Italian

Students enrolled in the Italian program at the University of Delaware will find it to be one of the most fulfilling linguistic and cultural experiences of their academic career. A dedicated and expert faculty offer dynamic courses in language, lit​​erature, culture and civilization, film, history, politics, and current events, taught in both Italian and English. On campus and through study abroad, students will master the four language skills – listening, speaking, reading, writing – while immersing themselves in the culture of Italy.

Along with the Bachelor's Degree in Italian Studies, we offer two Master's degrees in Italian to help students prepare for a career in international business, translation, marketing, travel, education, or many other for- and non-profit fields. Choose a major or minor in Italian, or pair Italian with another field of interest for a double major – our faculty will help you map out your plan. We also offer interdisciplinary options such as the new Italian Studies and Fashion Culture minor.

Students can participate in our study abroad programs: the winter session in the medieval city of Siena, or a semester program in the capital city of Rome. On campus, the Circolo italiano club holds meetings for Italian students, offers opportunities to brush up on language skills, and hosts numerous cultural activities. Each year outstanding students in the Italian program are rewarded with induction into Gamma Kappa Alpha, the national Italian honors society, and many receive generous monetary prizes. 

Semeste​​r Program in Rome

This UD semester program is hosted by John Cabot University (JCU), an accredited, degree-granting liberal arts institution enrolling students from across the U.S. and the world. JCU's location in the quiet and non-touristy Trastevere neighborhood not far from the Vatican make it ideally situated for students wishing to live and learn amidst a unique blend of the ancient and the contemporary.

Courses are taught by JCU's approximately 100 international faculty, and use instructional methods and grading based on the U.S. system. Some courses include out-of-class experiences in Rome to take advantage of the city's historic and artistic resources. Many of these courses are taught in English. JCU offers an array of services similar to those of a U.S.-based campus including student clubs, sports activities, cultural and social events, counseling services, and a residence life staff.

Students are housed in double rooms in furnished, JCU-leased apartments with other JCU students. All apartments include a washing machine, kitchen utensils, and bedding. JCU apartments are situated amid apartments occupied by Italians, providing a perfect opportunity for meaningful contact with locals.​

Winter Pro​gram in Siena

The medieval city of Siena blends a rich cultural tradition with the ambiance of modern life. During the session, students take one language course and one culture course taught in English. Students reside either singly or in pairs in private Italian homes. Bedding and linen are provided, as well as breakfast and dinner. Students are given an allowance for lunch during the school week.

Siena's location in central Tuscany is convenient for excursions around Italy during the students' free weekends. Upon its arrival in Rome, the group spends several days touring such sites as the Coliseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican Museum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Piazza Navona. Excursions during the session may include trips to Pompeii, Naples, Caserta, Assisi, Florence, Pisa, and Venice.​​

The Italian program offers a variety of courses in language, culture, literature, and current events. The 200-level courses work on refining and deepening linguistic competency and communication skills. Activities integrate films, music, debates, periodicals, and websites. At the 300-level, students can further improve fluency, while further enhancing writing skills and exploring currents events. Survey courses explore Italy's rich literary past (ITAL310 and ITAL311) and civilization and culture (ITAL325 and ITAL326).

More language courses are offered at the 400-level (ITAL400 and ITAL401). In addition, thematic courses (ITAL355 and ITAL455) provide students with a stimulating selection of revolving topics, including Italian Cinema, Italian Women Writers, The Art of Translation, 19th and 20th Century Literature, Contemporary Italy, Love and Passion in Literature, The Child in Literature, World War II in Italian Literature and Film, Contemporary Italian Literature, and Italian Detective Fiction.

All courses above the 100-level are available for Honors credit. Many also count as Group A or Group B.

Courses Taught in English

Courses in English, found under the LLCU prefix, include Italian Women Writers, Dante, Italy in the Age of the Scientific Revolution, Italian Cinema, Contemporary Italian Literature, The Immigrant Experience, Terrorism in Italian Culture, and The Mafia.

These courses, which have no prerequisites, are offered for Honors credit; some are also offered for Second Writing Credit.​

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