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Course Catalog

Gonzaga in Florence

Dean: Jason Houston, Ph.D.

Expand your global perspective. Immerse yourself in Italian culture. Make lifelong, life-changing memories. Study away with Gonzaga in Florence and let yourself be inspired by the people, places, language, and history you’ll come to love.

Gonzaga in Florence is the flagship global destination of Gonzaga University. Established in 1963, our school offers comprehensive academic coursework with a particular emphasis on immersive learning. Participants come from Gonzaga as well as several approved, U.S. partner institutions. For over 60 years, Gonzaga in Florence has led the way among American universities in Italy, and continues to play a key role in study away for both students and faculty. 

Florence stands proud as a cultural capital of the world- the intellectual and artistic center of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The first Zag to study away in Florence was St. Aloysius Gonzaga, who lived here as a student in the 16th century. Today, Florence’s many museums, churches and monuments give students a unique frame of reference with which to understand the historic influences that have shaped European civilization.  Florence firmly holds its place as one of Europe’s first global cities, drawing students, artists, and intellectuals for over 500 years.

Gonzaga in Florence is located in the center of Florence, just a stone’s throw from the Duomo and looks onto the Giardino dei Semplici, a 16th-century garden created by the Medici family. We work and study just steps away from the San Marco monastery, filled with Fra Angelico’s priceless frescoes, and the Galleria dell’Accademia, where Michelangelo’s regal David stands.


Our palazzo, the Mozilo Center, provides the space and tools we need for intensive learning and activities. Faculty teach with updated technology; Wi-FI is robust throughout the building. The Martin Library collection contains more than 10,000 volumes in a dedicated space and reading room. For research, students can connect to the Foley Library resources and databases on Gonzaga University's campus in Spokane. A student lounge and basic fitness center are located on the lower level. 
The newly renovated grounds provide outdoor classroom, study, and recreation spaces in every season.

Consider a semester or year with us at Gonzaga in Florence. We can’t wait to welcome you to your home away from home in Italy.

For more information about Gonzaga in Florence, visit 
www.gonzaga.edu/gif.