Eligibility
- 18 years of age or above
- Good academic and disciplinary standing at Penn State
- 2.5 cumulative GPA or better at the time of application
- Sophomore standing or above at the start of the program
Program Description
This unique program looks at food and sustainability issues from many angles – history, sociology, cultural studies, anthropology, business, politics, science, agriculture and sustainability. You will explore how we as individuals and as communities relate to issues around food in Italy, America and globally. What are the implications on local and world levels of our approach to food sources and production? How has history, culture and lifestyle influenced how we view food in different cultures? Explore the enviable Italian food culture for yourself.
Dates
Fall: mid August - mid December
Spring: early January - late April
Refer to the program website for the specific dates, if available.
Location
The Umbra Institute is located right in the heart of Perugia, in the Palazzo degli Oddi. The Palazzo is actually a palace owned by the descendants of Italian nobility. This spectacular setting is adorned by magnificent neoclassical paintings, frescoed ceilings and walls dating as far back as the 15th century, and a neighboring Italian courtyard and garden. In addition to the Palazzo's Renaissance splendor, it is replete with modern resources and amenities including a library, computer lab, classrooms, and student lounge.
Education Abroad in Countries with a Penn State Restricted Travel Designation
In order to comply with Penn State’s International Travel Policy, students interested in studying abroad in countries that Penn State has designated as “restricted” for travel, a petition for a waiver must be submitted. Once a petition is complete, and if the student is approved for study on the program in question, the student may be asked to meet with the Director of Education Abroad and the petition will be reviewed by the Penn State International Restricted Travel Committee (IRTC). The necessary petition will be included in the online application process for this program. To see if your program is taking place in a restricted travel country, please visit the Global Programs website.