Welcome to the Umbra Institute’s Intensive Italian through Culture Program!
This dynamic 6-week summer experience is designed for students who want to rapidly strengthen their Italian language skills while engaging directly with contemporary Italian culture.
Through an immersive academic environment and a rich program of cultural activities, students deepen their understanding of Italian society, traditions, and daily life while making significant progress in language proficiency.
Our approach emphasizes active participation, both in class and through co-curricular activities, with a strong focus on developing communicative skills. Students take part in a variety of interactive activities alongside Italian students, including language exchanges, dinner socials, cinema nights, and cultural workshops. The program also features a day trip to Tuscany, afternoon excursions throughout Umbria’s medieval towns and green landscapes, as well as museum visits and guided tours conducted in Italian.
Classes and activities are scheduled four to five days per week, allowing students to make the most of their time abroad while maintaining a balanced and engaging learning experience.
During the program, students complete the equivalent of two semesters of Italian language study, earning a total of eight (8) semester credits in just six weeks.
The program is designed for students at the 200–300 level of Italian and is organized into two sequential courses, each worth 4 credits, which together form an 8-credit intensive sequence. The courses build on each other and are taken together during the program.
ITAL 211 – Intensive Italian through Culture: Intermediate I (4 credits)
Equivalent to ITAL 201
ITAL 212 – Intensive Italian through Culture: Intermediate II (4 credits)
Equivalent to ITAL 202
Together, ITAL 211 and ITAL 212 provide the equivalent of two semesters of intermediate Italian within a single intensive experience.
ITAL 311 – Intensive Italian through Culture: Advanced Intermediate I (4 credits)
Equivalent to ITAL 301
ITAL 312 – Intensive Italian through Culture: Advanced Intermediate II (4 credits)
Equivalent to ITAL 302
Together, ITAL 311 and ITAL 312 provide the equivalent of two semesters of advanced intermediate Italian within the 6-week program.
Our dedicated Italian Faculty will guide you through this enriching journey. This program combines intensive language instruction with cultural immersion, giving you valuable linguistic and intercultural skills for graduate studies, international careers, or Italy-related opportunities.
Don’t miss this chance to explore Italy, improve your language skills, and experience its rich culture. Join us for an unforgettable summer of learning, adventure, and personal growth!
All activities are conducted in Italian:
• Benvenuto Dinner
• Day Trip to Tuscany
• Language Exchange with Locals
• Local Artisans Exploration
• “Serate in Cucina” Culinary Delights:
• Aperitivo Workshop
• Visit to Perugia Theater Morlacchi
• Wine Tasting with Sommelier
• Local Food Festival Visit
• Day Trip to Assisi
• Perugia 1416 Festival
• Cinema Night
Program Dates: May 29-July 11, 2026
Application Deadline: April 15th
Click to Contact Us to ask about fees, scholarships, and the enrollment process.
Ask about scholarships for Italian language studies and join over 90% of all program participants who receive financial support!
Fees Include: Tuition for Academic Program, Course Materials, Field Trips and Activities, Housing, Airport Transfers in Italy (FCO-Perugia-FCO), Orientation, Institute & University Facilities, Umbra-sponsored Cultural Activities, Student Services and 24-hr Assistance, Official Umbra Transcripts.
Program Fees do not Include: Airfare, Meals, Insurance.
Apply Early!Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to ensure they get their first-choice course selections and have plenty of time to prepare and plan for an amazing immersive all-inclusive summer in Italy!
Summer Scholarships and grants are also available to all Umbra Alumni. Contact our admissions office to see what incentives are available. We look forward to welcoming you back to Perugia!