Overview

The language and culture program in Siena, Tuscany, is designed for UC students with zero to a maximum of five quarters (three semesters) of university-level language instruction. The program is taught by expert faculty who specialize in teaching Italian using curricula designed to correspond to UC Italian departments. Language instruction and cultural education take full advantage of the local surroundings and put you in direct contact with Italian society.

Siena is a compact and delightful city. Its distinctive architectural and cultural heritage has been preserved through seven centuries. Located in Italy's famed Tuscany region, picturesque villages, hilltop castles, ancient monasteries, world-renowned vineyards, and sparkling beaches are all within a short drive from the UC Study Center. 

For an inside look at monthly events, program excursions, and language class activities, check out the UC Siena Study Center Newsletter.

Beginning and intermediate students attend all classes with UC students only. Advanced students may take some courses with Italian and international students at the University of Siena's Department of Humanities.

Course Opportunities

Beginning, intermediate, and advanced Italian language study. You will take a placement exam upon arrival to determine your level of language proficiency. You will then be assigned to Italian language courses at the appropriate level. You will also take one upper-division elective chosen from a list of three to four courses focusing on the following topics: history of contemporary Italy, Italian cinema and society, medieval and renaissance art, and Dante's Divine Comedy.

A strict attendance policy is in effect for this program.

• EAP Program Search provides information on general areas of study.
• MyEAP Course Catalog to search for courses previously taken by UC students.
  Additional courses may be available and not all courses may still be offered.

Units

You must take a full-time course of study on EAP; 24 UC quarter units comprising three sequential language courses and one elective course are required each semester.

Language of Instruction

Italian. The elective courses are taught in English.

Language Study

Language-based curriculum. All language course work must be taken for a letter grade.

Internships, Research, and Independent Study

Internships for academic credit and independent study projects are possible in this program. Internships provide an opportunity for you to become involved in the community and practice real-life Italian skills. Arrangements are generally made at the EAP Study Center after arrival. Three internships are available.

Course in Rescue and Social Services

Serve as a volunteer at the one of the oldest social service organizations in Italy, dating back to the 13th century. You receive basic First Aid and CPR training and assist in the daily operations of the organization.

Course in English as a Second Language

Volunteer as a teaching assistant in the Siena public school system. Working in tandem with experienced English teachers, you create games and activities that promote English language learning in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms.

Course in Assistance to the Elderly

This is a volunteer course offered through the Comune di Siena. You work in one of two social centers for the elderly with other volunteers and may be called upon to participate in and/or organize various activities with residents.

Duration

Go to the Participants to see current or past calendars.

Fall: early September to mid-December
Spring: late January to early May

Extension to EAP immersion semester programs in Italy may be possible for students who complete the intermediate levels in Siena (Ital 6).

Housing

You can choose to live in a mini-residence with other UC students, a private apartment with other students, or with an Italian family. Housing is prearranged by the EAP Study Center.

On-site Support

EAP students are supported by UC's network of EAP offices at every UC campus and partnerships with EAP host universities throughout the world. Local EAP staff in Siena will help you integrate into the culture and provide assistance with academics, housing, safety, and other issues.

See the EAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).

Host Institutions

• UC Center Siena

Estimated Cost

Participation in EAP is a great value! The cost of EAP programs is typically less than that of non-UC study abroad programs. The dollar figures listed in the chart represent: 1) the amount of the fees that are paid directly to EAP in the current year, and 2) an estimate of the amount needed to cover personal living expenses in this location. Personal travel and entertainment are not included here.

Don't forget that you take your financial aid with you and the amount of your financial aid package will be based on the estimated TOTAL COST of this experience, as it is estimated below.

These expenses are estimated for 2009-10. Amounts will vary for 2010-11 participation due to proposed changes to UC fees, exchange rate fluctuation, etc. For a more detailed breakdown of 2009-10 payment information, visit the Participants Portal and select the appropriate program.

Here’s what is included in the estimate:

• Predeparture expenses (visa, etc.)
• Round-trip airfare
• UC fees
• Tuition
• Accident and medical insurance
• On-site orientation
• Room and board
• Program excursions
• Books and other incidental expenses
• Automatic transfer of credits and grades to your UC transcript

Estimated EAP Costs*

Option	Cost
* Based on most recent costs for 2009-2010 to the nearest $100.
Fall	$16,100
Spring	$16,800

Application Requirements

Class Level

Sophomore, junior, senior, graduate

Language Prerequisite

Zero to a maximum of five quarters or three semesters of beginning to intermediate university-level Italian.

GPA

2.0 cumulative GPA and good academic standing, as defined by your UC campus, at the time of application and maintained through the end of the last term prior to departure.

Minimum Criteria

All applicants must also have:

• Serious academic goals and a clear plan for integrating EAP studies into the student’s UC degree program
• Social and cross-cultural sensitivity; maturity; ability to adapt successfully to a different environment and a new education system; ability to assess and exhibit appropriate behavior in a variety of situations
• A willingness to abide by program regulations
• An endorsement by the Campus EAP Selection Committee and completion of all campus-specific requirements (an interview may be required)

These are minimum program requirements. Your Campus EAP Office determines selection and final admission.

Deadlines

Application deadlines and information on the application process are available through your Campus EAP Office. Supplemental predeparture materials will be required for many programs, including, but not limited to, host institution applications, visa and housing applications, medical clearances, etc.

For participation in the program, you must meet all deadlines and submit complete application materials.

Visit your Campus EAP Office for more information:

• UC Berkeley
• UC Davis
• UC Irvine
• UC Los Angeles
• UC Merced
• UC Riverside
• UC San Diego
• UC Santa Barbara
• UC Santa Cruz