Course Overview

The Italian program at Penn State offers students a comprehensive education in the Italian language, culture, and literature. Housed within the College of the Liberal Arts, the program aims to develop proficiency in Italian through immersive language instruction and cultural studies. Students explore Italy's rich history, art, and societal contributions while gaining skills in critical thinking and cross-cultural communication. Unique features include study abroad opportunities in Italy and access to cultural events and language clubs.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Italian program are equipped for diverse career paths in education, translation, international business, and cultural organizations. The program emphasizes language fluency and cultural expertise, which are highly valued in globalized industries. Many alumni pursue roles that require bilingual skills or work in fields related to Italian heritage and tourism.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program is supported by experienced faculty within the Department of Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese. While specific names are subject to change, the department is known for its dedicated professors who specialize in Italian linguistics, literature, and cultural studies, often with extensive research and publications in these areas.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Penn State offers access to language labs and cultural resource centers to enhance learning. The university maintains partnerships with institutions in Italy, facilitating study abroad programs in cities like Florence and Rome. These opportunities provide students with immersive experiences in Italian language and culture.