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OXFORD ACADEMIA AT

University of Siena

Siena, Italy

Travel Details »

14 days

$8,590 + airfare

Completing grades 9–12

Motivated rising 9th graders will also be considered

10-12 students

Highlights

Live and study at the historic University of Siena in Italy, one of Europe’s oldest universities, founded in 1240
Learn in the heart of Tuscany through dynamic, hands-on seminars that take you into the city and countryside
Gain academic insight and practical skills in subjects such as art, Italian language, sustainability, and cultural studies
Experience Siena’s rich traditions, from artisan workshops to local markets and farm-to-table cuisine
Engage with University of Siena faculty and local experts who connect classroom learning with real-world experience

Esteemed Faculty & Staff

Each program is led by on-site Directors, Deans, Residential Life staff, and distinguished university faculty. Guest lecturers and professionals from across Tuscany bring their expertise to seminars and workshops, offering students unparalleled access to Italy’s academic, artistic, and cultural life.
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Exploration & Excursions

Florence, San Gimignano, the Tuscan countryside, and more!
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University of Siena

For centuries, the University of Siena has been a center of learning and civic life in Italy. Founded in 1240, it remains one of Europe’s oldest universities and a cornerstone of Siena’s identity. Students live and study within the city’s medieval walls, walking the same streets as generations of scholars. Seminars balance classroom discussion with hands-on exploration, using the city itself as a laboratory for learning. Whether studying the history of art and architecture, business and markets, or photography, students discover how Siena’s deep history and modern vitality intersect in everyday life.

Academic Excellence

Students on our program experience the prestige of one of Europe’s oldest universities and a pillar of Italian higher education. Expert faculty lead rigorous seminars that blend academic inquiry with field-based learning, taking full advantage of the medieval city and surrounding countryside. Small seminar sizes ensure close collaboration and personal feedback. Beyond seminar instruction, students deepen their understanding through guest lectures, field visits, and cultural experiences that bring Tuscany’s heritage and innovation to life. The depth of learning on Oxford Academia at the University of Siena is unlike any other summer programs, combining academic rigor with immersive exploration.

Vibrant & Supportive Community

Beyond the individualized support students receive from faculty in their seminars, Oxford Academia programs stand apart for the close-knit community we cultivate and the support every student receives during their experience. Our Residential Life team is exceptionally robust, recognizing the importance of a supervised and structured learning and social environment. The Program Director, Program Assistants, and much of the faculty live alongside students in Siena, creating a supportive, engaging, and safe experience. They prioritize each student’s well-being from the moment they arrive, working proactively to ensure students are happy, comfortable, and safe while forming new friendships and making the most of their time in Italy.

Growth & Outcomes

Oxford Academia at the University of Siena serves as a launchpad for academic and personal growth, setting students on a course for success in university and beyond. Students pursue their interests, work closely with inspiring faculty and professionals, and gain real-world insight into future academic and career paths through immersive learning in one of Italy’s most historic cities. They return home with broadened perspectives, increased confidence, and the skills to begin shaping their future. At the end of each session, each student receives a ‘Certificate of Completion’ and a written faculty evaluation, along with a new network of peers, mentors, and friends.

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Program Structure

This two-week program combines university seminars with immersive, field-based learning throughout Siena and Tuscany. Mornings are devoted to classroom sessions that establish key concepts, while afternoons take students into the field to apply their learning in context—whether to an olive farm, artist’s studio, food market, or a neighboring hill town. Evenings feature guest lectures, community gatherings, and cultural events that bring students together to share and reflect and engage with new ideas. Students complete 30 hours of seminar instruction and receive a ‘Certificate of Completion’ at the program’s end.

Seminars

Students select one major seminar and immerse themselves deeply in their chosen subject. Major seminars meet six days a week for three hours in University of Siena classrooms and throughout the city. Classes begin with engaging discussions that establish key themes, then move into Siena and the surrounding region for experiential learning—meeting artisans, entrepreneurs, and local experts who bring academic ideas to life. In addition to their chosen seminar, students also receive instruction in Italian language, culture, and cuisine.

Seminar Offerings

Business, Banking, & Markets

Fashion & Design

History of Art & Architecture: Siena

Photography: Siena

Politics & Human Rights

Outstanding Faculty & Experts

Our Siena faculty are distinguished educators and accomplished professionals in their fields—artists, historians, linguists, and researchers—who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of thinkers and creators. In addition to seminar instruction, Oxford Academia programs feature guest lectures and workshops with leading voices in the arts, business, and academia, offering students an authentic window into Italy’s cultural and intellectual landscape.

Program Details

Accommodations & Meals

Students and faculty reside together in locally run hotels in the center of Siena, with double or triple rooms and private or en suite bathrooms. Breakfast and dinner are included daily, with lunches enjoyed at local cafés or markets during excursions.

Teaching Methodology

At Oxford Academia, learning is immersive, experiential, and transformative. We combine rigorous academics with field-based study that engages with the cultural, historical, and artistic fabric of Siena and Tuscany. Click here to read more about Our Approach to Learning.

Final Projects, Certificates, & Evaluations

Each student completes a final project that reflects seminar focus, whether presenting original research, sharing a photographic portfolio, or preparing an Italian meal inspired by their studies. Projects are presented during a closing ceremony, where students celebrate their achievements and receive their Oxford Academia ‘Certificate of Completion,’ signed by the Program Director.

Weekend Excursions

On weekends, students travel to Florence, explore Tuscan hill towns, and enjoy cultural and recreational activities such as cooking classes, artisan workshops, and live performances in Siena’s historic piazzas.

Travel Logistics

The program dates reflect the days that students commence, and consequently complete, travel to and from their program. For Siena, this assumes students will fly on an overnight flight to Europe.

Session 1:
July 5–overnight travel to program July 6–program officially begins
July 18–program ends, onward travel home

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Explore the medieval city of San Gimignano and climb its largest remaining tower for a panoramic view of Tuscany.

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Discover world-famous sites like the Feragamo Museum and the Ufizi Gallery through the lens of your seminar.

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Visit this walled city for a glimpse into life in medieval Tuscany.

“Madison absolutely loved her entire experience. She especially enjoyed meeting, interacting, and living together with students from all over the world. We felt that the selection of students in the program provided a terrific learning experience for her.”

“The entire program was outstanding on every level. It was a life-changing experience for our daughter to learn and grow as a student and person.”

“The entire staff was so amazing and made everything a safe and truly wonderful experience, and in a special place. I love them all and I had so much fun.”

Next Steps

Join us this summer in Siena, Italy! Start your application today, or connect with us to discuss the right program for you.