Why Study Italian at Iowa?

We invite you to learn Italian, the gateway to one of the world’s richest cultures and largest economies. Whether you are interested in Italian for cultural reasons, for travel and study plans in Italy, or to enhance your competitiveness in today’s marketplace, the major in Italian at the UI offers you ample opportunities for growth in the language and for increased cultural fluency through a combination of dynamic course offerings and extracurricular activities. A background in Italian is helpful for students planning careers in international business, tourism, and teaching, as well as for opera singers, musicians, art and art history majors, and for those who study architecture, fashion, and design. Students can practice their Italian at Tavola Italiana conversation hour!

Made in Italy Skyline mirror

Italian Courses

Browse available language and culture courses available for students.

Browse Courses
Two masked Masquerade participants of Carneval in Venice.

Cultural Activities and Events

Find celebrations, activities, exhibitions, and other events to connect with and enhance social development with members of the community.

Explore Events
A loaded platter of antipasto.

Language and Culture Resources

As a means of communicating values, beliefs and customs, language has an important social function and fosters feelings of group identity and solidarity. It is the means by which culture and its traditions and shared values may be conveyed and preserved.

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An aerial photo of Florence, Italy at sunset.

Study Abroad

The program encourages students to study abroad to develop their linguistic and intercultural competencies. The University has several opportunities to select from.

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Students outside the Colosseum in Rome.

Student and Alumni Voices

Hear testimonials directly from the students and alumni of the program.

Testimonials

Faculty Specializing in this Area

Cinzia Blum, Ph.D.

Professor Emeritus

Katja Liimatta, Ph.D.

Lecturer

Irene Lottini, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Instruction
Director of Italian Studies

Claudia Sartini-Rideout, Ph.D.

Lecturer