Location

Venice, Italy

Program Description

Experience Venice, Italy—one of the most culturally rich and historically influential cities in the world—through a transformative, three-credit study abroad course. This immersive program invites students to explore the arts and humanities in the heart of a city that shaped Western civilization.

For over a millennium, the Republic of Venice—known as La Serenissima—stood at the forefront of commerce, politics, and culture. While much of Europe grappled with instability, Venice thrived as a beacon of innovation, artistic expression, and cultural expression. This unique environment gave rise to a flourishing of the arts that left an enduring legacy still felt in the United States today.

Students will engage with Venice’s rich cultural heritage through:
Interactive masterclasses and workshops in opera, classical music, culinary arts, glassblowing, Commedia dell’arte, and traditional mask making.

On-site exploration of iconic landmarks such as Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the Gallerie dell’Accademia, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari.

Comparative analysis of Venice’s artistic and cultural output alongside other major Western centers.

Discussions on contemporary relevance, examining how Venice’s legacy continues to influence modern society, including cultural trends in the United States.

HUM 250: Foundations of Western Culture – Venice Through the Ages will satisfy the Human Questions and Context requirement in the Arts and Humanities area of General Education. Explore the cultural legacy of Venice through this immersive, three-credit study abroad course. Students will engage with Venetian art, architecture, music, theatre, literature, and cuisine through site visits, performances, cooking classes, and hands-on workshops. From Saint Mark’s Basilica to Murano glassblowing and Commedia dell’arte, this course offers a rich, interdisciplinary look at how Venice shaped—and continues to influence—Western culture and civilization."

Hear from previous students:

“Studying abroad in Venice has provided me with the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture and engage in its traditions. This experience not only strengthened my personal growth but also introduced me to an incredible group of people whom I created lifelong memories with. Living abroad made me realize how important it is to value every moment and taught me to truly cherish each experience I was given.”

Julia Brown

Venice Study Abroad, 2024 

“My time in Venice was some of the happiest and explorative moments of my life. When I travel, I tend to stick to touristy areas and activities. When I traveled to Venice with this program, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and experience some of the most unique moments of my life. From seeing the behind the scenes of Venetian masks, to cooking in the home of an Italian couple, I was really immersed in a new culture for weeks. This time gives me deep nostalgia, and I cannot express how thankful I am to have been a part of it. Truly will never forget the memories made here and all I learned along the way!” 

Madison Probst 

Venice Study Abroad, 2019  

“This was my first time ever outside of the United States, and such a surreal experience for me. I could not have asked for a better instructor or a better group of people to travel with. Three weeks seems like a short amount of time in the end, but it truly does not take much for it to stick with you for life.” 

Kiersten Dodson 

Venice Study Abroad, 2018 

Location Description

Our time in Venice will largely be spent in the streets, churches, and squares learning how the Venetians integrated the arts and humanities into their world.  Students will experience Venetian culture directly through music and theatrical performances, gallery events, arts and crafts demonstrations, architectural tours, and Italian cuisine. 

Throughout our time, students will be immersed in the magical and unforgettable ambience of Venice, Italy! 

Director

John Burgess | burgesjg@jmu.edu | Theatre and Dance

Jeff Bush | jeff.bush@asu.edu | Music Education

Accommodations

Accommodations will be provided for students through furnished apartments with kitchens and internet access. Housing accommodations are centrally located, and public transportation is included as part of the program.  

Students will be provided a weekly per diem allowance, and weekly group meals will also be included.

Additional Items to Consider

Students will need a cell phone, a laptop or tablet, and a current passport. The city of Venice is composed of 126 individual islands that are interlaced by canals and connected by bridges and water buses. The primary form of transportation is walking, so students should bring appropriate clothing and footwear to facilitate foot travel.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Open to all undergraduate class levels and majors, including non-JMU students

Experience with Italian is helpful but not required.