Washington College of Law

The University of Perugia is one of the oldest universities in Europe.  The University was founded in 1308 by a papal bull issued by Pope Clement V and the faculty of law was established only 10 years later.  It is one of the most prestigious law programs in Italy and attracts students from around the world. The university is located in Perugia, the capital city and cultural center of Umbria.

Program Dates:

The program is offered in both the spring and fall semesters.

Fall: Early October – Mid December
Spring: January – Mid May

Language of Instruction:

The official language of instruction at the University of Perugia is Italian and you must be proficient in the language. Courses on comparative law and legal history are available in English and some exams can be written in English, depending on the faculty member teaching the course. However, since the program still requires the student to attend courses in Italian, students applying to the program must submit proof of Italian proficiency.

1. Students with undergraduate or graduate studies in a Italian speaking country must show the certificate or degree obtained within the last five years.
2. Students with Italian majors (in the US) must have obtained their degree within the last five years and must provide a copy of their degree and undergraduate transcript(s). 
3. Students who are not in the conditions mentioned above are required to take a Italian proficiency exam through the Language Department at AU and provide us with their results on the exam. Students must complete the exam within 30 minutes and test into the Third Year (300 Level).

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Courses:

Students will receive up to 12 credits towards their law degree. Only the credits and not the grades will transfer per ABA requirements. The acceptance of any credit or grade for any courses taken at the University of Perugia, including externships and other clinical offerings, is subject to determination by the WCL, Office of the Registrar. WCL students will be enrolled in courses specifically geared to exchange students.

The following is a selection of courses offered at the University of Perugia.

• Law of Arbitration
• European Business Law
• Urban Planning Law
• International Law
• Law of the European Union
• International Criminal Law
• Industrial Law
• Criminal Labor Law

For a complete course listing, please visit the University Of Perugia Faculty Of Law's website.

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Housing and Cost of Living:

The University of Perugia has space available in residence halls for international students.  Available accommodation is assigned on a first come, first serve basis.  Students must submit an accommodation form by June 30th for the fall semester and November 1st for the spring semester.  Private housing is also available in the city of Perugia.

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Contact:

For general questions and concerns please visit the Semester Exchange FAQ page.

All other questions and concerns should be directed to:

Jamie Welling
International Programs Analyst
Semester Exchange Program
American University Washington College of Law
4801 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 355
Washington, DC, 20016 USA
Telephone: (202) 274-4177
Fax: (202) 274-4005
Email: studyabroad@wcl.american.edu

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