New York University: Florence - NYU in Florence

NYU Florence at Villa La Pietra is situated on a hillside just north of the center of Florence.  Sir Harold Acton, a distinguished patron of the arts, bequeathed the 57-acre estate to NYU in 1994.  Villa La Pietra is a magnificent 15th-century 60-room museum that contains a notable early Renaissance art and furniture collection.  The villa is surrounded by several acres of historically significant gardens, rolling hills, and olive groves.  There are four other villas on the estate: Natalia, Colletta, Sassetti, and Ulivi.  Most courses (except Italian language courses) are taught in English, although some NYU courses in the liberal arts are offered in Italian to proficient students as part of a specialized Italian language program.

Approximately 375 undergraduates per semester study the history of Europe and its extraordinary cultural legacy of art, literature, philosophy, and architecture along with the political, cultural, economic, and social issues that are shaping the future of Europe.  Intensive Italian language courses are offered at all levels. Courses in business, cinema studies, photography, and psychology are also available.  Classes are held in the villas on campus and at nearby downtown locations.  Additional courses for students with advanced Italian language skills are offered at the University of Florence during the spring semester.

Highlights include visits to museums and galleries, language exchange dinners, regional food tastings, and student-run clubs.  In past semesters the NYU Florence staff organized trips to Venice, Rome, Pisa, and Siena for students.  Experiential learning and community service opportunities  are also available to interested students.