Choosing to study at an American university abroad is exciting, but it can also raise a lot of questions. One of the most common we hear from prospective students is:
“What should I expect from an American university setting?”
At John Cabot University in Rome, students experience the best of both worlds: a U.S. accredited education in the heart of Italy. If you’re wondering how an American liberal arts university works and what your academic life would look like, here’s a helpful guide to get you started!
American liberal arts universities are known for their emphasis on personal attention, and at JCU, every student is assigned an Academic Advisor, who is a faculty member teaching within their major or a related discipline.
Your advisor helps you choose courses, explore degree options, and make academic decisions. They are also available for guidance on internships, graduate school applications, and job opportunities, so you always have support as you plan your future.
One of the most defining features of an American university experience is the classroom environment.
This interactive approach builds confidence, communication skills, and the ability to think critically in any career field. Students participate through:
Like other American universities, JCU uses a credit system.
Students with no transfer credits can usually complete their degree in four years (eight semesters). Students entering with prior coursework or a 13-year secondary school diploma may be able to graduate in less time. American universities also use year-based classifications:
To graduate from JCU with a bachelor's degree, students must:
The American Bachelor of Arts degree focuses on a breadth of study as well as specialization within a major field.
Breadth:
All students complete Proficiency Requirements and General Requirements in areas such as:
Specialization:
Students choose a major and complete required courses plus electives in that field. Many students also add a minor to expand their skills or explore a secondary interest. This academic diversity helps students:
Courses Taught in English
All classes are taught in English (except advanced foreign language and literature courses). This makes JCU accessible to international students while preparing graduates for global work environments.
Students often say that the American university model at JCU helps them:
Whether you choose Business, Art History, International Affairs, Communications, Marketing, or another field, you’ll gain both academic knowledge and real-world abilities.
If you’re looking for an American university experience with small classes, personalized support, and a campus community from around the world, JCU offers a truly unique opportunity, right in the center of Rome.
Visit John Cabot University in Rome!
There’s no better way to understand the American university experience than by seeing it for yourself.
➡️ Book a campus visit and explore our Trastevere campuses, meet current students, and learn more about life at JCU.
Ready to Apply?
There's no better time to take the next step toward your future at John Cabot University! Visit our Undergraduate Admissions page to learn how to apply, which documents you'll need, and how to explore tuition and financial aid options.
If you have any questions about the application process, please contact us at admissions@johncabot.edu.