The Italian Studies program at the University of Duke offers students an in-depth and interdisciplinary exploration of Italian language, literature, culture, and society. Spanning four years, the program is designed to provide both linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy, enabling students to engage critically with Italy’s historical and contemporary contributions to art, philosophy, politics, and global thought. Courses emphasize close reading, analytical writing, and immersive language acquisition, while also incorporating visual arts, cinema, and modern media to examine Italy’s evolving cultural landscape. Students build a solid foundation in grammar and communication while developing the tools to interpret texts, traditions, and cultural practices in their broader historical contexts.
The program fosters intellectual curiosity and cross-cultural awareness through a curriculum that integrates classroom instruction with experiential learning. Students are encouraged to participate in study abroad programs, cultural immersion experiences, and interdisciplinary coursework that connects Italian studies to fields such as history, comparative literature, and European studies. Faculty mentorship and seminar-style classes promote active engagement, debate, and research. With a strong emphasis on critical interpretation and cultural fluency, the program prepares students to navigate diverse global environments and to appreciate the richness of Italian heritage in relation to broader humanistic inquiry.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Italian Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Italian studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Language and Culture
• Elementary Italian I & II
• Introduction to Italian Culture
• Fundamentals of Grammar and Composition
• Reading Italian Texts
Year 2 – Intermediate Study and Literary Themes
• Intermediate Italian I & II
• Italian Literature: Medieval to Modern
• Writing and Expression in Italian
• Film and Society in Italy
Year 3 – Historical and Cultural Perspectives
• The Renaissance and Its Legacy
• Modern Italian History
• Italian Theater and Performance
• Topics in Italian Art and Architecture
Year 4 – Advanced Research and Specialization
• Seminar in Italian Literary Studies
• Advanced Translation and Interpretation
• Independent Research or Thesis
• Contemporary Issues in Italian Culture
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Italian Studies program are well-equipped to enter careers that require cultural competency, language proficiency, and strong communication skills. Many pursue opportunities in international relations, translation and interpretation, education, and cultural institutions, where their understanding of Italian heritage adds value in multilingual and multicultural contexts. Others find roles in publishing, journalism, tourism, or the arts, contributing to global dialogues with a nuanced appreciation for literature and culture. The program also serves as strong preparation for graduate study in languages, comparative literature, art history, or European studies. With skills in textual analysis, research, and language, students are prepared to engage thoughtfully in both academic and professional environments that value cross-cultural dialogue and humanistic inquiry.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a distinctive opportunity to engage deeply with one of Europe’s most influential cultures through an interdisciplinary lens that values language, literature, history, and the arts. Students not only learn to speak and write in Italian but also to interpret cultural narratives and historical developments with sophistication. The curriculum combines rigorous language instruction with dynamic explorations of Italy’s intellectual and artistic heritage, encouraging students to think critically and globally. Through study abroad, independent research, and close collaboration with faculty, learners develop both academic depth and personal confidence. The program’s dedication to blending linguistic mastery with cultural insight ensures that graduates emerge not only as capable communicators, but also as reflective and culturally attuned global citizens.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
