BA Italian Studies

As an Italian studies major, you go beyond standard impressions of Italy and explore the country's vital role in the transnational development of culture. You study language and culture in introductory courses, and in more advanced courses learn to use criticism and theory to explore literature, film and history. Our goal is to sharpen your critical appreciation of Italy and also your own native culture -- and to prepare you for a career in an increasingly global landscape. We encourage you to think broadly and pursue independent studies. Recent students have gone abroad to research a variety of issues, including the emergence of feminist centers in Italy and how China's expanding market is threatening the stability of the Italian fashion industry. Other students have secured internships in Italy to study such topics as the promotion of alternative energy in Italy. Ultimately our goal is to teach those skills that are necessary for students aspiring to grow into bold inquisitive young scholars, prepared professionals and global citizens.