Application Deadline & Fee

February 1, 2027; $75*
*The $75 application fee is non-refundable

Program Travel Dates

June 16 - July 1,  2027

Program Details

The main goal of this program is to promote an in-depth understanding of Italy’s geology and biology through a combination of short lectures and practical field activities. These activities will take place in several regions of Italy, specifically in Sicily (at Mt. Etna and Stromboli), Calabria (at Parco Nazionale del Pollino and Parco Nazionale dell’Aspromonte), and in Campania near Naples (at Mt. Vesuvius and Capri).

Stromboli is one of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned worldwide for its unique natural heritage. It is the only volcano in Europe characterized by essentially continuous eruptive activity. Mt. Etna, Vesuvius, and the Aeolian Islands are internationally recognized as exceptional locations for studying active volcanic processes and have played a fundamental role in the development of modern volcanology.

The program is designed to develop a wide range of academic, scientific, and personal skills, including teamwork, resilience, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills. Furthermore, the international experience will broaden students’ multicultural awareness and provide them with an opportunity to engage with Italy’s natural and cultural heritage.

Overall, the program aligns closely with the missions of the Earth Science and Biology departments, which emphasize field-based and hands-on learning throughout their curricula.     

Anticipated Curriculum

*Students are expected to enroll in one of the following two courses for this study abroad.

GEO 204R Natural History Excursion

or

BIO 204R Natural History Excursion

NOTE: There may be coursework and meetings during the summer semester before and after travel. 

Course pre-requisites may be waived for students admitted into the study abroad program by the faculty program director

Program Requirements*

Must be 18 years of age at the time of departure

UCAS and Concurrent Enrollment students are not eligible to study abroad

Minimum GPA: 2.0 

Students with Academic Standings registration holds at the time of application received for falling below a 2.0 GPA in the previous semester(s) will not be allowed to study abroad and should not apply. Students who fall below a 2.0 GPA in the Spring semester may be withdrawn from their Summer study abroad program.

Physical Requirements:

Students need to be in good shape overall and reasonably fit. We will have a few strenuous hikes. Students need to be comfortable in working outdoor for long time periods under any weather conditions, particularly with high heat.

Most places do not have wheelchair accessibility. 

Study Abroad typically involves a lot of walking! Make sure that you will be able to walk long distances over uneven surfaces.

Travel during the summer in foreign countries can be uncomfortably hot and humid. Air conditioning is not always available.

Students on study abroad must be able to independently navigate in a foreign country and be able to follow specific instructions. This may include figuring out and using public transportation, making their way through airports, negotiating large crowds, and making smart decisions related to their own safety in unfamiliar circumstances.

*Accessibility services vary from country to country. Contact UVU Accessibility Services if you require such services. Students with significant physical or mental health needs should discuss their suitability for study abroad travel with their medical professional, UVU Student Health Services, UVU Accessibility Services, and/or family before making the decision to apply.

Service animals and emotional support animals require prior approval from UVU Accessibility Services before bringing them on a study abroad trip. Pets are not allowed on study abroad. 

Estimated Program Fee*

Program fee covers in-country housing and transportation, excursions with guide service, some meals, guide services, international insurance. The program fee does not include the listed Additional Estimated Costs. 

$3935

*This cost is tentative and based on program plans and the exchange rate at the time it was posted. This cost may or may not be updated due to exchange-rate fluctuations, program revisions , and program date changes.

*Please review the Office of Education Abroad's Withdrawal Policy before applying. Within 5 days of acceptance into a Study Abroad program, you will be required to pay a $500 non-refundable commitment deposit to confirm your spot.

Additional Estimated Costs

The student is responsible for these additional costs:

  • UVU study abroad tuition* ($630 for 3 credits at $210 per credit hour)
  • International Flight:  SLC to Catania and Naples to SLC (approx $1500-$2000+)
  • Discretionary spending (approx $100 - $500 based on personal spending needs)
  • Food and drink(approx $800 at $50 per day)
  • Potential European Union ETIAS immigration fee (~$25)
  • Passport ($165)

Students over the age of 73 at the time of travel may be required to purchase a supplemental international health and evacuation insurance plan through BCBS Global (approx $200-$500+).

Students should be prepared to pay out-of-pocket for travel disruptions including lost luggage, travel and other costs associated with replacing lost/stolen passports, missed flights, flight delays, quarantines, up-front medical costs, etc.

All students are required to pay a $75 non-refundable application fee.

 

*UVU study abroad tuition is charged as an additional study abroad fee in your student account. It is separate from the study abroad program fee and regular UVU summer tuition. It is not factored into the "equal payment" calculation of the UVU Tuition Table. Study Abroad students are advised to only take study abroad courses during the block of their study abroad program.

Scholarships

There are some scholarship opportunities that are available from UVU and nationally. These scholarships are competitive and have varying application dates. Please click here for more information.

Financial Aid 

Pell Grants and Student Loans may be applied to the program, based on eligibility. Speak to the UVU Study Abroad Advisor (LA 209) and a Financial Aid Advisor for more information (BA 105).

UVU Faculty/Staff Dependent Tuition Waiver benefits may not be used to pay for study abroad tuition or fees.

Program Directors

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Travel Report

Students are strongly encouraged to read the U.S. State Department’s country information webpage for the most up-to-date information on travel advisories, entry, exit, and visa requirements, safety, security, health, and other important travel factors.