The Venice Study Group is open to students from all concentrations who have a strong interest in Italy's cultural heritage and in its position within the world of modern culture. The interdisciplinary program of study is designed to give students direct experience with Italy's cultural past and a critical look at its present. Students will have the opportunity to study at first hand archaeological sites and museums, the art and architecture of Venice, historical collections and archives in Venice and other Italian cities. By participating in the study group, students should acquire a deeper sense of the temporal development of western civilization as well as a better understanding of contemporary Italy. All courses are staffed by the director or specialists residing in Italy and are open to study group students only.
Instruction is in English except for the language component.
Colgate's affiliation with the University of Venice gives students access to the university libraries, dining halls and e-mail services. In addition, several other excellent libraries in Venice are open to students. The study group is also affiliated with the Venice Institute. The first three courses described below form the required program core offered annually. The fourth course varies from year to year, reflecting the particular academic background of the director who accompanies the group.