Optometry & Vision Sciences Study Abroad Programs in Italy

Get out of your comfort zone—and into the hospital, abroad. In today’s world, future healthcare professionals need global awareness, cultural sensitivity, and a strong international network to thrive in medicine. The Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program, offered in over 10 cities across Italy, gives you the chance to shadow English-speaking physicians in real clinical settings—no Italian required. From surgeries and patient consultations to hospital rounds, you’ll rotate across multiple specialties while earning 40+ AAMC-compliant shadowing hours. Programs run for 2 to 5 weeks and include housing, cultural activities, 24/7 local support, and optional academic credit. Shadowing abroad is a unique way to strengthen your med school application while gaining global clinical experience, exploring Italy, and connecting with other pre-health students from around the world. If you're dreaming of travel but don’t want to pause your healthcare journey, the Doctors in Italy Fellowship is the perfect way to do both—seamlessly.

Are you a student or young professional looking to enhance your career prospects through international work experience and hands-on learning? At Intern Abroad HQ, we help students and young professionals turn career aspirations into reality. We organize affordable internships in 20 destinations across 24 career fields that are tailored to meet each individual’s academic, professional, or personal requirements. With over 200 internship programs across Europe, Asia, Africa, Central America and South America to choose from, and options to intern from 2 weeks to 6 months either full-time or part-time, in-country or virtually, we facilitate career-enhancing experiences that work for you, not just the host organization. Intern Abroad HQ is proudly brought to you by the team behind International Volunteer HQ. We have collectively supported over 120,000 program participants since 2007 and are the only B Corp certified provider in our field.

The Master’s Degree in Optometry and Vision Science is a two-year, English-taught program designed to provide advanced knowledge in vision science, optometry, and the latest technologies and materials. The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical experience, including exercises, case studies, projects, interactive materials, student presentations, workshops, and work placements. Graduates are prepared to develop and use advanced measuring instruments and devices, contribute to technological innovation, and provide optometric services, assessing and managing visual function. A part-time four-year option is also available for students who prefer a flexible schedule.