Program Overview

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Introduction to the Florence Summer Law Program

The Florence Summer Law Program is an exciting opportunity for law students to gain an international perspective on the law, learn from global experts, and immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience. Held at Gonzaga's Florence campus, the program offers a unique blend of academic and cultural activities.

Program Details

Duration and Dates

The 2026 Florence Summer Law Program will be offered from May 17 to June 12, 2026.

Application Process

Applications for the 2026 program are now open. For non-Gonzaga Law students, applications must include an official copy of their transcript and a letter of good standing.

Tuition and Fees

The 2026 tuition rates are:

• $6,600 for the five-credit program with the mediation competition
• $5,600 for the four-credit program without the mediation competition Other costs include:
  • Application fee: $100 (non-refundable)
  • Program fee deposit: $250 (non-refundable)
  • Anticipated living costs: $3,000 for lodging, food, and related expenses
  • Travel expenses: Roundtrip airfare between Spokane and Florence costs around $1,500
  • Course books

Financial Aid

Students may apply for federal student loans to cover the cost of tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, personal miscellaneous expenses, and transportation.

Refund Policies

The $100 application fee and deposit are non-refundable. If the Florence program is cancelled or materially altered, students will be notified in writing promptly and given an opportunity to withdraw, or notified that any tuition deposit will be refunded within 30 days.

Academic Requirements

Course Offerings

Students take two two-credit courses from the following course offerings, plus an optional one-credit mediation program and competition with the University of Florence School of Law, for a total of five academic credits:

• Comparative Criminal Law
• Comparative Constitutional Law
• International Conflict Management
• International Human Rights Law
• Law and Leadership
• Transitional Justice

Academic Standards

Standards for academic credit include grades ranging from "A" to "F". Students from law schools other than Gonzaga must determine the transferability of grades and credits earned in the program to their home institutions.

Faculty

The Florence Summer Law Program features a distinguished faculty, including:

• Upendra Acharya, Director, Global Legal Education; Professor of Law
• Michael Cecil, Assistant Professor of Law
• Inga Laurent, Professor of Law
• Samuel Newton, Associate Professor of Law
• Jacob H. Rooksby, Smithmoore P. Myers Dean of Gonzaga University School of Law; Professor of Law

Requirements and Eligibility

Passport and Visa Requirements

Valid passports are required for travel to Italy. Many countries require at least six months or more left before the passport expires for entrance.

Health Insurance

Students accepted into the Florence Summer Law Program will be issued International Health Insurance for the program duration.

Cancellation Policy

Gonzaga reserves the right to alter or cancel the Florence Summer Law Program. Cancellation could occur if the program does not meet a minimum enrollment by March 1 of the year applied for, or if unforeseen international events occur that would substantially adversely affect program operations or seriously compromise student safety.

Conclusion

The Florence Summer Law Program offers a unique and enriching experience for law students. With its diverse course offerings, distinguished faculty, and cultural activities, the program provides an ideal opportunity for students to gain an international perspective on the law and develop their skills in a global context.