a concern is raised, an instructor can ask the Study Abroad Director to conduct the conference before a student is admitted to a program.
   
   
4. Students are required to have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and no history of disciplinary action at GCC or any other campus. Exceptions may be granted by the Study Abroad Director.
   
   
5. Students will be notified promptly in writing should they not be accepted into a program.
   
   
6. Program participants will be required to sign the forms “General Release of Liability” and “Assumption of Risk for Participation in Voluntary Activity.”
   
   
7. Students do not need to have a declared major in the classes they are taking abroad and there are no language prerequisite for the programs unless a specific course has its own requirement.