The B.A. major in Italian fosters proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in Italian, and explores the literature and culture of Italy. In addition, the Italian program offers basic courses in linguistics to discover the structure and development of the language. Major requirements focus on developing a solid mastery of the four basic language skills (reading, writing, speaking, and aural comprehension) and on providing an overview of Italian literature and civilization. In-depth study can be pursued through individual readings and our variety of 400-level literature courses, with topics ranging from Boccaccio’s Decameron to the Mafia in Italian cinema. Our overseas summer program in Florence and a semester and year-long study abroad programs in Bologna offer great opportunities to majors for immersive learning.