About

Studying in our program means engaging in a dialogue with one of the most iconic cultures in the Western World.

Our students are guided through this journey by a dynamic and dedicated faculty, whose expertise covers all of the major areas of Italian culture, from language acquisition to literary studies from the Middle Ages to contemporary times, to film and cultural studies. Our courses introduce students to topics that are engaging and intellectually stimulating, that broaden their cultural perspectives, and sharpen their thinking skills, preparing them for the challenges they will face ahead as citizens of the world.

Our students are strongly encouraged to take full advantage of three UMass approved programs abroad: the Siena Spring Semester Abroad, the Bologna-Forlì Exchange Program, and the Rome Critical Studies on Food in Italy Summer Program. These programs have been specifically designed to perfectly integrate with our on-campus curriculum. Each program offers a different set of learning experiences, for students of all academic backgrounds and at any stage of their degree.

Even on campus, our students interested in a full-immersion experience can join the Thatcher House residency program. Those who want to continue to work and learn in Italy after UMass can take advantage of the Lombardia Internship program and spend up to eight months in the northern region surrounding Milan as paid English TAs in local high schools.