The Santa Reparata International School of Art is an independent non-profit school that provides academic-year and semester studio art programs, short workshops, and summer classes of the highest caliber.  Founded in 1970, the school’s curricula and class schedules are based on the American University model and are taught in English; however students come from many countries and cultural backgrounds.  A mixture of hands-on courses in studio art, and the intellectual and cultural background provided by academic study, provides students who wish to study abroad with an experience in Florence that is authentic and enriching. The facilities of the school are extensive including darkrooms, print presses, computer labs, a language lab, library, and internet access are available.  The faculty and staff are highly qualified professionals from all over the world.  All credits granted through Santa Reparata will appear on a Columbia College Chicago transcript.  Columbia College Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.           Admission Requirements & Recommendations  Students must be at least 18 years of age (there is no maximum age limit)  Must maintain a 2.0 GPA in all college work attempted  Submit an official high school or college transcript  Must have a high school diploma, or equivalent G.E.D.       University Statistics  The faculty and staff are highly qualified professionals from all over the world  Originally established in 1970  Credits granted through Santa Reparata will appear on a Columbia College Chicago transcript  Located in an historic 19th century building whose garden was once a part of the first art academy in Italy founded by Lorenzo de Medici