Program Overview
Coldigioco, whose name literally means "Hill of Play," is a small village with a unique history. It is scenically positioned on a narrow ridge that extends eastward from the foot of Monte San Vicino, the dominant Apennine mountain in the region. The village consists of 10 separate buildings, most of which are now associated with the Osservatorio Geologico di Coldigioco (OGC).The program takes place at the Osservatorio Geologico di Coldigioco (OGC). Located in the beautiful, tiny hilltop village of Coldigioco in the Apennine mountains of central Italy, the OGC is an independent center for research and education in geology, art, and cuisine. Courses seek to maximize the opportunities offered by this unique setting.
This program will consist of two courses that aim to develop basic field geology skills while assembling a broad range of observations that will lead to an integrated understanding the origin and evolution of the Northern Apennines mountains. Students enrolled in the program participate in two classes: Introductory Field Geology in Italy (GEOSC 297) and The Tectonic Evolution of Italy (GEOSC 397).
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Students will take 6 credits total consisting of:
GEOSC 297 (3 credits)
GEOSC 397 (3 credits)
You will receive credit for all academic courses taken on this program, and all of your grades from abroad will count toward your Penn State cumulative GPA. You may not take any courses overseas of a Pass/Fail basis. To learn how the courses on this program can work into your individual degree audit, meet with your academic adviser.
Students may not take sport or physical activity courses (e.g. sailing, bowling, yoga, etc.) abroad. These courses will not be credited at Penn State.
Pre-requisites
Successful applicants will satisfy the pre-requisites established by the program:
Housing and Meals
You will live in an apartment on-site at the OGC. Most of the buildings in Coldigioco are renovated 300-400 year old residential or farm buildings which are rustic and each beautiful in their own way. There are four main buildings which house visitors. Each room holds anywhere from two to four people. Meals are included as a part of the program.
Program Costs
For more information on program costs, please be sure to review the Summer budget sheet. These budget sheets include information on costs that are billable to the bursar bill, as well as estimated additional costs. Costs vary by program, so it is important to review this information carefully.
Please note that tuition rates may vary depending on major and class standing.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Penn State students studying through Education Abroad can use most components of their existing financial aid packages toward the cost of study abroad. This may include federal and state grants, VA educational benefits, federal student loans, and University scholarships and grants. Notable exceptions include work-study awards and some athletic scholarships.
The University Office of Global Programs also administers a number of grants and scholarships. Eligibility is based on academic excellence and/or financial need. There is also funding available for study abroad programs in diverse locations and for students from diverse backgrounds. In most cases, applicants should have a current year FAFSA on file with the Office of Student Aid. Funding opportunities may also be available through Penn State academic departments. For detailed information on financial aid and scholarship opportunities and application procedures, please visit the Funding Study Abroad section of the Global Penn State website.
For More Information
For more information about programs and education abroad at Penn State, we encourage you to meet with or contact our Peer Advisers. These study abroad returnees can explain program options, give an overview of the education abroad process, as well as provide information about his/her program. If you are not at University Park, contact your Campus Global Representative.
To learn more about the specifics of the program, schedule an appointment with the education abroad adviser for the program. You may also contact Dave Bice, the faculty leader for the program.
For the inside scoop on life in a foreign country, be sure to check out the Student Spotlights of Penn State students currently studying abroad.
How to Apply
If you would like to participate on this study abroad program, you will need to apply to Penn State Education Abroad by clicking the "Apply Now" button on this page. You must complete the following materials in your application:
- Education Abroad Questionnaire
- One academic recommendation
- Signature Documents
Visit the How to Apply section of our website for more information.
Application deadline: February 1, 2018
Studying Abroad with a Disability
Many students with disabilities successfully study abroad each year. Please note that other cultures may have different attitudes and available accommodations regarding disabilities. While we cannot guarantee the accessibility of all program sites and locations, specific accommodations may be arranged in consultation with our office, the Student Disability Resources office, and our partners abroad. To prepare for success, students are strongly encouraged to research the country and program location to consider if and how they will manage their disabilities abroad in advance of selecting a program. Students with disabilities and other diverse backgrounds can begin their research on our Diversity Awareness Abroad page.
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