Our program is structured so you won’t just learn about Italian culture: You’ll live it, as a full-time resident of Ariccia, a small town near Rome. You’ll be immersed – literally – in Italian history on Auburn’s overseas campus, the grand Palazzo Chigi, a 16th century palace once home to nobility. Our 13-week curriculum is a fast-paced mix of classroom lectures followed by field trips to bring meaningful context to what you’ve learned. On weekends, the rest of Europe is yours to explore.
By program’s end, you’ll have earned an International Minor in Human Sciences, an impressive addition to any resume in our global society. You’ll flourish in ways you didn’t know were possible, gaining a better understanding of the world and yourself. Most of all, your life will be enriched with memories and friendships that will last forever.
FAQs
The Joseph S. Bruno Auburn Abroad program is a 13-week experience which offers a unique opportunity for students to earn an International Minor in Human Sciences over the course of a single semester—a distinction unmatched by any other program on campus.
Located in Ariccia, Italy at Auburn’s only permanent overseas campus, students live in the Chigi Palace, a 16th-century palace once home to Italian nobility.
This comprehensive curriculum, combined with hands-on cultural immersion and experiential learning, provides students with a truly holistic educational experience that transcends traditional classroom boundaries. Students enter the program with expectations of immersing themselves in Italian culture, but they leave with a broader perspective on the world and a deeper appreciation for other cultures.
The Joseph S. Bruno Auburn Abroad in Italy program is a chance to earn an International Minor in Human Sciences while engaging with lectures focused on sustainability, world history, architecture, art, design, language, cuisine, and culture and applying their knowledge through planned excursions.
Students in the Honors College can earn 14 of the 16 hours as honors credit, earning the Honors International Minor in Human Sciences.
Students majoring in Global Studies in Human Sciences may opt to not earn the International Minor in Human Sciences and are able to apply Joseph S. Bruno Auburn Abroad in Italy to their internship requirements.
Upon approval from their respective department, the program can also be used to supplement professional elective credits for students majoring in Apparel Merchandising, Design and Production Management, Interior Design, Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies.
Please work with your academic advisor to see how JSB can work best with your academic and professional goals.
First, begin your application by clicking “Apply Now” at the top of the page! Part of your application requires a meeting with the Office of Global Education. You can schedule an appointment by visiting https://aub.ie/CHSGlobalEd. The Office of Global Education is in 2011 Haley Center. An additional application item requires a $1,500 nonrefundable deposit, which will be added to your eBill after your required meeting. This deposit allows you to save your spot on program.
Because of the popularity of this program, semesters can book up quickly. Reserve your spot today by beginning your application and scheduling your meeting with the Office of Global Education!
-
Global Leadership and Intercultural Communication in Action
-
Italian Language
-
The Evolution of Art, Architecture, and Interior Design
-
The Philosophical Foundations of Italian Culture
-
Regional Italian and Mediterranean Culinary Traditions
-
Agricultural Heritage and Traditional Food Practices
-
Farm to Table Wine and Olive Oil Production
-
Education Systems incorporating Local School Collaboration
-
Hospitality and Tourism – The Drivers of Community Development
-
Italian Music and Opera
-
Critical Issues in Modern Italy
Students participating in JSB will be enrolled in the 0-credit hour UNIV 4940, an Auburn Abroad placeholder course which allows payment of first-year student scholarships towards the JSB program fee.
Should you have additional questions, including those about using student loans, please contact the Auburn University Financial Aid Office, 203 Martin Hall, 344- 844-4634 for more information.
Students with a major in the College of Human Sciences are eligible for College-specific scholarships.
Application Deadline:
- Summer/Fall 2026 admission: March 1st
- Spring 2027 admission: October 1st
All JSB participants are eligible for the scholarships listed on the Auburn Abroad website.
I left a piece of my heart in that small Italian town and I am indebted to the JSB Program for all the opportunities it gave me.
Riding on a boat for the first time and ordering meals entirely in Italian are just two of the numerous experiences that brought me out of my comfort zone. Doing so alongside my fellow peers made this experience even more rewarding.
I will never be able to adequately express my gratitude for this program and all that it has given me in ways that I did not expect. My confidence in myself as well as navigating the world around me has increased tenfold.
Administration & Faculty
