Italian

Program Description:

The Italian Studies program at Dartmouth College offers an in-depth exploration of Italy's rich cultural, historical, linguistic, and literary heritage. Designed for students with a passion for Italian language and culture, the program provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines language proficiency with interdisciplinary studies in art, history, philosophy, and literature. Students will develop advanced language skills through intensive coursework and gain a deep understanding of Italy's diverse regional traditions and contemporary societal issues. The program emphasizes active engagement with primary texts, cultural artifacts, and current debates within Italian society, fostering critical thinking and analytical abilities. Participants have opportunities to participate in study-abroad programs in Italy, immersing themselves in authentic cultural experiences and enhancing their linguistic competence. Faculty members are distinguished scholars dedicated to mentoring students and encouraging original research. The program also offers tailored electives to allow students to pursue specific interests such as Medieval and Renaissance Studies, Modern Italian Literature, or Cinema and Visual Culture. Graduates of the Italian Studies program are well-equipped for careers in education, international relations, translation, tourism, arts and cultural management, and more. With a strong foundation in both language and cultural understanding, students graduate ready to engage with Italy on a professional or personal level, or to continue their academic pursuits in graduate programs. The program's multidimensional approach ensures a well-rounded education that celebrates Italy's enduring influence and its vital role in global history, art, and culture.

Major in Italian. Prerequisite for the major: ITAL 8 (Exploring Italian Culture and Language) or ITAL 9 (Italian Culture).    

All students wishing to major in Italian must have completed ITAL 8 through the L.S.A +. program in Rome or ITAL 9 on campus. An Italian major consists of eight courses numbered ITAL 10 (Introduction to Italian Literature: Masterworks and Great Issues) or above, at least five of which must be numbered above ITAL 15. The Honors major consists of nine courses, of which one must be ITAL 89 (the thesis). Two of the three courses offered on the Italian L.S.A.+ (ITAL  10 and ITAL 12 (Advanced Writing and Speaking in Italian)) may be counted toward the major and the Honors major. The major must include ITAL 10; at least two courses from the pre-1800 period (ITAL 21 (Early Italian Literature and Culture), ITAL 22 (Humanism and Renaissance), ITAL 23 (Seventeenth and Eighteenth-Century Italian Literature and Culture), ITAL 33, ITAL 34); and at least two courses from the post-1800 period (ITAL 15 (Italian Cinema), ITAL 24 (Nineteenth-Century Italian Literature and Culture), ITAL 25 (Twentieth and Twenty-first Century Italian Literature and Culture), ITAL 35). With the approval of the Italian Major Advisor, ITAL 10 may be counted for credit toward the major twice, provided the course topics are different. During their senior year, as their culminating activity, Italian majors must take either ITAL 88: Senior Independent Reading and Research or an upper-level Italian course (numbered ITAL 21 or above). Students taking an upper-level Italian course as their culminating activity are required to supplement the regular reading with extra materials chosen in consultation with the instructor, and to write a research or critical paper of at least twenty pages. All culminating experiences must include a public presentation. The major card must be approved by the Italian Major Advisor.                                         

Minor in Italian. Prerequisite for the minor: ITAL 8 or ITAL 9.

All students wishing to minor in Italian must have completed ITAL 8 through the L.S.A + program in Rome or ITAL 9 on campus. An Italian minor consists of six courses numbered ITAL 10 or above, at least three of which must be numbered above ITAL 15. With the approval of the Italian Minor Advisor, ITAL 10 may be counted for credit toward the minor twice, provided the course topics are different. Two of the Italian L.S.A.+ courses (ITAL 10 and ITAL 12) may count toward the minor. The minor must include ITAL 10, at least one course from the pre-1800 period, and at least one course from the post-1800 period.

Program requirements for the Italian Studies major at Dartmouth College include a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop proficiency in Italian language, literature, and culture. Students are expected to complete a minimum of eight courses in the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures, with at least four at the 30 level or above, emphasizing advanced language skills, literary analysis, and cultural understanding. Proficiency in written and spoken Italian is a core component, achieved through courses such as Intermediate and Advanced Italian language, as well as conversation practice sections.

In addition to language courses, students must engage with courses in Italian literature, history, and cultural studies, which may include topics like Italian cinema, history of Italy, and contemporary Italian society. These courses aim to foster critical thinking and expand knowledge of Italy's historical and cultural heritage. Study abroad programs in Italy are highly encouraged, allowing students to immerse themselves in Italian language and culture, which counts toward their major requirements.

Capstone projects or senior thesis options are available for students wishing to demonstrate advanced research skills in Italian studies. Students are also encouraged to take interdisciplinary courses related to art, music, and politics to enrich their understanding of Italy's diverse cultural landscape. Regular advisement meetings ensure students meet degree requirements and tailor their coursework to their academic and career interests. The program emphasizes building multilingual competency, cultural literacy, and research abilities, preparing graduates for careers in education, diplomacy, international business, or further graduate studies in Italian language and literature.

Funding options for the degree programmes at Dartmouth College are diverse and designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Financial aid primarily consists of need-based grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities, which aim to make education accessible and affordable for all admitted students. The college offers a comprehensive financial aid program that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, ensuring that students from various economic backgrounds can pursue their studies without undue hardship. Eligibility for financial aid is determined through a thorough analysis of family income, assets, and other relevant financial information, following federal and institutional guidelines.

Dartmouth College's endowment provides substantial resources dedicated to student support, enabling the institution to maintain a robust financial aid program. Students are encouraged to apply for federal and state grants, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of attendance. In addition, Dartmouth offers merit-based scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement, further supplementing financial aid packages. Many students also participate in work-study programs, allowing them to earn money on campus to offset expenses such as housing, books, and personal costs.

Beyond traditional aid, Dartmouth's Financial Access Initiative aims to broaden access and simplify the application process by providing dedicated counseling and support services. The college actively promotes transparency in its financial aid policies, enabling prospective students to better understand their potential funding options early in the application process. Furthermore, there are various loan options available for students who require additional funding, with flexible repayment terms designed to minimize financial burden after graduation. Overall, Dartmouth College strives to create an inclusive educational environment supported by comprehensive financing options that enable students to focus on their academic and personal growth without the concern of unsustainable debt.

The Italian Studies program at Dartmouth College offers students an immersive exploration of Italian language, literature, culture, history, and arts. This interdisciplinary program is designed to develop proficiency in Italian through advanced language coursework, allowing students to read, write, and speak confidently in Italian. In addition to language skills, students engage deeply with Italy's rich cultural heritage, including its literary traditions, historical developments, and artistic achievements. The curriculum typically includes courses on Italian literature from the medieval period to modern times, the history of Italy from ancient to contemporary eras, and studies in Italian cinema, art, and philosophy. Students also have opportunities for cultural immersion through study abroad programs in Italy, which complement academic learning with firsthand experiences of Italian society and culture. The program aims to prepare students for careers in international relations, translation, cultural management, education, or further graduate study in Italian or Italian studies. Requirements usually include language proficiency exams, core courses in Italian literature and culture, and electives covering specialized topics such as Renaissance art or contemporary Italian politics. Faculty members are often experts in their fields, providing students with mentorship and guidance tailored to their academic and career interests. Independent research projects, seminars, and language immersion programs further enhance the educational experience. Graduates of the program enjoy a strong foundation in Italian language and culture, equipping them for diverse professional paths or advanced academic pursuits. Overall, the Italian Studies program at Dartmouth fosters a comprehensive understanding of Italy’s historical and contemporary significance within global contexts, encouraging critical thinking and intercultural competence.