Health Humanities

The Department of Health Humanities provides an interdisciplinary study of medical and health-related topics through fields such as history, culture, the arts, and communication.

3 semester credits. This course examines the practice and basic principles of addiction to drugs of abuse such as heroin, alcohol, tobacco, cannabis or cocaine. Course topics will cover the epidemiology of drug abuse, the experimental models used in brain research, and the pathological consequences of drug addiction (including heavy drinking and smoking). The course will extend the concept of addiction to pathological behaviors such as compulsive consumption of palatable food, physical exercise dependence, compulsive shopping, sexual hyperactivity, internet abuse, and gambling. The neurochemical mechanisms that are shared and lead from reward to positive reinforcement, loss of control, and dependence will be examined. The symptomatological and neurochemical similarities and differences between drug and behavioral addiction will be addressed, along with the self-destructive behaviors, tolerance, craving, and withdrawal symptoms that both types of dependence produce. The course traces also the basic aspects of human biology and physiology that are needed to fully comprehend the topics at hand, including the neuronal circuits and neurotransmitters that are altered by both natural and artificial rewards. Students will also learn how to analyze scientific data and correctly interpret the information that is published in peer-reviewed international scientific journals. Finally, students will gain an understanding of the social and ethical implications of drug and behavioral addiction and of the peculiar features of this problem in different countries, with an emphasis on the European and Italian approach as compared with other areas of the world.

3 semester credits. This course explores the significance of clinical observation in medicine, delving deeper in the history of observation and its present-day applications. The course focuses on the Italian healthcare system as a case study to learn about clinical observation and it applies a dynamic model based on in-person class meetings, field trips, assignments, and observation of clinical practices in area hospitals. Students will have the chance to learn about the historical evolution of observation and its relationship with the arts, ranging from the examination of anatomical theatres of the past to contemporary virtual reality instruments. They will also train their clinical observation skills and their capacity to record data meticulously through dynamic exercises.

3 semester credits. This course focuses on the main pillars of geriatric healthcare. It provides students with the knowledge and skills required to recognize and meet the needs of older adults from a nursing and health professions perspective. Students will learn how to identify the physiological and cognitive changes of aging and manage the more common gerontological issues arising in older adults. Focus is attributed to the ethical and socio-cultural standards required to provide successful care to the elderly, while specific emphasis is assigned to the local context and the reasons behind Italian longevity.

4 semester credits (3 theory, 1 clinical). This course focuses on evidence-based nursing care of older adults living in long-term care settings. Normal physiological changes of aging and related assessment skills will be incorporated and evaluated using standardized assessment tools. Management of common geriatric care problems will be emphasized. Particular focus will be placed on the ethical and spiritual concerns of vulnerable older adult populations. Students will reflect upon how the nursing role merges with life goals, philosophy and meaning to develop professional behaviors consistent with these aspects of life.

3 semester credits. This course leads students to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to engage in effective health assessments for patients throughout their lifespan. Health assessment covers the analysis of physiological components, while placing emphasis on cultural competence and therapeutic communication. The course introduces students to the comprehensive assessment of psychosocial, cultural, developmental, nutritional, and genetic factors with the intention of ensuring a safe and caring environment. The course explores the major systems of the body, focusing on the examinations and techniques used to assess them. Students will also apprehend how to engage in effective documentation. Lectures and in-class explanations are parallel to lab sessions that allow students to create meaningful connections between theory and practice.

4 credits. This course leads students to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to engage in effective health assessments for patients throughout their lifespan. Health assessment covers the analysis of physiological components, while placing emphasis on cultural competence and therapeutic communication. The course introduces students to the comprehensive assessment of psychosocial, cultural, developmental, nutritional, and genetic factors with the intention of ensuring a safe and caring environment. The course explores the major systems of the body, focusing on the examinations and techniques used to assess them. Students will also apprehend how to engage in effective documentation. Lectures and in-class explanations are parallel to lab sessions that allow students to create meaningful connections between theory and practice.

