Bologna Consortial Studies Program (BCSP)
Northwestern Requirements
- Full-year: At least 2 years or the equivalent of college level Italian (Spring: 2.5 years or the equivalent of college level Italian)
- B average in all Italian courses
- Students must interview with a member of the Northwestern Department of French and Italian as part of the application process (see application details below).
Program Requirements
Northwestern and Indiana University act together as the admitting institution for Northwestern students applying to this program.Academic Specialties
Italian Language and Culture, Fine Arts, Classics, Political Science/International Relations, History, Theatre, and Literature.Course Type
Students generally take a combination of language and area studies courses taught in Italian by the BCSP program, just for program students, and regular University of Bologna courses. If their Italian language skills are strong enough, students may also choose to directly enroll in University courses only. All students participate in a month-long pre-session before the beginning of the year or semester and receive one-on-one academic advising with the Resident Director upon arrival to determine their course enrollments and abilities.Additional Information
Enrichment Opportunities: There are several excursions planned by BCSP throughout the program to locations near Bologna, which may include Verona, Ravenna, Tuscany, or Urbino. Also, due to the length of this program, students often find ways to get thoroughly involved with the community in Bologna. Some students choose to participate in volunteer activities or non-credit internships, others partner with native speakers to practice language. Students are responsible for seeking out their own activities, but may seek advice from the BCSP program staff.About Bologna:
Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. The city has one of the best-preserved historic centers in Italy and is known for its beauty, amazing food, porticoes and politics. It is home to approximately 500,000 inhabitants in the city, and about 1 million in the metropolitan area. Known as a student-friendly city, Bologna remains relatively tourist free - letting the locals enjoy one of the highest standards of living (and some of the best restaurants) in Italy.
Housing
Apartments- BCSP students find and rent their own housing in apartments in the city center. The program office in Bologna may provide assistance.
- All students are strongly advised to share apartments with Italians.
Program Costs
Academic Year 2009-2010: $44,625
- This includes the estimated cost of tuition, room, board, books, transportation, personal expenses and SAAF. The sample costs provided are for the full academic year. For the most current cost, contact the sponsoring organization.
Approximate Program Size
- 40-50 students from a variety of Big Ten universities, most of whom attend the program for the full academic year
- University of Bologna: 70,000 students
Application Requirements
Prior to receiving an application, all Northwestern students must complete the following steps:- Complete the mandatory Study Abroad 101 Quiz on Blackboard. Call 847-467-6400 or e-mail studyabroad@northwestern.edu (include your name and netID) to register for this quiz.
- After receiving a score of 90% or above, students can pick up the Northwestern University Application for Permission to Study Abroad at the Study Abroad Office. This application it is not available online.
- Northwestern University Application for Permission to Study Abroad.
- This program requires that all applicants interview with Professor Thomas Simpson in the Department of French and Italian prior to submitting the Northwestern Application. To schedule an interview, please e-mail Professor Simpson well in advance of Northwestern's application deadline.

