January on the Italian Coast
A seaside winter escape in Southern Italy
Spend a picturesque 3 weeks of your winter break in Sorrento, Italy. During this J-Term program, immerse yourself in Italian culture, food, and history. The theme of this program is Discovering Southern Italy where you’ll take courses related to society, history, economics and nature of Sorrento and surrounding areas. Looking for a way to break up your Fall and Spring semesters at your home campus? You really can’t go wrong with spending your J-term taking classes at the Sant’Anna Institute overlooking the sea and exploring the vibrant community of Sorrento- all while earning 3 U.S. credits!
What to Expect:
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Language: English and Italian
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Average Courseload: 1 course (3 U.S. credits)
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GPA Requirement: 2.5
Highlights:
- Excursions built into each class for further exploration of the Amalfi Coast
- Earn 3 credits in 3 weeks
- Unique courses specific to southern Italy history and culture
Program Details
Sant'Anna Institute
Located atop a seaside cliff, the Sant’Anna Institute is housed in a prominent building offering breathtaking views of the Marina Grande of Sorrento. Courses are rooted in experiential learning, which means you’ll get a unique, hands-on experience.
The grounds offer a tranquil garden, and the campus building houses classrooms, a student lounge, a kitchen, and residential rooms on the top two floors. From the Institute, you can reach the city center by foot in just fifteen minutes, and the train station is a quick 20-minute walk. When you’re not studying, you can join service learning opportunities, language exchange groups, and volunteer projects – as well as explore the city and relax.
The Sant’Anna Institute, founded in 1998, is a private institute accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education, and is a member of Edu Italia. Courses are accredited by Jacksonville University, which is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Accredited by Jacksonville University (Florida), which is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Areas of study with at least 2 classes available
- History
- Literature & Creative Writing
- Natural & Applied Sciences
- Humanities
Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.
Areas of study with 3 to 7 classes available
- Italian
Don't see your major listed here? There may still be courses available. Browse our programs by major.
Course selection:
Now the fun part, choosing your course! You’ll take one 3-credit course during your 3 week program. All courses are taught in English except for the Italian Language courses. Choose from the following list of courses:
- HIST 350 Greek Influence in Southern Italy: Colonization & Culture
- ENGL 203 World Literature
- MSC 113 Intro to Marine Biology
- IS 350/HIST 350 History of Italian Food and Culture
- BIOL 221 Human Nutrition
- MKG 320 Product Management: Food Marketing
- POL 375 Special Topics: Human Rights
- WL 101: Elementary Italian Language
- WL 102 Elementary Italian Language
- WL 201 Intermediate Italian Language
- WL 202 Post-Intermediate Italian Language
- WL 325 Advanced Italian Language
- WL 325 Special Topics: Post-Advanced Italian
- WL 325 Medieval Italian Literature I – Dante
- WL 325 Contemporary Italian Literature
Please see courses descriptions here
Note: Courses will run subject to demand and adequate enrollment, so it is important to get additional alternate courses approved.
Why Life in Sorrento
The gateway to the Amalfi Coast, the town of Sorrento is easily described as a paradise by the sea. From Sorrento, you can catch the train to Rome, take a ferry to the islands of Capri and Ischia, or reach Naples 20 miles away.
This famous, quaint city in Campania is a popular tourist destination, but don’t let that fool you. The small city and friendly people make it easy to quickly become a member of the community. Beyond the tourists, make time to wander the citrus-lined streets, saunter through the Villa Communale Park, or just enjoy the sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius in the distance.
Hiking trails abound for the mountain adventurer looking to conquer the Amalfi coastline. A beautiful bay with incredible beaches and sheltered coves lures any water lover. Sorrento is the producer of Limoncello, delicious food, and stunning sunsets. After we help you acclimate to the Mediterranean lifestyle, you’ll have the confidence to roam the city like a true local.
Live The Local Life
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Cooking Class and Dinner
Learn how to make your favorite dishes and eat them too at fattoria Terranova.
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I Limoneti di Sorrento
Enjoy a visit to “I Limoneti di Sorrento” and food tasting. Take the train or arrange for private transportation.
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Napoli Sotterranea
Visit the underground city of Naples and see the historic places where it all started, including a Greek-Roman Aqueduct.
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Capri
Explore Capri, arriving on a scenic ferry ride from Sorrento.
Sant’Anna Institute Residence Hall
Location
Sant’Anna Institute’s new residence hall space occupies the top two floors of the Institute (talk about an easy walk to class!). Students share double rooms with an en suite bathroom in each bedroom. There’s a shared kitchen and common area, as well a beautiful terrace overlooking the bay. Rooms will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Meals
You’ll have access to a fully equipped kitchen. Put your skills to the test and try cooking local favorites.
Plus, all Sant’Anna students regardless of housing choice get a special card that gives them discounts at local stores and restaurants.
Inclusions and Amenities
- Air conditioning
- BathroomEnsuite
- Bed linens
- CommuteWalking
- Double Room
- Hair Dryer
- Kitchen Equipment
- Single Room
- Study Areas
- Towels
- Wi-Fi
Shared Apartments in Sorrento
Location
If the residence hall fills, you’ll live in double rooms in shared accommodations. The apartments are fully-furnished.
Note: Apartments in Italy, especially in the historical centers, are all situated in antique buildings.
Check out the photo gallery to get an idea of what your housing could be like. The photos are of apartments that have been available in the past.
Meals
In your apartment, you’ll have access to fully equipped kitchen. Think: Italian dinner parties with your housemates and friends!
