Italian Language and Literature

The Bachelor’s degree in Italian Language and Literature at the University of Geneva offers students an in-depth exploration of the Italian language, its rich literary traditions, and cultural heritage. This comprehensive program is designed for students who are passionate about Italian linguistics, literature, and cultural studies, providing a solid foundation for further academic pursuits or careers in areas such as education, translation, cultural management, or international relations. Throughout the course, students develop advanced language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension, ensuring they are well-equipped to engage with complex texts and conversations in Italian. The program emphasizes the historical development of Italian language and literature, from medieval poetry and Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works, fostering an appreciation for the evolution of Italian cultural expressions over time. In addition to linguistic proficiency, students engage with key literary movements, critical theories, and thematic analyses, cultivating analytical and interpretative abilities essential for academic research and professional applications. The curriculum also incorporates cultural studies, exploring Italy's history, art, cinema, and societal issues, offering a multidisciplinary perspective that enriches students’ understanding of Italian identity. Students benefit from the university’s renowned faculty, who are active researchers and experts in their fields, facilitating an engaging learning environment that encourages critical thinking and scholarly inquiry. The program may include opportunities for study abroad, internships, and participation in cultural events, enhancing practical experience and intercultural competence. Graduates of the Italian Language and Literature Bachelor’s program are well-prepared to pursue postgraduate studies or enter professional fields where Italian language skills and cultural knowledge are valuable. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their academic experience according to their interests and career aspirations, supported by dedicated academic advising and resources. Overall, this degree provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Italian language and culture, fostering skills and knowledge that open doors to diverse academic, cultural, and professional pathways.

The Bachelor's Degree in Italian Language and Literature at the University of Geneva offers students an in-depth exploration of Italy's rich linguistic and literary heritage. The program is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of Italian language, from its historical development to contemporary usage, as well as a thorough analysis of its literary traditions spanning from the Middle Ages to the modern era. Students will engage with a wide array of texts, authors, and genres, gaining critical skills in literary analysis, interpretation, and contextual understanding.

Throughout the program, students will study Italian linguistics, grammar, and phonetics to enhance their language proficiency and fluency. Courses in Italian literature will cover major periods and movements, including the Renaissance, Baroque, Enlightenment, Romanticism, and Modernism, providing a chronological framework for understanding cultural and artistic developments. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to examine historical, philosophical, and cultural contexts that have shaped Italian literature and language.

In addition to language and literature courses, the program includes modules in cultural studies, history, and translation, offering a well-rounded educational experience. Students will have opportunities to participate in seminars and workshops led by scholars and practitioners, fostering critical thinking and research skills. Practical training in translation and interpretation prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy, publishing, education, and cultural management.

The degree program also promotes active engagement with Italian-speaking communities and institutions, through internships, study abroad programs, and collaborative projects. This international exposure enriches students' linguistic competence and cultural awareness, preparing them for global careers related to Italy and the Italian language. The program culminates in a final thesis where students demonstrate their ability to undertake independent research and contribute original insights into Italian language and literature.

Graduates of this program will have a solid foundation for advanced studies, including master's and doctoral programs, or entry into professional fields such as education, translation, publishing, cultural diplomacy, and tourism. The University of Geneva's comprehensive curriculum ensures that students not only acquire linguistic and literary expertise but also develop critical, intercultural, and research competencies essential for today's interconnected world.

Program requirements:
Applicants must hold a secondary school leaving certificate comparable to the Swiss Matura or an equivalent qualification recognized by the University of Geneva. Prior to admission, candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in Italian language skills, typically through standardized language tests such as the CILS, CELI, or similar recognized examinations, with a minimum level of B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Undergraduate applicants should have a strong background in humanities or related fields; however, specific prerequisites for the Italian Language and Literature program are not mandated beyond general university entrance requirements.
Students are encouraged to submit a motivation letter explaining their interest in Italian language and literature to facilitate the selection process. Additionally, applicants may be required to attend an interview or provide a writing sample that showcases their analytical and language skills, depending on the admission cycle.
Financial documentation demonstrating the ability to support oneself during studies might be required for international students, according to Swiss immigration regulations.
There are no specific mandatory prerequisite courses for enrollment, but a prior interest or background in Italian culture, literature, or language studies can be beneficial. The program emphasizes language proficiency, literary analysis, and cultural understanding, so applicants should be prepared to engage with a broad spectrum of texts and linguistic skills.
The program also involves participation in seminars and courses that may require active discussion, presentation, and written work, making strong communication skills advantageous.
Applicants should check the latest admission guidelines from the University of Geneva to ensure compliance with any updates or specific criteria for the academic year they wish to enroll.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The Bachelor’s degree in Italian Language and Literature at the University of Geneva offers students an in-depth study of the Italian language, its literature, and cultural context. This program is designed to develop advanced linguistic skills, critical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of Italian cultural history from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era. Students engage with a wide range of literary texts, including poetry, prose, and drama, to analyze themes, stylistic devices, and historical significance. The curriculum emphasizes linguistic proficiency, literary analysis, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in translation, teaching, research, or cultural management. The program typically comprises coursework in Italian grammar, phonetics, syntax, and semantics, along with specialized modules in Italian literature, history, and civilization. Students also have opportunities for cultural exchanges, internships, and research projects to deepen their practical skills and professional experience. The university promotes a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to explore intersections with philosophy, history, and arts, thereby fostering a well-rounded understanding of Italy’s rich cultural heritage. Graduates from this program often pursue further studies or begin careers in academia, publishing, journalism, or diplomatic services related to Italian-speaking regions. The program is offered in English and Italian, reflecting the university’s commitment to linguistic diversity and internationalization. Its faculty includes distinguished scholars with expertise in Italian language and literature, ensuring a high quality of education and research. Overall, the program aims to produce graduates who are proficient in Italian, knowledgeable about Italy’s cultural and linguistic evolution, and capable of contributing meaningfully to fields requiring expertise in Italian language and literature.