Florence
Florence, Italy

Semester Intern + Study Abroad

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

12 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 14 semester hours

18 - 21 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your CIEE Semester Intern and Study Abroad program in Florence lasts 12 weeks and features three key components: a part-time internship with an international organization (15-20 hours per week), an internship seminar, and two elective courses taught online through CIEE’s global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with cultural and extracurricular activities while building career skills, expanding your professional network, and immersing yourself in Italian culture. Live, learn, and work in Florence!

Unique Experiences

Prepare cold foods, shellfish, meats, and coffee

at an old-style deli that cooks for home delivery

Create content, coordinate photoshoots, and promote brand identity

at an Italian boutique shop

Support medical and social services

at a historic public assistance organization

Experience
  • Florence Ponte Vecchio
  • Florence skyline Duomo mountains

Your Intern and Study Abroad Destination in Florence

Florence is Italy’s enchanting, historic city, renowned for its artistic heritage, rich blend of Renaissance and Italian culture, world-class museums like the Uffizi Gallery, charming cafés and trattorias, high-end fashion boutiques, and stunning gardens and green spaces such as the Boboli Gardens. Whether you are majoring in business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Florence is the perfect place to study or intern abroad.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Florence. 

florence-student-volunteer-safety-jacket

Program Highlights

Internship Placements: CIEE offers the largest inventory of internship placements that align with your career aspirations.

Elective Courses: Choose from online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.

Workshops: Enhance your resume and interview skills while immersing yourself in Italian business culture through an internship and workshops that build practical skills, foster cultural competence, and expand your network.

Company Visits: Visit a sustainable agribusiness, a family business, or a hand-made fashion brand to gain an in-depth understanding of the work environment in Florence.

florence study abroad students seflie

excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Florence will open doors for you to explore Italy's rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.

Samples of past excursions and activities:

  • Participate in a perfume-making workshop and discover how this centuries-old practice has become a multi-million dollar business field
  • Learn about the unique food culture and sector in Florence through a pasta-making cooking class
  • Participate in a day trip to a wine and olive oil estate to learn about the production, history, and business aspects.

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience. 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Top 5 Italian Holidays and Traditions

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Ever wondered what it's like to celebrate like an Italian? Spoiler alert: It's not just about pizza and pasta. When you mix ancient traditions, mouth-watering food, and a dash of... keep reading

From CIEE

Florence vs. Rome: Which is Better for Study Abroad?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Picture this: You’re scrolling through TikTok, and every other video is some study abroad student living their best life in Italy. Now it’s your turn – but wait, do you... keep reading

From CIEE

Top 10 Italian Slang Words & Phrases You Must Know

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Planning to study abroad in Italy? Beyond the iconic landmarks, endless pasta, and rich espresso, there's something essential that will help you truly blend in with the locals: Italian slang... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Florence: Study in the lively square of Piazza Santo Spirito, located in Palazzo Guadagni near cafés, restaurants, and markets selling fresh vegetables and cheese. Set inside a Florentine Renaissance palace, CIEE Florence features two wings, beautiful classrooms, student lounges, a library, and a reception area.

Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with optional online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar. 

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Florence Intern + Study Abroad students take the 6-credit part-time internship with the required embedded internship seminar plus two additional ASU online courses (ASU session A in spring, and ASU session B in fall) for a total of 12-14 semester credits.

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-14 U.S. semester/18-21 quarter credits 

Course Credit

CIEE internship: 6 U.S. semester credits/9 quarter credits; 45 hours of in-person and asynchronous online learning activities, 225 - 300 internship placement hours.

ASU online courses: 3 - 4 U.S. semester/4.5 - 6 quarter credits; 45 - 60 contact hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

CIEE courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The integrated academic course, which correlates with the internship, is taught in-person and asychronously. Students are expected to dress and behave professionally throughout their internship and are subject to the agreed-upon internship protocols arranged by CIEE and the host organization.

ASU Courses: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.

Class Format

Students participate in a full-time in-person internship and required academic course featuring both in-person class sessions and online asynchronous work designed to help students develop professional and intercultural competencies to complement their internship experience.

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5 weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.

Grading

The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used. Students are graded on the basis of in-class and online engagement and preparation, and specific assessments such as project work, presentations, and examinations.

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

While often seen as an art hub, Florence's work scene is grounded in manufacturing SMEs and small hospitality, food, fashion, and tourism businesses. This diverse economy supports a dynamic environment where creativity and craftsmanship thrive, showcasing the city's unique blend of tradition and modern industry. 

An intern works on a design in a workshop

Architecture and Construction

Develop hands-on technical skills and responsible building planning while working for global architecture firms abroad.

An intern watches a clothing designer work on a garmet

Consumer Goods and Retail

Explore consumer behaviors, business strategies, international retail trends, and more in the global commerce marketplace.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

Marketing interns pose at a Loki premiere event

Marketing, Sales and Service

Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Stohl International Undergraduate Research Scholarships
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Fall 2025 12 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $12,950

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $8,456 **
Housing $4,000 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $12,950

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Housing Fee $1,200

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $870
International Airfare $1,250 ††
Local Transportation $160
Books & Supplies $50
Personal expenses $250 †††
Total Costs $2,580

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Tina Marisa Rocchio

Center Director

Tina grew up between the mountains of Vermont and the coastline of Rhode Island and has spent her adult life between Tuscany and Rome. Mastering Italian in high school, she...

Carla Fronteddu

Academic Director

Carla has a decade of experience in American study abroad programs and universities in Florence.

Daniele Bini

Program Manager

Daniele was born and raised in Florence and grew up in the Chianti countryside of Florence. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Languages from the University of Florence, where...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Utilize the Internship Search Tool

Search our catalog of internship opportunities to view the placements that align best with your academic and professional goals.

2

Start a Program Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

3

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

4

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Email us if you have questions or need help applying to this program. Upon your acceptance, you'll speak with on-site CIEE staff about your internship goals. CIEE will reach out to companies that align with your goals, interests, and qualifications.

Request Info