4 semester credits (2 theory, 2 clinical). This course introduces students to the knowledge and skills required to perform health assessments for patients throughout the lifespan. Health assessment focuses not only on physiological components, but also on the more holistic cultural, spiritual, developmental, nutritional, genetic, and mental status assessments. Clinical reasoning, communication and documentation using electronic medical records are also essential components of this course. Students expand their skills in interviewing while learning how to perform health histories, and complete physical examinations through course lectures, discussions, simulations, and supervised and individual practice in classroom and laboratory modules.

3 semester credits. This course focuses on the role of communication in public health, the development and practice of health communication strategies, and how health campaigns, medical journalism, and an increasing community participation in online health outreach impact society and wellbeing. Starting from theories of past and present health communication, students will examine how health information is delivered and perceived, the influence of media on public health outcomes, and the cons/risks of media strategies on healthcare practitioners and beneficiaries. Case studies will be analyzed to gage effectiveness and to discuss the findings of current research and scholarship on communication management in medical systems. Students will be asked to compare communication strategies in international contexts, as well as gain perspective on the implications of health communication as practiced in a country like Italy where healthcare is highly state-subsidized. Prerequisites: Introduction to Public Relations or Communication, an introductory health systems course, or equivalent.

3 semester credits. Is there such a thing as “the perfect state health system,” and if so, what does it look like? This course aims to provide students with the history and knowledge of international health systems and policies necessary to devise their own answers to these questions. Students will study the national health systems and policies of other countries, including that of their host country, Italy. By exploring themes such as access to healthcare, mental health and preventative care policies, quality and efficiency vs cost relations, and research and technology, students will uncover how these topics affect the health and well-being of their citizens. Special emphasis will be given to private versus public sector healthcare and the advantages and disadvantages associated with both. As part of their final project, students will be asked to develop their own concept of an “ideal” health system, drawing inspiration and combining aspects from various national systems.

4 semester credits. Is there such a thing as “the perfect state health system,” and if so, what does it look like? This course aims to provide students with the history and knowledge of international health systems and policies necessary to devise their own answers to these questions. Students will study the national health systems and policies of other countries, including that of their host country, Italy. By exploring themes such as access to healthcare, mental health and preventative care policies, quality and efficiency vs cost relations, and research and technology, students will uncover how these topics affect the health and well-being of their citizens. Special emphasis will be given to private versus public sector healthcare and the advantages and disadvantages associated with both. As part of their final project, students will be asked to develop their own concept of an “ideal” health system, drawing inspiration and combining aspects from various national systems. This course includes service learning hours within the Florentine Community. Service learning is a method that incorporates intentional learning with service to the community, in which the service component functions as a reflection on classroom learning for all tasks performed. In addition to regular class hours, students will be involved in a volunteer project for the entire session that integrates them in the local community in order to remove barriers and gain a sense of social responsibility. The acquisition of new skills and knowledge obtained in the service learning environment outside the classroom will enrich the learning experience and contribute to personal and emotional growth, as well as cultural consciousness, to develop a greater sense of a global citizenship and sensitivity to the needs of others. Students are guided through the experience by the non-profit association supervisor and the service learning coordinator to enhance outcomes both inside and outside the classroom. The contribution to the association is not only crucial to a deeper understanding of course topics but also allows for a greater sense of belonging in the community, allowing for students to acquire a heightened awareness of emotional intelligence that enhances the classroom learning experience.

3 semester credits. This course retraces the historical impact and scientific components of a series of diseases, from the Black Death in Florence and Milan to Influenza, HIV/AIDS, Polio, Ebola, and Covid-19 across the world. It addresses both the distribution and determinants of health-related diseases in specified populations, distinguishing between endemics, epidemics, and pandemics. The course also explores the effects of social mobility on the spread of diseases from antiquity to present-day scenarios. It defines and differentiates across rates, prevalence, and incidence to calculate and predict the spread of diseases.

3 semester credits. This course focuses on the main pillars of pediatric healthcare. It provides students with the knowledge and skills required to recognize and meet the needs of newborns, children, and adolescents from a nursing and health professions perspective. Students will learn about the approaches used to heal pediatric patients, together with common pediatric issues and the approaches adopted to ensure cultural competence. Focus in the course is attributed to the ethical and socio-cultural standards required to provide successful care to children and adolescents.

3 semester credits. Now more than ever, increased attention to health disparities has highlighted the critical need for professionals and researchers to improve the health of people and communities around the globe. This course examines individual, collective, environmental, and organizational factors that affect the health of human populations, as well as methods for carrying out research in Public Health. Drawing on humanistic disciplines (such as sociology, pedagogy, ethics) and scientific disciplines (such as statistics, informatics, and data analysis), this course provides a unique environment where cross-disciplinary research in these areas of inquiry can flourish. In addition, the course enables students to bridge classroom training with hands-on experience in Public Health practice, fully embracing a “glocal” approach. Field visits will expose students to Public Health systems and community services at the local, national, and global level. By developing a theoretical framework and participating in on-site visits to Florentine locations, this course promotes a deep understanding of how the complex interplay of cultural, economic, political, and social justice forces can respond to health inequalities and health crisis more efficiently. Prerequisites: A lower-level Health Studies course, or equivalent, is required for this course.

3 semester credits. The course focuses on the fundamentals of social work, exploring the values, the code of ethics, and the types of services of this practice-based profession. Various social work spheres are explored throughout the course, including services for the underprivileged, children, older adults, women, disabled individuals, people suffering from mental health issues, drug addicts, and convicts. The course provides tangible illustrations of social work institutions, with particular emphasis placed on the social fabric of Florence, to show how this discipline contributes to the well-being of both individuals and societies. At the same time, the course also investigates social work in relation to globalization and multiculturalism, to showcasing transnational shared goals and objectives.

3 semester credits. In this course, students will be guided through a study of the evolution of Western medicine over the centuries, investigating the stories and histories which have framed it. Students will become familiar with the important ideas, instruments, and individuals which shaped the progression of medical traditions, from classical antiquity to modern day. This course will also explore the spaces, often unexpected or unique, in which the scientific art was practiced - such as universities, apothecaries, battlefields, monasteries, and convents. This course will give students the tools needed to analyse the intersection between the field of medicine and those of law, religion, art, and culture. Particular focus will be given to medical practices and advancements made in Italy over the centuries.

3 semester credits. This course is designed to equip students with the comprehensive knowledge and hands-on skills needed to respond to emergency medical situations. Throughout the course, students will delve into the theoretical foundations of emergency healthcare, gaining a deeper understanding of the principles that guide first aid interventions. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on practical applications of these principles, with a specific focus on Basic Life Support and Defibrillation (BLS-D). Students will engage in practical sessions where they learn and practice BLS-D techniques, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). These skills are essential for providing immediate and effective assistance in critical situations, such as cardiac arrest. Moreover, the course explores the legal aspects surrounding emergency healthcare. Students will gain insights into the legal framework and ethical considerations which govern the provision of first aid.

3 semester credits. What is “normal”? When asking ourselves this question, we often look to what is beyond the typical to contextualize what we consider normal. From the perspective of psychology, we all exhibit behavior at times that is not considered typical; but what is the line in which the behavior goes from quirky to clinical? This course aims to look deeper into the disordered personality to better understand the topics associated with abnormal psychology, with an emphasis on the classification, assessment and etiology of disorders, as well as analysis of the historical, cultural and sociological aspects as they relate to diagnosis. Examination of mood, personality, dissociative, and psychotic disorders, as well as fear and anxiety and the effects of stress will all be addressed in this course to allow students to gain a critical understanding of the factors that contribute to their causes and clinical approaches. As this course takes place in Italy, the Italian perspective of mental health will be a fundamental aspect of cultural analysis to develop a global sensitivity towards the topics the addressed. Prerequisites: Introductory course on research methods in psychology or equivalent.

3 semester credits. This lecture/lab course introduces students to the therapeutic functions of art. The aim is for students to become familiar with art therapy methods and techniques whose primary objective is to develop creative expressions. During class meetings, students will use their own personal experiences by conducting direct experiments to understand the function of art within a therapeutic context. This hands-on experience will then be compared with the theoretical ideas outlined in the required readings. In the laboratory/studio part of the course, students will handle a great variety of art materials ranging from the more traditional to less common objects. The aim is to facilitate self-expression on a non-verbal and creative level and in a safe environment, open to the free exchange of opinions and untouched by prejudiced or judgmental attitudes. The essential elements that compose the created image - space, color, movement, and form - will be examined and put to the test as expressive and symbolic tools of one's inner world.

4 semester credits. This lecture/lab course introduces students to the therapeutic functions of art. The aim is for students to become familiar with art therapy methods and techniques whose primary objective is to develop creative expressions. During class meetings, students will use their own personal experiences by conducting direct experiments to understand the function of art within a therapeutic context. This hands-on experience will then be compared with the theoretical ideas outlined in the required readings. In the laboratory/studio part of the course, students will handle a great variety of art materials ranging from the more traditional to less common objects. The aim is to facilitate self-expression on a non-verbal and creative level and in a safe environment, open to the free exchange of opinions and untouched by prejudiced or judgmental attitudes. The essential elements that compose the created image - space, color, movement, and form - will be examined and put to the test as expressive and symbolic tools of one's inner world. This course includes service learning hours within the Florentine Community. Service learning is a method that incorporates intentional learning with service to the community, in which the service component functions as a reflection on classroom learning for all tasks performed. In addition to regular class hours, students will be involved in a volunteer project for the entire session that integrates them in the local community in order to remove barriers and gain a sense of social responsibility. The acquisition of new skills and knowledge obtained in the service learning environment outside the classroom will enrich the learning experience and contribute to personal and emotional growth, as well as cultural consciousness, to develop a greater sense of a global citizenship and sensitivity to the needs of others. Students are guided through the experience by the non-profit association supervisor and the service learning coordinator to enhance outcomes both inside and outside the classroom. The contribution to the association is not only crucial to a deeper understanding of course topics but also allows for a greater sense of belonging in the community, allowing for students to acquire a heightened awareness of emotional intelligence that enhances the classroom learning experience.

3 semester credits. This advanced lecture/lab course explores the history of art therapy as well as different contemporary theoretical approaches as well as practical applications of art therapy in various contexts and settings. Specific advanced scientific literature will be discussed, case studies will be analyzed, and contemporary challenges will be dealt with in order to shape critical knowledge of art therapy ethics, boundaries, limits and meanings associated with taking care of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Using their own personal experiences, students will use a great variety of media from diverse perspectives first-hand: writing, drawing, painting, collaging, and other techniques will be connected to each art therapy perspective in different ways in order to offer an idea of the flexibility required when dealing with this discipline. Glimpses will be also offered on other expressive art therapies such as music therapy and dance therapy. Prerequisites: Introduction to Art Therapy or equivalent.

4 semester credits. This advanced lecture/lab course explores the history of art therapy as well as different contemporary theoretical approaches as well as practical applications of art therapy in various contexts and settings. Specific advanced scientific literature will be discussed, case studies will be analyzed, and contemporary challenges will be dealt with in order to shape critical knowledge of art therapy ethics, boundaries, limits and meanings associated with taking care of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Using their own personal experiences, students will use a great variety of media from diverse perspectives first-hand: writing, drawing, painting, collaging, and other techniques will be connected to each art therapy perspective in different ways in order to offer an idea of the flexibility required when dealing with this discipline. Glimpses will be also offered on other expressive art therapies such as music therapy and dance therapy. This course includes service learning hours within the Florentine Community. Service learning is a method that incorporates intentional learning with service to the community, in which the service component functions as a reflection on classroom learning for all tasks performed. In addition to regular class hours, students will be involved in a volunteer project for the entire session that integrates them in the local community in order to remove barriers and gain a sense of social responsibility. The acquisition of new skills and knowledge obtained in the service learning environment outside the classroom will enrich the learning experience and contribute to personal and emotional growth, as well as cultural consciousness, to develop a greater sense of a global citizenship and sensitivity to the needs of others. Students are guided through the experience by the non-profit association supervisor and the service learning coordinator to enhance outcomes both inside and outside the classroom. The contribution to the association is not only crucial to a deeper understanding of course topics but also allows for a greater sense of belonging in the community, allowing for students to acquire a heightened awareness of emotional intelligence that enhances the classroom learning experience. Prerequisites: Introduction to Art Therapy or equivalent.

3 semester credits. This course examines the ethics of medical practices and issues in contemporary society. Coursework will pose questions regarding areas that affect human life and death. Topics include practices such as euthanasia, birth control and abortion, cloning, genetic engineering, and biomedical research. Students will analyze the ethical nature of covered practices, how they affect humans on individual and social scales, and the relationship between patients and physicians and medical structures in terms of information, consent, and responsibility. Case studies from local European as well as non-European countries will be closely considered for discussion and study.

3 semester credits. Bibliotherapy is a systematic method that utilizes literature and other narrative forms to transform traditional reading into a strategy to cope with a variety of psychological conditions. The activity of reading as a healing practice comes from a longstanding tradition: bibliotherapy dates back to ancient Greece, when libraries were seen as sacred places with healing powers. Particular attention will be given to the history of using literature for healing purposes, starting from the first historical references to the present day. This course will focus on developing a deep understanding of the therapeutic functions of books for psychological issues such as depression, eating disorders, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and emotional and social development in adolescence. Coursework will examine the spectrum of bibliotherapeutic techniques and will enable students to experience bibliotherapy in action.

3 semester credits. Bibliotherapy is a systematic method that utilizes literature and other narrative forms to transform traditional reading into a strategy to cope with a variety of psychological conditions. The activity of reading as a healing practice comes from a longstanding tradition: bibliotherapy dates back to ancient Greece, when libraries were seen as sacred places with healing powers. Particular attention will be given to the history of using literature for healing purposes, starting from the first historical references to the present day. This course will focus on developing a deep understanding of the therapeutic functions of books for psychological issues such as depression, eating disorders, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and emotional and social development in adolescence. Coursework will examine the spectrum of bibliotherapeutic techniques and will enable students to experience bibliotherapy in action. This course includes experiential learning hours with our Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI). CEMI are dynamic learning environments created to foster learning through a structured interaction with the community. In addition to regular lecture hours, students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as to develop a strong likelihood for success in life. The experiential learning hours are fully supervised by instructors who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. This unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management.

3 semester credits. This practice is designed to offer care services in Italy. This position provides students with valuable hands-on experience in providing direct care to non-self-sufficient individuals within their own homes. Students will gain practical skills and knowledge in areas such as personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting), and basic health monitoring. Providing companionship and social interaction, assisting with medication administration under the supervision of qualified professionals, and monitoring client health and reporting any concerns to supervising staff are also key responsibilities. The practice inserts students in a professional context, under the direct supervision and monitoring of a licensed professional. This course features unsalaried shifts ranging from Monday to Friday, although some organizations may require weekend hours. The practice lasts for a minimum of 150 hours which may include a preparatory training course. Hours also include research and projects such as classroom activity and writing assignments. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills.

3 semester credits. Movement and dance have been used as forms of self-expression and healing since the earliest records of human civilization. Within a studio setting, students enrolled in this course will explore the therapeutic and expressive aspects of dance/movement experiences while at the same time gaining a deeper understanding of the evolution of dance/movement throughout history and cultures. Theory and application will be studied with the goal of investigating the therapeutic effects of dance/movement therapy in educational, counseling, and rehabilitation settings. Students will gain hands-on experience, putting the techniques and methods learned in class into practice. Other creative arts therapy modalities will also be examined to provide a more comprehensive foundation of this discipline.

3 semester credits. This placement is offered to highly motivated students who seek a structured experience within the system of public healthcare in Italy. The Italian healthcare system has consistently ranked in the top categories worldwide (#2 in 2020 according to the WHO) for its equal access to medical care and health statistics, in particular overall life expectancy. Organizations such as the Italian Red Cross, Misericordia, and ANPAS support the public system through volunteer work for essential services. For example, in the region of Tuscany, all services involving the rescue and transportation of emergency patients are conducted by volunteers of the aforementioned associations. Student involvement in practice hours is an opportunity to actively engage within the local community and culture in connection to a healthcare perspective – achieved through ongoing tasks and clinical observations within a public healthcare context alongside licensed professionals and experienced volunteers. This practice is composed by hours in EMT observations for ambulance unit dispatches, where students participate in emergency ambulance dispatches to observe EMTs on duty. The practice inserts students in a professional context, under the direct supervision and monitoring of a licensed doctor or nurse. This course features unsalaried shifts ranging from Monday to Friday, although some organizations may require weekend hours. The practice lasts for a minimum of 150 hours which may include a preparatory training course. Hours also include research and projects such as classroom activity and writing assignments. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills.

3 semester credits. This practice deals with geriatric, or gerontological healthcare within the Italian system, which is ranked in the top categories of healthcare worldwide (#2 in 2020 according to the WHO). The practice seeks to enable students to learn how to provide care to elderly individuals, focusing on the different approaches required to heal the ageing body through a high-quality and person-centered approach. The practice inserts students in a professional context, under the direct supervision and monitoring of a licensed doctor or nurse. This course features unsalaried shifts ranging from Monday to Friday, although some organizations may require weekend hours. The practice lasts for a minimum of 150 hours which may include a preparatory training course. Hours also include research and projects such as classroom activity and writing assignments. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills.

3 semester credits. This course focuses on power walking as a means to improve the capacities of both the body and mind. Starting with an assessment of muscular functions, posture, breathing, and healthy eating, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and techniques of aerobic walking, Ultimately they will be able to plan and take part in a successful workout comprised of stretching, exercise, and cool-down. The course is based on a series of intense power walks throughout the city, embracing Florence as an open-air gymnasium. The approach of this course is based on experiencing the city of Florence as an academic space for learning and engagement. Classes are not held in a traditional, frontal-style setting; each lesson is carefully mapped for curricular content and featured locations: lectures, observations, exercises, analysis, and reflections on presented topics are held in relevant sites that are accounted for in the academic planning, syllabus, and related course material. Coursework and submissions will be regularly assessed on the MyFUA platform through daily assignments in addition to exams, papers, and projects. Learning through the on-site classroom approach fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural environment of Florence and how it is related to the course topic, and allows for an overall experience which contributes to students' academic and personal enrichment.

1 semester credit. This seminar aims to raise awareness of key health and safety issues in academic facilities and laboratories. The course meets the requirements for induction training for all students, promoting risk awareness and risk prevention as an integral part of education. A practical approach to training will be used in order to encourage students to actively participate both on their own and in small groups.

3 semester credits. This course focuses on individual skills to succeed in social and personal life. It provides an introduction to the science of happiness, integrating findings from positive psychology, behavioural genetics, neuroscience, and behavioural economics. The course offers a set of tools and techniques to transform problems into learning opportunities and to develop and apply strategies and skills that promote overall progress in a person's psychological, physical, and social well-being.

3 semester credits. This course offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, nutrition, and fitness from a lifetime perspective. Course topics will examine how healthy lifestyles span across the continuum of lifespans and ages with a focus on how dietary and fitness needs evolve throughout the four main life-stages: childhood, youth, adulthood, and for the elderly. Theoretical core concepts of how dietary and fitness needs are correlated to mental health and adapt according to each life-stage will be addressed along with a comparative focus on the Italian and Mediterranean approach. In addition to in-class lectures, the course features hands-on field experiences in nutrition labs for healthy diets and physical activities held in local Italian fitness facilities. Students will implement course topics and to cultivate student motivation for incorporating them into their own daily lives.

3 semester credits. This placement is offered to highly motivated students who want to enter and practice first-hand the world of clinical and pre-clinical research. Students will be in charge, under the supervision of professionals, of researching a particular topic within the larger field of drug abuse and behavioral addiction. Through initial observation in the lab and selected readings (as indicated by the site supervisor), students acquire knowledge of the epidemiology of drug abuse, the experimental models used in brain research, and the pathological consequences of drug addiction. Next, students are invited to extend the concept of addiction to pathological behaviors such as compulsive consumption of palatable food, physical exercise dependence, compulsive shopping, sexual hyperactivity, internet abuse and gambling. Students are required to develop their own research question and, by the end of the experience, submit a research paper and a conference-like presentation.
 This internship course aims to prepare students for the professional world and features an unsalaried internship scheduled individually for a minimum of ten hours per week. Students generally serve as part-time interns from Monday through Friday, although some internships may require weekend hours or ongoing research-based activities for remote placements.
The internship enhances student knowledge through field experience held in a professional environment overseen by a supervisor who regularly monitors the internship progress and development, and guides the student’s preparation of a final analytical report and portfolio. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills. Main tasks: Analysis of topics and themes of the research, laboratory familiarization, review of the lab’s past and present research with a focus on specific addictions and dependence, discussion of therapeutic strategies, assistance with research activities and experiments, oral presentation of final research report, final portfolio.
 Additional materials/Dress code: Business casual attire for dress code, please note that dress code requirements may vary depending on placement. Not applicable to remote option.
Prerequisites: Open to pre-med, science, and clinical psychology majors. A2 level of Italian language. Cover letter, CV, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.

1 semester credit. This course seeks to support students who are enrolled health professions – including nursing, social work, public health, and pre-health programs – for what concerns basic Italian language structures related to their discipline. Students will develop a medical vocabulary that will enable them to engage in simple but useful conversations within the health sector, with the aim to ease communication with Italian patients and colleagues. The course allows students to be more embedded in the Italian experience, while also practicing conversation that can be used both during work and outside of it.

3 semester credits. This placement is offered to highly motivated students who seek a structured experience within the system of public healthcare in Italy. The Italian healthcare system has consistently ranked in the top categories worldwide (#2 in 2020 according to the WHO) for its equal access to medical care and health statistics, in particular overall life expectancy. Several non-profit organizations such as the Italian Red Cross, Misericordia, and ANPAS support the public system through volunteer work for essential services. For example, in the region of Tuscany, all services involving the rescue and transportation of emergency patients are conducted by volunteers of the aforementioned associations. Student involvement in placement hours is an opportunity to actively engage within the local community and culture in connection to a healthcare perspective – achieved through ongoing tasks and clinical observations within a public healthcare context alongside licensed professionals and experienced volunteers. Placement involvement will require hours in at least one or more of the following areas: 1. Clinic assistance for patient / community relations and office duties: Provide support to clinic services and office team. Assist with public and patient relations in the English language 2. Civil service involvement for community and citizen care: Provide support to teams involved in assisting low-income families and the homeless through services such as food, clothing, and blanket distribution. Participate in civil service team assignments to cultural and sporting events for security and medical surveillance on-site. 3. EMT observations for ambulance unit dispatches: Participate in emergency ambulance dispatches to observe EMTs on duty. Observe ambulance-to-hospital (or vice versa to home) processes involved in patient transfers, check-in, and release. This internship course aims to prepare students for the professional world and features an unsalaried internship scheduled individually for a minimum of ten hours per week. Students generally serve as part-time interns from Monday through Friday, although some internships may require weekend hours or ongoing research-based activities for remote placements.
The internship enhances student knowledge through field experience held in a professional environment overseen by a supervisor who regularly monitors the internship progress and development, and guides the student’s preparation of a final analytical report and portfolio. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills. Main tasks: See Areas 1-3 above. For all areas of task involvement, a final portfolio is also required. Additional materials/Dress code: Dress code requirements will vary depending on the assigned placement subcategories. Not applicable to remote option.
 Prerequisites: Open to pre-med, health studies, social work, and nursing majors. A2 level of Italian language. Cover letter, CV, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.

3 semester credits. This practice deals with pediatric healthcare within the Italian system, which is ranked in the top categories of healthcare worldwide (#2 in 2020 according to the WHO). The practice seeks to enable students to learn how to provide care to neonates, infants, children, and adolescents, by allowing them to engage in clinical hours in pediatric hospitals of the highest order. The practice inserts students in a professional context, under the direct supervision and monitoring of a licensed doctor or nurse. This course features unsalaried shifts ranging from Monday to Friday, although some organizations may require weekend hours. The practice lasts for a minimum of 150 hours which may include a preparatory training course. Hours also include research and projects such as classroom activity and writing assignments. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills.

3 semester credits. "We see the world as we do, not because that is the way it is, but because we have these ways of seeing" (Wittgenstein). Social psychology is a scientific discipline that explores how the individual is influenced by social contexts. Students will learn to identify how social, environmental, and cognitive factors shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. The course covers theories regarding attraction, aggression, conformity, and pro-social behavior. As this course is taught in Italy, students will have the advantage of observing and testing theories learned in class in a foreign environment.

4 semester credits. "We see the world as we do, not because that is the way it is, but because we have these ways of seeing" (Wittgenstein). Social psychology is a scientific discipline that explores how the individual is influenced by social contexts. Students will learn to identify how social, environmental, and cognitive factors shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. The course covers theories regarding attraction, aggression, conformity, and pro-social behavior. As this course is taught in Italy, students will have the advantage of observing and testing theories learned in class in a foreign environment. This course includes service learning hours within the Florentine Community. Service learning is a method that incorporates intentional learning with service to the community, in which the service component functions as a reflection on classroom learning for all tasks performed. In addition to regular class hours, students will be involved in a volunteer project for the entire session that integrates them in the local community in order to remove barriers and gain a sense of social responsibility. The acquisition of new skills and knowledge obtained in the service learning environment outside the classroom will enrich the learning experience and contribute to personal and emotional growth, as well as cultural consciousness, to develop a greater sense of a global citizenship and sensitivity to the needs of others. Students are guided through the experience by the non-profit association supervisor and the service learning coordinator to enhance outcomes both inside and outside the classroom. The contribution to the association is not only crucial to a deeper understanding of course topics but also allows for a greater sense of belonging in the community, allowing for students to acquire a heightened awareness of emotional intelligence that enhances the classroom learning experience.

3 semester credits. This practice is designed to offer social work services in Italy. Social work comprises many target groups with the intention of increasing their individual and collective well-being. The practice seeks to foster knowledge concerning the interrelation of human development and behavior with social, cultural, and economic factors. In this practice, students contribute actively in the Italian social fabric to meet the need of the individuals assisted in their position’s facility. The practice inserts students in a professional context, under the direct supervision and monitoring of a licensed professional. This course features unsalaried shifts ranging from Monday to Friday, although some organizations may require weekend hours. The practice lasts for a minimum of 150 hours which may include a preparatory training course. Hours also include research and projects such as classroom activity and writing assignments. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills.

3 semester credits. This practice is designed to offer social work services in Italy. Social work comprises many target groups with the intention of increasing their individual and collective well-being. The practice seeks to foster knowledge concerning the interrelation of human development and behavior with social, cultural, and economic factors. In this practice, students contribute actively in the Italian social fabric to meet the need of the individuals assisted in their position’s facility. The practice inserts students in a professional context, under the direct supervision and monitoring of a licensed professional. This course features unsalaried shifts ranging from Monday to Friday, although some organizations may require weekend hours. The practice lasts for a minimum of 150 hours which may include a preparatory training course. Hours also include research and projects such as classroom activity and writing assignments. Placements will vary depending on the student’s language and professional skills.