Study Abroad Programs in Naples, Italy

Many students look to Rome first when considering study abroad in Italy; however, Naples has sites and history that even the capital can’t top (here’s to you, Pompeii).

Popular subjects to study. Students interested in delving into the history of the Roman Empire and architecture will feel right at home in Naples. With ancient buildings such as the Castel Nuovo, Castel dell’Ovo, or Castel Sant’Elmo, students can learn about history first-hand. Pompeii is a vast archaeological site located near the Bay of Naples. The town was destroyed and buried with the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 and features the excavated ruins where students and tourists alike can explore. Lastly, studying Latin is a popular option for students who wish to develop their knowledge of the language. After all, it is estimated that over 60 percent of English words originate from Latin!

Short term and summer programs vs. long term programs. Students looking to study a specific subject (for example, if you have a strong interest in Naples’s architecture), a short term or summer program might be beneficial for you. However, if you are looking to take in a larger breadth of Naples, a long term program might be the right fit. You can chose a program that focuses on the rise of Roman Civilization or you might find a semester worth of Latin more worthwhile. Don’t be afraid to do your homework, you will be surprised at all the programs you can find! 

Attending universities vs. other program types. There are plenty of programs to be found through international institutions, however, it is important to first consider any programs offered through your own university. If you are looking to get the full experience of Naples, consider researching local universities and directly applying to them. You might even look into the University of Naples Federico II; it was founded in 1224 and is the oldest public, non-religious university in the world. Neat, huh?