If you have questions about this program, email the program leader listed below.

Cultural Neuropsychology: A Global Practicum in Brain, Behavior, and Culture

Program Details

The arrangements for the travel, housing, meals, excursions and course content of this program have been made by the leader. Questions about this program can only be answered by the program leader listed below.
Program Type Departmental
Program Location Rome, Pompeii, Italy
Course # SA 10224
Duration Summer
Upcoming Program Dates
Summer 2026 05/11/26 to 05/21/26

Program Leader

Name Jill Gulker
Email jgulker@purdue.edu
Click here to enroll in this program!
Please Note: Programs may be altered or adapted with little notice

Program Description

This short-term study abroad course offers students a unique opportunity to explore how different cultural environments interact with neural processes to shape human thought, emotion, and behavior. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, the course examines how sociocultural systems influence neural development, cognition, and emotion, while also considering how neuropsychological processes contribute to cultural practices.

Students will engage in immersive, place-based learning, guided site visits, and structured observations. Faculty will help students apply theories of neuroplasticity, conditioning, and sociocultural shaping to real-world cultural contexts.

Highlights & Activities

  • Guided site visits: Colosseum & Roman Forum, Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel, Galleria Borghese, Castel Sant’Angelo

  • Full-day excursion to Pompeii

  • Cultural activities: welcome meal, farewell dinner, cooking class, walking tours

  • Guest lecture at IES Abroad Rome Center

  • 20+ hours of classroom engagement at the IES Abroad Rome Center

Academic Credit

Course: PSY 392 (3 credits)

Eligibility

  • Open to all Purdue undergraduates in good academic and disciplinary standing

  • Must be 18 years of age by program start

  • No prerequisites required; students from all majors welcome

Program Cost

Students pursuing program participation accept financial responsibility. Purdue will take measures to mitigate financial risks, although will not be liable for loss.

  • $3751.70

    • Costs are estimates and do not include international airfare. Final rates will be confirmed once the Study Abroad Office approves the program budget.

    Program cost includes: housing in Rome, local transportation passes, guided tours, excursions, cultural activities, orientation, emergency support, and international health insurance. Meals are not included, except for group meals noted in the itinerary.

Application Deadline

  • Application Deadline: March 1, 2026

  • Enrollment & Deposit Deadline: March 15, 2026

Financial Aid

Purdue University financial aid may be applied to the costs of studying abroad. Students interested in receiving financial aid should

NOTE:  Recipients of certain tuition remission and scholarship programs should pay careful attention to the regulations for using those benefits for study abroad.  Ask your financial aid advisor about any limitations.

Click here for a list of scholarships and grants available to assist with the costs of studying overseas.