- Rome, Italy
*Program is planning to run in 2027* This program offers the unique opportunity to explore first-hand the history and politics of papal succession and church policy in Rome, Italy. Specifically, we will concentrate on Pope Francis, the Holy See, the Vatican, and the world that it serves. The course will introduce, describe, and analyze how the Church makes its decisions and why. In addition to a regular classroom schedule, we will visit the great churches of Rome, meet with the Princes of the Church, and observe the church's far-reaching influence. By the end of the course, students will have developed an understanding of the church as a historical, religious, and political organization. Local program staff organize orientation and housing and support students throughout the program's duration.
Sponsored by College of Liberal Arts
Course(s)
-
GOV 355M
/
LAH 350
/
T C 358
- POPE FRANCIS'S CATHOLIC CHURCH: THE MAKING OF THE MODERN PAPACY
and
L A 119 - International Learning Seminar
Academic Information
3 hours of in-residence credit are earned upon completion. Maymester courses are included in spring registration, although they occur immediately following the spring semester. Course grades are factored into the UT GPA. Please note that two supplemental essays are required to apply.
Faculty
Professor Theriault teaches courses on the U.S. Congress and Party Polarization in the United States; subjects of which he has written three books. He has received numerous teaching distinctions, including being inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Teachers inductee (2012) and the Regent's Outstanding Teaching Award recipient (2014).
Language(s) of Instruction
English
Eligibility
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance
- UT enrollment during spring semester preceding the program.
- Open to all UT students in good standing
- No foreign language requirement
Service Learning/Internship
- Service Learning - No
- Internship - No
Housing
Students stay in shared apartments with laundry and kitchen faculties. Apartments are located in central Rome near to public transport and are furnished and overseen by on the ground partners. Students are required to stay in program housing.
Open To
Students from all colleges and schools
Program Cost
Program fee is an estimate based on 2025 costs. Program fee includes housing, excursions, administrative/instructional costs, and on-site orientation. Program fee does not include airfare, books, insurance, most meals, or personal expenses. Scholarship applications are due by November 1, 2026.
Dates:
- Program: May 11, 2027 to June 2, 2027
- Instructional: May 11, 2027 to June 2, 2027
- Final Deadline: November 1, 2026
Application Code
355075
Program Coordinator
Kassey Rocha
Additional Resources
Program Website
Scholarships
Financial Aid
Fin Responsibility Policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Video
Events Calendar
Information Session
Next Step
Plan to attend an info session in Fall 2026 to learn more! For more info, contact program coordinator Kassey Rocha at kassey.rocha@austin.utexas.edu. Don't forget the program application includes two supplemental essays! Scholarship applications are due by November 1, 2026.