Ferrara Programs
Hospital Shadowing
The program in Ferrara offers a diverse range of shadowing opportunities that encompass both surgical and medical fields within a teaching hospital.
Arcispedale Sant'Anna, Ferrara
With an impressive capacity of 742 regular inpatient beds, plus an additional 148 beds dedicated to day hospital patients, the Arcispedale Sant’Anna in Ferrara is the largest and most important hospital in Ferrara and its province, as well as one of the primary and most significant polyclinics in the Emilia-Romagna region.
The hospital has a long history of serving the community, having been established over 500 years ago.
As an academic hospital, the Arcispedale Sant’Anna in Ferrara is closely affiliated with the University of Ferrara, which has a long and rich history in the field of medicine. In fact, the School of Medicine at the University of Ferrara has been active since the Renaissance, making it one of the oldest medical schools in the world.
Today the Arcispedale Sant’Anna is a large and well-equipped medical facility that provides a wide range of services to patients from around the world.
One of the specialties of the Arcispedale Sant’Anna is Cardiology, and it’s no wonder why the hospital has been included in the 2023 Newsweek World’s Best Specialized Hospitals for Cardiology.
The hospital boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced cardiologists who are dedicated to providing exceptional care to patients with cardiovascular diseases. They work tirelessly to develop new treatment strategies and procedures that help patients recover faster and with fewer complications.
The Arcispedale Sant’Anna offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including highly specialized services in oncology, general surgery, clinical pharmacy, ophthalmology, vascular surgery, pathology, cardiac rehabilitation, neurology, and other areas of medicine.
In addition to its cutting-edge medical facilities and patient-centered approach to care, the Arcispedale Sant’Anna in Ferrara also offers a unique space for patients and visitors of all faiths to find a moment of peace and solitude. The “Silence room” is a tranquil space where those of all religions, as well as those who do not practice any religion, can go for a moment of recollection.
The “Silence room” is a reflection of the hospital’s commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. It is just one of the many ways that the Arcispedale Sant’Anna in Ferrara goes above and beyond to ensure that every patient feels supported and cared for during their time at the hospital.
It’s worth mentioning that as Ferrara is located in close proximity to Bologna, program participants will have the opportunity to visit this vibrant city and meet other fellows who are shadowing doctors at the Policlinico Sant’Orsola.
This presents a unique chance to network and share experiences with other fellows, as well as explore another charming city in the Emilia-Romagna region.
Discover Ferrara
Ferrara is a small, charming city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy.
This city, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts an incredible collection of cultural and artistic treasures, and is a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world.
The city’s rich history dates back to the Middle Ages, and it has been ruled by various influential families throughout the centuries, including the Este family, who were responsible for the city’s most notable architectural achievements.
One of the city’s most famous landmarks, the Castello Estense, was built in the 14th century and served as the Este family’s fortress.
Today, Ferrara is renowned for its stunning Renaissance architecture, which can be seen throughout the city’s historic center.
One of the most striking examples of this architectural style is the Palazzo dei Diamanti, which was built in the 15th century and features a façade adorned with diamond-shaped blocks of marble. The palazzo is now home to the National Gallery of Art, which houses a collection of Italian Renaissance paintings.
The city is also home to numerous churches, many of which date back to the Middle Ages. One of the most notable of these is the Cathedral of San Giorgio, which was built in the 12th century and boasts a beautiful façade adorned with intricate reliefs.
The cathedral also houses numerous works of art, including paintings by Giambattista Tiepolo and Cosmè Tura.
In addition to its architectural and artistic treasures, Ferrara is also famous for its cuisine.
The region is known for its rich, flavorful dishes, many of which feature fresh local ingredients such as prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and balsamic vinegar. One of the city’s most famous dishes is cappellacci di zucca, a type of stuffed pasta that is filled with pumpkin and topped with a rich sauce made from butter, sage, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Ferrara is also home to several annual festivals and events, which draw visitors from all over the world. One of the most popular of these is the Palio di Ferrara, a medieval festival that takes place every year in May. During the festival, the city’s historic center is transformed into a medieval village, complete with jousting tournaments, parades, and traditional food and drink.
For those looking for a more modern experience, Ferrara also offers a thriving nightlife scene. The city is home to numerous bars and clubs, many of which are located in the historic center.
One of the best ways to experience Ferrara is by simply walking around the city and taking in its many sights and sounds. The historic center is largely closed to traffic, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. One of the most picturesque spots in the city is the Piazza del Municipio, which features the imposing Palazzo Municipale and the stunning Palazzo dei Diamanti.
Ferrara is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern Italy. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s many cultural treasures or simply relaxing and enjoying its vibrant atmosphere, Ferrara is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Housing in Ferrara
To ensure a comfortable and secure experience for all program participants, we have selected a range of housing options providing comfort, convenience, and a pleasant stay.
Depending on availability, you may be accommodated in an elegant apartment, a hotel room, or another type of comfortable dwelling.
Regardless of the specific housing option, all of our accommodations are guaranteed to be clean, safe, and comfortable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the study abroad experience, explore Ferrara, and get much-needed rest between long days of shadowing.
The most common accommodation is in shared apartments with one or two double rooms. All apartments are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms, and many also have a kitchen, living room, desks, and a washing machine.
The apartments are located in central and safe areas of Ferrara, with easy access to shops, pharmacies, train stations, and a variety of restaurants and grocery stores.
Please note that the quality of housing may vary and is dependent on available providers. Nonetheless, we are confident that you will enjoy your stay, as we carefully select our providers and work closely with them to ensure a high standard of safety, cleanliness, and comfort.
Dates and fees
2-week program
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I term: May 8 – May 19
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II term: May 22 – June 2
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III term June 5 – June 16
3-week program
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I term: June 19 – July 7
4-week program
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I term: May 22 – June 16
5-week program
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I term: June 19 - July 21
Included with the fees
- Shadowing ≈ 20 hours per week
- At least 4 rotations
- Accommodation
- 24/7 on-site support
- 3-credit course with Arcadia University
- Medical and travel insurance
- Transportation
- Excursions and cultural immersion
- Airport pick-up and chek-in upon arrival
- Pre-program and post-program support

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