Lugano: Combining Theory and Practice in Lugano, Switzerland
Spring Semester, 2022



This program combines classroom instruction with real-world projects. You will earn 18 credits taking classes in Italian, marketing research, consumer behavior and marketing, society, and the public interest. You will also work on a consulting field project to develop a business and marketing plan for a small non-profit organization that delivers programs to vulnerable populations. During your last 10-day break, you will have the opportunity to participate in an experiential service learning project in Ethiopia or Rwanda.
For more information: www.linkinglives.org/spring-semester
You will take classes from Virginia Tech professors at a local university and live at the Montarina Hostel, rated in a Washington Post article as one of the 8 top Youth hostels in the world. You’ll have the weekends and 3 one-week breaks to explore the surrounding areas of Europe. Lugano is on a major rail line between Italy and the rest of Europe. You can reach many wonderful cities in a few hours and will be required to visit at least the following cities during the program: Rome, Florence, Venice, Prague, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, and Munich. Funding for this is listed in the cost section under Required personal travel.
Note: Students cannot remain in the Schengen region for more than 90 days in a 180-day period and must leave this region during the program to comply with this regulation.
Students will receive 18 total credits:
- Consumer Behavior, MKTG 4204 - 3 credits
- Marketing Research, MKTG 4154 - 3 credits
- Marketing, Society, and the Public Interest, MKTG 4644 - 3 credits
- Field Practicum, MKTG 4404 - 3 credits
- Elementary Italian, ITAL 1105, 3 credits
- Study Abroad, MKTG 3954 - 3 credits
Academic Opportunities Available:
Earn a marketing cognate! (communication majors only)
Pre-requisite course: Marketing Management, MKTG 3104 (course needs to be completed prior to the semester abroad)
Contact Information
Dr. David Brinberg
2019 Pamplin
540-231-7639
brinberg@vt.edu
Ellie Walters
1046 Pamplin Hall
(540) 231-3208
leighucc@vt.edu