Catholic University Rome Flagship
Introduction
From the wonders of Ancient Rome to the sweet buzzing of contemporary Roman society, the "Eternal City" is rich in history and culture unlike anywhere else in the world. The Catholic University Rome Flagship program offers students an introduction to the vibrant existence of the Italian capital and its role in the development of Western civilization. Students have the opportunity to experience and participate in the past, present, and perhaps future of one of humanity's greatest millennial cities.
*The Office of International Programs will be submitting visa application materials on your behalf. Please check your email for updates on the visa process and visa guide.
Academics
The Catholic University in Rome program has three tracks: architecture, liberal arts, and honors. In each track, students enroll in 12-16 credits of courses taught by Catholic University faculty, either based in Rome or visiting faculty from Washington, D.C. A course in Italian language is required unless the student has completed ITAL 104, placed out of Italian language, or has a language substitution accommodation. Students should review the available course offerings. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in day trips around Italy and in cultural field trips, which have in the past included seeing an Opera, having an Italian cooking class, and attending a Papal Mass.
Architecture Track
The Architecture Track is offered during the fall semester only. Students participating in the architecture track enroll in a 3-credit field study, meeting frequently around the city to observe, sketch, and learn from the city under the guidance of an experienced architecture instructor. In addition, studio space on the 5th floor of the Rome Center makes it possible for students to attend a 6-credit architectural design studio. The remaining 3-6 credits consist of a required Italian language class and an optional elective from the Liberal Arts Track.
Liberal Arts Track
This liberal-arts intensive program focuses on the history and culture of Rome. Participants should expect to study the city in depth from the perspective of different disciplines, as site visits are an essential component of most courses. Typical course offerings include philosophy, theology, classics, and literature, and may be used to fulfill liberal arts curriculum requirements.
Honors Track
The Honors Track is offered during the fall semester only for students who have been accepted to an honors program at their home university. Participants in the Honors Track enroll in one to two honors courses taught by senior-level faculty at the Rome Center. These courses emphasize sharing ideas and presenting original arguments in a rigorous but supportive seminar-style setting. Students may also select two to four courses from the Liberal Arts Track. Additional lectures, programming, and activities are offered for academic and cultural enrichment.
Nursing Track
A specialized curriculum allows nursing students to study abroad in Rome during the spring of the sophomore year. Courses in nursing introduce students to key healthcare concepts but situated within the comparative contexts of Italy and the United States. Theology courses taught by local faculty explain the teachings of the Church, which is such a vital part of the city around them. A course in conversational Italian gives students the tools they need to communicate as they navigate Rome on a daily basis.
*Minimum GPA: 3.2*
**Application deadline for Spring Nursing Students is
April 15th, not March 1st.
2025 Spring Nursing CAF (Rome).docx
Accommodation & Meals
The Catholic University Rome Center has space to house approximately 70 students. Participants in the campus residence halls have access to laundry, air conditioning, heating, and free wifi. Most students will share a bedroom with one or two other classmates, though single room accommodations may be available for an additional fee. Pillows and blankets are provided for every resident (students will need to provide their own bedsheets and towels), as is a partial meal plan. Residence hall staff are available 24/7 - at all times for emergencies and during the day for general assistance.
Eligibility
Sophomores, juniors, and seniors in good academic and disciplinary standing may attend this program. Students who wish to attend the program during the fall semester of their sophomore year must have a minimum 2.8 GPA at the time of their application. Students attending during subsequent terms must have a minimum 2.3 GPA.
Nursing students have special eligibility requirements, including:
- 3.2 cumulative GPA
- 2.75 GPA in all science courses required for BSN including A&PI, A&PII, Microbiology, and/or Chemistry
- B- or higher in all nursing courses
- Cumulative average of 75% or higher on Entrance HESI exam.
Finances
Students and parents are advised to discuss the expected costs of study abroad programs during the application process. Budget sheets are available at the top of the page and linked below as well. Budget sheets give an idea of the total amount students will need to budget for including transportation, meals, and other assorted costs.
Scholarships
Catholic University students applying to this program may be interested in the following scholarships:
