Currency The French and Italian monetary unit is the euro (€). For more information on the euro and related topics, consult The European Commission site. For current exchange rates, check the business section of any large newspaper or consult xe.com. Handling Money Abroad Before departing for Italy and France, you should exchange between US$100-200 into euros to cover incidental expenses during your first few days in France. Euros can be purchased at most large banks and at most international airports. Keep in mind you may be charged an extra transaction fee, and exchange rates can fluctuate...

Rome Rome’s public transportation system, called the ATAC (Agenzia per la Mobilità del Comune di Roma), consists of three metro lines and an extensive bus network. Due to the limited underground transportation options, you will find that traveling by bus may be the easiest option. Please remember that, like any big city, Rome has problems with traffic and smog. Commuting is a part of daily life in Rome, and by commuting to and from your housing placement, you will experience life as a Roman. The ATAC monthly pass is relatively inexpensive and gives access to all forms of public transportation...

Italy Freedom of Speech & Expression The Italian constitution protects the right to freedom of speech, but there are some restrictions. Hate speech based on racial, ethnic, national, or religious discrimination is a crime punishable by up to 18 months in prison. The law also criminalizes Holocaust denial, the sale or display of fascist or Nazi memorabilia, and the public display of the fascist stiff-armed Roman salute. ( State Department) Political demonstrations occur frequently in Italy, and can sometimes be Anti-American in nature. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn...

Rome Welcome to the Eternal City! Rome is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city’s famed seven hills offer sweeping vistas of the city. The Tiber (Tevere), Rome’s famous river, offers romantic promenades and this Italian hub has been an important city for close to 2,500 years. The city’s long history is visible on many of its streets and by-ways and is a modern, vibrant city, the seat of the Italian government, and a popular location for international meetings. As an important cultural and artistic center today, Rome has a wealth of cultural treasures. Take a tour...

The Multi-Location - Museums, Art & Culture in Rome and Paris Program takes place at two distinct IES Abroad Centers. IES Abroad Rome The Rome Center is situated in the heart of Rome along the Tiber River across from the Castel Sant’Angelo. It is a newly renovated 1920s-era building within walking distance of the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Vatican. Multi-media academic facilities Auditoriums used for a guest lecture series Rooftop terrace with city views High-speed Internet and wireless printer access IES Abroad Paris The Paris Business and International Affairs Center is located in...

We know that you are eager to learn about the field trips that will be available to you during your semester abroad. Field trip options and details may not be readily available until later in the predeparture process. Please be patient as we arrange field trips that will enrich your studies and give you the opportunity to explore your host country in a safe, engaging way. When field trip details are available, they will be posted here and you will get an email from your IES Abroad Advisor letting you know they are ready. As a part of the Museums, Art, and Culture in Rome and Paris program, you...

As part of this 8-week program, each student enrolls in one course in Rome and one course in Paris. This program will take advantage of highly immersive museum visits and other cultural outings to use the city as the classroom. You will learn about the development of the history of art as you move chronologically from the Eternal City (ancient art) to the City of Light (modernism), with an included multi-day excursion to Tuscany intended to bridge the gap between medieval and Renaissance transitions in the social functions and aesthetics of art and museums. Course Options You will select one...

UNSW Course Selection UNSW courses typically are worth 6 Units of Credit (UOC) and 6 UOC are equivalent to 4 IES Abroad credits. , You must carry a full load while studying abroad at UNSW, which is the equivalent of 24 units of credit (about 4 classes) and 16 IES Abroad credits for the semester. Because there are so many different points and credit systems globally, please check with the academic advisor on your home campus to ensure that credits will transfer. IES Abroad students can take courses in the various faculties including the Arts & Design, Arts & Social Sciences, Built Environment...

The day after the official arrival date, the on-site portion of your IES Abroad program will begin with a mandatory two-day orientation program. During orientation, you will become familiar with the IES Abroad staff, your peers, and the city of Rome. Once on-site, you will receive detailed information about transportation, official course registration, housing accommodations, personal health and safety, field trips, and other aspects of the program. Classes begin immediately following the orientation period. A similar one-day orientation will also be conducted upon arrival in Paris.