Program Overview

Program Overview

The Clark Honors College in Siena offers a unique blend of historical and contemporary studies led by Professor Kate Mondloch. This four-week program explores the visual culture of medieval Siena, examining how art, architecture, and traditions shaped civic pride, religious devotion, and communal identity. Complementing this historical perspective, the program investigates the relationships between mindfulness, technology, and well-being, developing practical strategies for cultivating self-awareness and balance in our hyper-connected world.

Program Details

• Language Requirement: None
• Academic Standing by Program Start: Sophomore or Above
• Location: Europe, Italy
• GPA: 2.5

Highlights

• On-site learning at historic Sienese locations
• Visits to local farms and vineyards
• A day trip to Florence
• Opportunity to witness the Palio horse race

Dates and Deadlines

Academic Details

Students will take two courses during this four-week program, earning eight credits total.

• HC 431 Mindful Living in the Digital Age - 4 credits (40 contact hours)
• HC 434/421 Art and Identity in Medieval Siena - 4 credits (40 contact hours)

Faculty and Staff

• Dr. Kate Mondloch (PhD, UCLA) is a professor in the Department of the History of Art and Architecture in the College of Design and a Faculty Fellow in the CHC at the University of Oregon.
• Dr. Daniele Di Lodovico (PhD, University of Washington) is an instructor at Oregon State University specializing in the visual culture of the Middle Ages.

Housing Description

Experience life as part of an authentic Italian neighborhood, living within the medieval city walls of Siena. Residences are spread out within the city center, all within easy walking distance of the program center.

Budget and Price

Clark Honors College in Siena

2026 Summer (Four Weeks)

• GEO Program Fees
  • UO Study Abroad Fee: $500
  • Program Tuition: $6,215
  • Housing: $1,488
  • Insurance: $147
• Estimated Additional Expenses
  • Estimated Cost to Acquire US Passport: $1,500
  • Estimated Airfare from Eugene: $1,200
  • Estimated Additional Meals: $1,000
  • Estimated Additional Living Expenses: $800

Scholarship Opportunity

Applicants to this program are eligible for program-specific scholarship funds. Award recipients are chosen based on academic merit, financial need, and overall quality of their essay. Individual awards range from $500-$1,500.

Discount for Pell Recipients

To expand access to study abroad, a $500 discount is offered for this program to students who currently have the Pell Grant as part of their federal financial aid (FAFSA).