Northwestern University’s Italian program provides a rigorous and immersive education in the Italian language, literature, and culture. Over four years, students not only develop fluency in Italian, but also explore Italy’s profound contributions to art, history, philosophy, and political thought. The curriculum is designed to build linguistic competence alongside cultural literacy, allowing students to engage deeply with topics such as the Renaissance, modern cinema, and contemporary Italian society. Courses balance language acquisition with critical reading and writing, ensuring students can analyze texts and express complex ideas in both Italian and English.
The program also emphasizes experiential learning, offering opportunities for study abroad in Italian-speaking regions and internships with cultural institutions. Faculty members support students in developing independent research and interdisciplinary exploration, bridging Italian studies with areas like art history, international studies, and comparative literature. Whether interpreting Dante’s poetry or examining postwar Italian politics, students are encouraged to think critically and connect historical knowledge with current global issues. This approach cultivates versatile graduates prepared for dynamic careers and lifelong engagement with Italian culture.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Italian
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Language Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Language Foundations and Introduction
• Elementary Italian I
• Elementary Italian II
• Introduction to Italian Culture
• Writing and Speaking in Italian
Year 2 – Intermediate Language and Cultural Themes
• Intermediate Italian I
• Intermediate Italian II
• Italian Society through Film
• Grammar and Composition
Year 3 – Advanced Studies and Literary Traditions
• Advanced Conversation and Phonetics
• Italian Renaissance Literature
• Modern Italian Fiction
• Study Abroad or Language Immersion
Year 4 – Specialization and Research
• Seminar on Contemporary Italy
• Independent Project or Thesis
• Italian Translation and Interpretation
• Italy and the European Union
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Italian program are well-equipped for careers that demand multilingual communication, cultural sensitivity, and strong analytical skills. Common paths include international relations, education, translation, and publishing, with many working as language instructors, cultural liaisons, writers, or policy analysts. The program also opens doors in arts administration, tourism, global marketing, and nonprofits that operate in European or Mediterranean contexts. Students interested in further study often pursue graduate programs in literature, linguistics, law, diplomacy, or European studies. With their global outlook and linguistic fluency, Italian majors can thrive in diverse and impactful roles across sectors.
Why Choose This Program
The Italian program at Northwestern is ideal for students seeking a humanities-rich education grounded in language and cultural depth. It combines intensive language instruction with critical engagement across literature, film, and history, fostering both intellectual curiosity and practical communication skills. With access to expert faculty, individualized mentoring, and study abroad options, students experience Italian culture firsthand and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. This program cultivates a global mindset and empowers students to navigate complex intercultural environments with confidence and insight, preparing them for careers and endeavors that demand both empathy and intellectual agility.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
