Italy (Rome, Assisi, Venice) May 2025

COR 375 with Dave Hopper

Explore Italy’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage with visits to Rome, Assisi, and Venice. In Rome, discover the layers of history, from ancient ruins to the vibrant political system, and experience the influence of the Roman Church with a visit to the Vatican and a stay in a convent. In Assisi, reflect on the Renaissance and themes of personal responsibility amid the peaceful beauty of this hill town. Conclude in Venice, where winding canals and iconic landmarks showcase Italy’s creativity and resilience. This journey offers a profound look at how faith, culture, and history intersect in one of the world’s most captivating countries. You will travel extensively in the country by train, the way Italians and other Europeans do.

Trip Costs

$2,700 student cost*

*Cost with the CCS Subsidy. The $200 nonrefundable application fee is not included in this amount. The CCS Subsidy applies to 1st CCS program only. 

Students are responsible for tuition for COR374 and COR375, as well as a $200 nonrefundable application fee. A current passport is required.

CCS trips are not guaranteed and are subject to change.

Students in a boat going along a river in Italy.

Education

Italy is known for its “integrative” approach to education. We study how all subject matters are processed through a cross-discipline lens.

Government

Civic participation is a hallmark of what it is to be Italian! As a result, there are now over 14 political parties with representation in the government and, since the end of World War II, there have been 69 different administrations! We observe how the seeming chaos of the political system somehow functions to make Italy one of the freest countries on Earth.

Economics

The mixed economy of Italy (capitalism/ socialism “lite”) makes for a wonderful venue for exploring the big cultural ideas, such as prosperity, compassion, economic freedom, mutuality, personal responsibility, collectivism/ individualism, and motivation to reach across “tribal” boundaries.

Religion

The Roman church has had a great influence in shaping Italian culture. Visit the Vatican and stay in a convent to better understand religious life in Italy. Discover how growing secularism and a rapidly rising Muslim minority have made Italy once again a major mission field for the cause of Christ.

  • Discovering the rich cultural heritage of Italy.
  • Visiting Rome, Pompeii, Florence, Venice, and other exciting places.
  • Experiencing Milan, where the world’s 4th largest Gothic Cathedral sits in the middle of the fashion district.
  • Exploring Castelrotto in the Dolomites, a mountainous region near the Austrian border, where German is spoken.
  • Learning about the history and impact of the Renaissance.
  • Reveling in the Umbrian hill town of Assisi and picturesque La Cinque Terre, five colorful cities nestled along the Mediterranean coast.
Departure Dates

May 2025 experiences will begin sometime during the week following the projected May commencement date and will last several weeks. Students should not make irreversible plans until their departure date is confirmed by the CCS office in February 2025.

Health and Safety

This experience, like all CCS experiences, is subject to political and safety realities at the time of departure. CCS options can be physically and emotionally intense and stretching. Before enrolling, all participants should consult the disclosures on Physical Hardships of CCS. For more details on recommended immunizations consult the immunizations chart. Passport required at additional cost.