STUDY ABROAD

Ave Maria University’s study abroad program in Rome, Italy focuses on furthering students’ academic and spiritual growth. Students are given the opportunity to live, study, and pray in the heart of the Eternal City during the semester that works best for them: fall, spring, or summer.

Location

During their time abroad, students will be immersed in the history and teachings of the Church, walking in the footsteps of saints and other important figures both in Rome and in its surrounding cities. The Villa where our students live is located at the top of via delle Fornaci, just

Student Life
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Our on-site staff and faculty have years of experience living, studying, and leading groups in and around the city; they are well-versed in Rome, the Christian faith, and the life-changing impact of a well-curated semester abroad.

In addition to the more structured elements of the program, students are also given ample free time to do their own exploring—classes meet four days/week, leaving each three-day weekend open for personal travel and sightseeing.

Also included in the program is a weekend pilgrimage to Assisi, the city of St. Francis, and optional trips to Florence and Orvieto.

Students seeking a longer study abroad experience may choose to go abroad during the fall or spring. Both programs are 11-weeks in length, with students taking between 12-16 credits in total (a full-time load).
A mix of general electives and core curriculum requirements are offered while in Rome, the most attractive of which is The Art & Architecture of Rome. Each class meeting will take place at a different location throughout the city, depending on the topic for the day.
AMU staff work closely with the Rome team to ensure that the courses offered in Rome fit well within our overall framework here on campus. For the most up-to-date course list, please contact AMUabroad@avemaria.edu, or speak with your advisor.
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Summer Program

Can’t swing a full semester away? Spend your summer abroad instead!

In addition to the fall and spring programs, AMU is now offering a 4-week summer Rome program with all the same fun, adventure, and cultural enrichment as the fall and spring programs—think of it as a “mini” version of the program, taking place at the same location and with the same staff as the fall and spring programs. This option is ideal for varsity athletes, nursing, and other majors who have less flexibility during the regular school year.

During the summer, students will take our flagship course, The Art & Architecture of Rome. Each class meeting will take place at a different location throughout the city, depending on the topic for the day.

Meals, lodging, tuition, and 2-3 organized weekends (including a pilgrimage to Assisi) are included in program costs.

Cost for Summer 2026: TBA