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Academics

Fields of Study: Environmental Studies, Earth and Space Sciences

Pack your hiking boots and get ready to get your hands and feet dirty on a program that covers the environmental impact of volcanic activity. The volcanology program in Sicily includes a theoretical volcanology course, regular field work with faculty guidance, and scientific writing. You'll collect data related to volcanic and seismic activity and perform risk assessment and mitigation. 

Unique Study Opportunities

  • Conduct field research under the supervision of a senior researcher from the National Institute of Volcanology and Geophysics.
  • Review modern volcano monitoring techniques through site visits.
  • Examine first-hand the geological history of Mt. Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano.
  • Present your research to a panel of experts in the field of volcanology and geophysics.

Language

Language of Instruction: English

Language Study: None

The program includes 9 hours' worth of sessions on survival Italian language to help you navigate life in Italy. These sessions are held throughout your time in Sicily and are not for academic credit.

Courses and Credit

REQUIREMENTS WHILE ABROAD

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take two courses for a total of 9 quarter/6 semester UC units.
  • You may take one course pass/no pass.

CURRENT PROGRAM COURSES

During the program, you'll take a volcanology course alongside the field research course. Courses are upper division. You will conduct your research in small groups. 

Additional or optional coursework, internships, or research outside the program are not possible.

Catalogs and Resources

  • UCEAP Course Catalog: See a list of courses students have taken on this program. 
  • Campus Credit Abroad: Learn the types of credit (major, minor, general education, elective) students from your campus received at this location. There are currently no listings for this program in the database.

Academic Culture

Classes are small and the courses are designed for UC students. You'll attend the program with other UC students and potentially a small number of non-UC students from the US.

The research paper, exams, and symposium presentation are required components of the curriculum. The faculty are all local residents of Sicily. 

Each course meets three times a week with occasional weekend excursions, you will be in class Monday through Friday. You are required to attend class, arrive punctually, and participate actively in your courses. Attendance is taken at every course meeting.

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework. Grades for this program are usually available in September.