Studying Italian at DU will foster your ability to master more than one language and culture, an asset as a global citizen. In the Italian concentration, you’ll study the Italian language and its manifestations in history as well as cultural studies from the past to the present. Our faculty work closely with students to build an understanding of the relationship between language and culture through small, interactive classes and independent study programs.
Any language study requires immersion, and we offer study abroad options that support a variety of student interests. You can study language in Perugia, learn about business in Milan and Turin, or enhance your understanding of Italian art in Florence. There are multiple ways to tie your studies into key out-of-classroom experiences, such as visiting performers, films, internships and extracurricular activities right on campus. You’ll finish the Italian degree with the necessary linguistic and cultural background to pursue prestigious fellowships or attend graduate school in Italian Studies. You’ll also gain a foundation of experience to achieve professional goals in the world of business, international relations and education.
Featured Courses
ITAL 2005
Reading and Conversation
About this Course
In Reading and Conversation, students learn the ease of expression in Italian through the intermediate-level reading of cultural and literary materials and through the study of vocabulary. Readings and contemporary issues are discussed in class.
ITAL 2201
20th-Century History and Culture
About this Course
This course provides a historical and cultural approach to 20th-century Italy. Students refine their critical thinking skills as well as substantially develop their argumentative skills. This course centers on selected authors, literary movements, genres and historical and contemporary cultural phenomena in Italy. Topics may include film, TV, poetry, short stories, fascism and the resistance movement, Italian women, etc. Each week a new decade is discussed in a historical context and supplemented with cultural artifacts that are either centered on the decade in question or produced during the period. This course is taught in English. This course counts toward the Analytical Inquiry: Society and Culture requirement.
ITAL 3350
Italy Through Cinema
About this Course
This film course enhances students' knowledge of Italian culture, politics and the economy.