Summer Schools
in Sicily and Lake Como
Experience hands-on programs in Marine Ecology, Archaeology, Human Rights, and Entrepreneurship.
The Italian Academy’s
School of Sustainability
A Living Laboratory in the Mediterranean
Syracuse Academy, The Italian Academy’s School of Sustainability, offers a study abroad experience that goes beyond the classroom. In partnership with the University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center and local research institutions, our summer programs transform Sicily into an active field laboratory.
Whether you are monitoring biodiversity in a marine protected area, excavating ancient Greek temples, or engaging with the geopolitics of the migration crisis, you will work side-by-side with experts in the field. This is your opportunity to build your resume and experience the Mediterranean lifestyle in one of Italy’s most beautiful historic cities.
Program Dates 2026:
- A) June 13th to July 4th: 3 weeks in Sicily (1x course)
B) June 13th to July 25th: 6 weeks in Sicily (2x courses)
C) June 1st to July 25th: 8 weeks in Sicily & Lake Como (3x courses) -
Program Requirements:
Programs are open to students who fulfill the following requirements:
- – University transcript: the program is exclusively open to current or recent graduates (within 12 months of graduation)
– Passport/ID scan
– Letter of motivation
– English language certificate: IELTS Academic = 6.5; TOEFL iBT = 79; Cambridge Scale = 180 (Upper B2); DET = 110; PTE Academic = 59.
Your Learning Journey
Starts Here
Meet Silvia
From your very first steps, she’ll be here to guide you through the Italian Language Courses, helping you find the solution that fits your needs.
Summer School Program Tracks
Marine
Ecology & Biodiversity
- Start date: June 13th 2026
- Duration: 3 or 6 weeks
- Location: Syracuse, Sicily
- University credits: 3 – 7 US credits
(5 – 12 ECTS equivalent)
A field-based program focused on the marine biodiversity of the Mediterranean. You will utilize the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area as your primary laboratory.
Program Highlights
- Monitoring of invasive species and climate change impacts at the Marine Protected Area
- Dolphin and whale watching activities in the bay of Catania
- Snorkeling census of fish and benthic species.
- Engaging with local fishermen community and NGOs
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Course List
Marine & Coastal Ecology
60 hours | 4 US Credits | 7 ECTS equivalent | 6 weeks
This course offers an introduction to Mediterranean marine biology and ecology, exploring the region’s distinctive ecosystems, species interactions, and conservation issues. Through lectures, labs, and substantial fieldwork in Siracusa and the Plemmirio Marine Reserve, students gain direct experience with local habitats and marine life. By the end, they will be able to identify key species and biotopes, compare major ecosystems, discuss biodiversity protection—including Posidonia oceanica—and apply basic scientific research skills in environmental studies.
Level: Introductory
Mediterranean Conflict: Humans and the Environment
45 hours | 3 US Credits | 5 ECTS equivalent | 3 weeks
The oceans provide vital resources, regulate climate, and sustain biodiversity, but human pressures and climate change are disrupting marine ecosystems through warming, acidification, sea-level rise, and other changes. These shifts affect organisms at every level of the food web. Protecting biodiversity through sustainable management, conservation measures, and marine protected areas is key to restoring ecosystems. Field trips in Eastern Sicily, particularly around Siracusa and Catania, offer case studies on vulnerable species and their interactions with human activity.
Level: Introductory
Program Partners
- Plemmirio Marine Protected Area
- WWF South Eastern Sicily
Human Rights, Migration & The Media
- Start date: June 13th 2026
- Duration: 3 or 6 weeks
- Location: Syracuse, Sicily
- University credits: 3 – 7 US credits
(5 – 12 ECTS equivalent)
Sicily is the frontline of the European migration crisis. This track examines the intersection of border politics, human rights law, and media representation.
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Program Highlights
Conduct undergraduate research at leading institution on Human Rights.
- Meetings with journalists, NGOs, and local activists.
- Visits to Italian Coast Guard and NGOs such as PassWork, CIAO (Center for Intercultural Aid and Orientation) and Libera.
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Course List
Migration, Human Rights & the Media
45 hours | 3 US Credits | 5 ECTS equivalent
This course offers undergraduates an advanced overview of migration and asylum in the Mediterranean, focusing on regional crises, human rights issues, and the main actors and challenges involved. It examines migration through political, sociological, human rights, and media perspectives to clarify this complex phenomenon.
Level: Introductory
International Human Rights Law
45 hours | 3 US Credits | 5 ECTS equivalent | 3 weeks
This course introduces the international human rights protection system, covering its legal foundations, obligations for states, and the main global and regional enforcement mechanisms. It combines this framework with case studies, site visits, and guest lectures on topics such as climate-related rights issues, asylum and refugee law, violence against women, business and human rights, and security-related challenges in the Euro-Mediterranean context.
