Thomistic Institute Study Abroad
Ancient & Medieval Rome: In the footsteps of Thomas Aquinas
You already love engaging with the Thomistic intellectual tradition through the Thomistic Institute podcast and campus lectures. Why not study the Angelic Doctor for a full semester at the Angelicum in Rome - a university that descends from the 13th-century studium for which Aquinas wrote the Summa Theologica?
A Rome Program Unlike Any Other
This is no generic study abroad program! With the Thomistic Institute, you will encounter Rome as a crossroads of intellectual traditions from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East using the life and works of Thomas Aquinas - one of history's most important philosophers - as a touchstone.
Explore Courses
Our vision is an academically-serious humanities program rooted in the Thomistic intellectual tradition.
Discover life as a study abroad student
Class Trips
Housing
The Thomistic Institute houses all students in a guest house on the grounds of the Irish College, a small, gated campus located within the walls of the ancient city.
Cost & Finances
Interested in applying?
Applications for the Spring Semester 2026 are closed.
To stay in the loop and receive program updates regarding applications for Spring Semester 2027, join our no-commitment email list.
What Alumni Have to Say About TI Study Abroad
Meet Two Students from the Class of '2025, Georgia and Kevin
Georgia, University of Tulsa
Major: Biology
Favorite TI Class: European Art, Politics, and Religion: Medieval to Renaissance
"I had the most fun because we were able to experience what we learned in lectures through class trips! This class covered Italian culture from the fall of the Roman Empire to the beginning of the Renaissance, illuminating for us the so-called 'dark ages.'"
Favorite TI Excursion: Siena, Orvieto, Montepulciano, and Pienza Overnight Trip
"The Tuscan countryside is one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen, with wheat fields and olive groves and colonnades of cypress lining the roads. Orvieto, Montepulciano, and Pienza are all picturesque brick hilltop cities with walls, fortresses, and churches looming over vineyards and gardens. The cathedrals of Siena and Orvieto contain the artwork of the best artists of the middle ages and early renaissance. The food was also delicious, especially some rosemary pecorino we got in Pienza!"
Kevin, Pomona College
Major: International Relations
Favorite TI Class: Integrating Capstone: Ancient & Medieval Rome – Crossroads of Intellectual Traditions
"It was a fascinating introduction to Thomistic thought and a unique chance to engage deeply with the intellectual traditions we encountered that semester. We met around a long table in the beautiful classroom called the 'Sala Torretta' at the Angelicum, overlooking Rome. The intimate setting and small class—just our cohort—fostered meaningful conversations and helped us grow closer as a group."
Favorite TI Excursion: Bologna and Ravenna Overnight Trip
"Walking beneath Bologna's beautiful and iconic porticos offered a glimpse into the city's unique and rich history. A highlight was visiting the Basilica di San Domenico, where we studied the ornate tomb of Saint Dominic, exploring its theological and artistic significance. We also traveled to Ravenna, once the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Together, we explored some of the most precious and best-preserved mosaics in Europe, which became a key reference point throughout our course, European Art, Politics, and Religion: Medieval to Renaissance."
Meet the Administrator: Rebecca Marisseau, Ph.D.
Rebecca Marisseau earned her doctorate in History from Brown University. She studied for a semester in Rome and held an internship in the archaeological study collection at the American Academy in Rome. She is enthusiastic about helping students discover the treasures of the Eternal City through the TI study abroad program!
Questions about the program may be directed to Dr. Marisseau at rmarisseau@dhs.edu
Join our email list for the latest updates!
Growing in Faith and Intellect
I had the ability to take amazing classes about the Thomistic intellectual tradition with some of the most knowledgeable Dominican friars out there, and I was with a group of fifteen other students who were all there for the same reason I was, which was to grow in their faith and to grow in their intellect and understanding of God through their studies. It was just such a privilege.
Thomas, Study Abroad Class of 2024
Harvard University