The degree offered by our department is a B.A. in Italian. To enter into the major, students must have taken ITAL 1300 or an equivalent to satisfy the prerequisite. Any student intending to major in Italian should consult the director of undergraduate studies (DUS).
The major consists of eleven (11) term courses beyond the prerequisite.
Eight (8) term courses (at least five (5) must be conducted in Italian)
- (5) Italian department courses numbered 1400 or above (including graduate courses) are required. The courses in the department must include ITAL 1400 or equivalent through placement test.
- (1) of either ITAL 1500 or 1510
- (1) survey course on Italian literature (ITAL 4162 or 4172),
- (1) course on Dante’s Divine Comedy (ITAL 1310 or equivalent).
The aim of these foundational courses is to provide students with both a broad acquaintance with the major works of Italian Studies and a more detailed knowledge of specific periods in Italian literature and media. No more than three Italian department courses taught in English may count toward the major.
Two (2) Elective Courses
In completing their programs, students are required to take two courses in other languages and literatures, history of art, history, linguistics, philosophy, or media that are related to their field of study and approved by the DUS. Any graduate course in another national literature or in linguistics may be substituted for one of these two courses.
One (1) Senior Essay ITAL 4491 Senior Essay and final meeting with faculty
During their senior year, all students majoring in Italian are required to meet with the DUS at least twice per month. In the Fall or Spring of the senior year, all majors must present a departmental essay written in Italian and completed under the direction of a faculty adviser in ITAL 4491. The essay should demonstrate careful reading and research on a topic approved by the adviser in consultation with the DUS. A recommended length for the essay is thirty pages, plus bibliography. The student and the advisor will select and invite a second faculty reader who will receive the final version of the thesis by the established deadline. While prospectus and draft deadlines are determined by the adviser, the student must submit the final version no later than ten days before the last day of classes, in the Fall or Spring. The senior requirement culminates in a meeting with department faculty to discuss the thesis and the student’s overall experience of study in the major.
Substitutions
Graduate courses in other departments may be possible, with DUS approval.