Level: Introductory
Research (Migration and Human Rights)
60 hours | 4 US Credits | 7 ECTS equivalent | 6 weeks
This course gives undergraduates advanced training in researching migration, asylum, and human rights in the Mediterranean. It guides students through research design, analytical methods, and data-collection techniques, helping them connect theory with practice. Students gain hands-on experience by conducting original research and using resources in Sicily and other border communities around the globe, enabling comparative analysis across contexts.
Level: Undergraduate (introductory) – Graduate (advanced)
- Start date: July 4th 2026
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Location: Syracuse, Sicily
- University credits: 3 US credits
(5 ECTS equivalent)
Program Partners
- Siracusa International Institute for Human Rights and Criminal Justice
The Siracusa International Institute is a non-profit foundation that holds consultative status with the United Nations and participatory status with the Council of Europe. It is dedicated to education, training and research in international and comparative criminal justice and human rights worldwide.
Archaeology
Field School
- Start date: July 4th 2026
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Location: Syracuse, Sicily
- University credits: 4 US credits
(5 ECTS equivalent)
An intensive excavation program within one of the most iconic monuments at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Syracuse: Temple of Zeus. Students work alongside professional archaeologists to uncover the ancient past.
Program Highlights
- Active excavation at the Temple of Zeus, guided by expert archaeologists.
- Stratigraphic excavation techniques and spatial data.
- Artifact cleaning and cataloging in museum laboratories.
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Course List
Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus (Syracuse)
60 hours | 4 US Credits | 6 ECTS equivalent | 3 weeks
Join Syracuse Academy’s Archaeology Field School at the Temple of Zeus in Syracuse, Sicily, for hands-on excavation and artifact analysis in museum labs within a UNESCO World Heritage setting. Work alongside expert archaeologists from the University of Naples Federico II and other leading universities with exclusive access to the Archaeological Park’s sites, labs, and archives for a truly immersive research experience.
Level: Introductory to Advanced
Program Partners
- Archaeological Park and Museum of Siracusa
- University of Naples “Federico II” Department of Humanities
Summer School Optional Extensions
Sustainability, Innovation, Legacy & Knowledge on Lake Como
S.I.L.K. program – optional 10-day Summer School extension
- Start date: June 1st 2026
- Duration: 10 days
- Location: Como, Lombardy
An immersive program set in the heart of Como, where 500 years of silk heritage meet cutting-edge sustainable innovation. Students explore the “Made in Italy” brand through the lens of circular economy and design thinking.
Program Highlights
- Field visits to Lake Como’s artisans and businesses: textile manufacturing, startups and cultural hubs
- Hands-on Design Thinking workshops
- Team-based SILK Challenge project
- Guidance from faculty and local experts
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Program Partner
SILK: Sustainability, Innovation, Legacy and Knowledge on Lake Como
This course explores how sustainability, innovation, and local heritage shape Lake Como’s unique cultural and economic landscape, with a focus on its long-standing silk tradition. Through lectures, field visits, workshops, and team-based design activities, students learn how local craftsmanship and entrepreneurship adapt to contemporary challenges. Working with the Design Thinking method, participants develop creative solutions to a real-world challenge and present their final projects to faculty and local partners.
Italian Language Courses
- Start date: June 13th or July 4th
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Location: Syracuse, Sicily
- University credits: 3 US credits
(5 ECTS equivalent)
Italian language
45 hours | 3 US Credit equivalent | 3 weeks
This beginner Italian course, taught entirely in Italian, integrates vocabulary and grammar study with communication practice and cultural awareness. Students are encouraged to use what they learn in real-life situations, accelerating their progress and deepening their understanding of local culture, which is considered essential to true language competence.
Level: Introductory (A1) to Advanced (C1)
Student Life during the program
We believe that immersion happens as much outside the classroom as inside it.
Summer School students are housed in comfortable, shared apartments located in the center of Syracuse.
Ortigia Study Center
Classes are held at the prestigious Ortigia campus of The Italian Academy, 12th century Baroque Palazzo in Piazza Duomo.
Housing Amenities
Single and Double rooms in Shared Student Residences.
Fully furnished with equipped kitchens,
Wi-Fi, and bed linens provided.
Housing Location
A short walk from the Academy, the historic island of Ortigia and its monuments, bars and beaches.
Community
You will share your experience with other international students from around the globe, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
What’s Included
Tuition
Full academic tuition and transcript
Housing
Shared student apartment or Studio Apartments in Syracuse city center.
Excursions
Field Activities:
All transportation and equipment for site visits included
Support
On-site orientation, social activity program and 24/7 emergency support.
Ready to Apply?
Spaces for the summer tracks are limited to ensure high-quality field mentorship. Housing preferences are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Apply early to secure your place.