Don’t forget – you’ll also get a discount card from Sant’Anna to use at local restaurants and stores.
Inclusions and Amenities
- Bed linens
- CommutePublic TransportationWalking
- Double Room
- Laundry
- Single Room
- Towels
- Wi-Fi
What's Included
Inclusions
Program fees are in US dollars and include the following:
- Jacksonville University Transcript
- Day excursions to local sites (previous excursions: Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius, Naples)
- Group field trips as part of chosen course
- Discount card for local restaurants and shops
- CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
- Academic advising
- Financial aid counseling
- Assistance with travel arrangements
- Full-time tuition & fees
- Housing (shared bedroom in apartment, single supplement fee)
- Pre-departure and on-site orientation
Welcome & Orientation
Upon arrival you’ll be collected from the airport and taken to your accommodation. In the first few days you’ll take part in both the University and CIS Abroad orientation program where you’ll learn practical tips for living in Italy like where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop. We will also take you to explore the local eateries in Sorrento and you’ll enjoy a welcome meal.
Farewell & Re-Entry Program
At the end of the program we will all get together for one last epic meal and talk about your adventures and experiences. Our staff will also share some precious tips on going back home feeling like a champ! Your study abroad experience is something to be cherished and shared with your family and friends back home.
Program Excursions
Pompeii, Naples and Amalfi Coast
To get the full experience of the famous buried city of Pompeii, take a guided tour of the ruins. From there, head to the dramatic and stunningly beautiful Amalfi Coast, which looks over the Mediterranean Sea from its rocky shores. Included is a ferry ride for a day trip to the stunning island of Capri. Finally, shop in local stores and dine at famous pizzerias in Naples.
Mt. Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is a stratovolcano in the Gulf of Naples, about nine kilometres (5.6 miles) east of Naples and a short distance from the shore. Vesuvius consists of a large cone partially encircled by the steep rim of a summit caldera. Mount Vesuvius is best known for its eruption in AD 79 that buried and destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Capri
A resort since the Roman Republic, Capri is still a tourist destination for both Italians and travelers. Features of the island include the Marina Piccola (the little harbor), the Belvedere of Tragara (a high panoramic promenade lined with villas), the limestone crags called “sea stacks” that project above the sea (the Faraglioni), the town of Anacapri, and the ruins of the Imperial Roman villas.
Site Director
Travel Tip:
If while traveling there’s no internet, embrace it. Play a card game with someone in the hostel common room, read a book, lie on the beach, go for a walk, talk to a stranger, think about life. Some of my favourite travel memories are from times when I didn’t have an Internet connection.
Travel Tip:
If while traveling there’s no internet, embrace it. Play a card game with someone in the hostel common room, read a book, lie on the beach, go for a walk, talk to a stranger, think about life. Some of my favourite travel memories are from times when I didn’t have an Internet connection.
About:
Romina is a native Roman with degrees in International Communications (2005) and International Relations (2007) at the University for Foreigners of Perugia. Shortly after graduating, she moved back to Rome and began her study abroad career working for IES. In Rome, she began pursing her M.A. in International Affairs at the SIOI. After completing an internship at the Italian Development Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rome, her career took a turn as Romina was offered a position to work as a Communication and Public Information Officer within the civilian component of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Herat for the NATO mission in Afghanistan. Between 2008-09, Romina completed two missions in Afghanistan. In 2009, she began working for the Italian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, which then led her to cover the same position at the Italian Embassy in Sana’a, Yemen. In Spring 2011, the Italian government ordered embassy staff to return home due to the uncertain situation of the Arab Spring. Ever since, Romina has enjoyed her return to the eternal city, and to her career in study abroad through CIS Abroad.
Travel Tip:
Step out of your comfort zone by trying new things. Be willing to talk to the locals and ask them questions! I’ve discovered this is the best way to have an authentic travel experience and really get to know the place you happen to be.
Travel Tip:
Step out of your comfort zone by trying new things. Be willing to talk to the locals and ask them questions! I’ve discovered this is the best way to have an authentic travel experience and really get to know the place you happen to be.
About:
Studying abroad in Madrid as a college student sparked my interest in international education. After finishing my studies in International Relations and Spanish stateside, I decided to make a move back to Spain to start a career as an ESL instructor. Since then, I have worked as a teacher, director, and international program coordinator throughout Europe. Travel and education are my biggest passions in life. I believe exploring the world is one of the greatest ways to learn and bring people together. Outside of work, I am always planning my next adventure and looking to find the next best restaurant or bar to get a taste of local culture. I have travelled to over 50 countries and have no plans of slowing down anytime soon!
Your Support Staff
Create an impromptu picnic. Find some strawberries from a farmers market or some bread and cheese from a little shop or maybe a fresh pastry, make your way to a green space, and just take it all in.
You’ll be supported every step of the way!
Advising
Our advising team can help match you with a program that fits your academic and personal objectives. It’s not always an easy choice, but you can’t go wrong! Once you’ve decided, we’ll guide to you submit an online application.
Enrollment
Once you’ve submitted your initial application and the fee, you’ll be assigned a Program Enrollment Coordinator. We’ll work closely together to guide you through the enrollment process and prepare you for a life-changing experience!
Dates & Prices
ADVISOR TIP: Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.
- Application Deadline: Oct 15
- Arrival: January 2
- Departure: January 21
- Price: $4,390
- Application Deadline: Oct 15 (Estimated)
- Arrival: January 2 (Estimated)
- Departure: January 21 (Estimated)
- Price: $4,390 (Estimated)
As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.
CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.