Italian Studies, Minor

No longer accepting new minors beginning in Fall 2023.

Saint Louis University's Italian studies minor is interdisciplinary/multidisciplinary in its approach to developing linguistic and cultural proficiency.

The minor, which requires at least three years of coursework in Italian language, literature and culture, prepares students for immersion and research in Italian, one of Europe's major languages.

SLU's intimate and vibrant Italian studies program highlights Italy's crucial role in developing Western civilization. Students explore Italy's ties to non-Western cultures. You will enjoy a rich and varied curriculum that draws from Italy's centuries-long contributions to literature, architecture, painting, sculpture, music, philosophy and science.

Program Highlights

  • SLU's program is the only inter/multidisciplinary Italian studies program in the greater St. Louis area.
  • SLU offers more study abroad options in Italy than any language program in the greater St. Louis area. Choose to study in Italy's capital Rome, on the beautiful Amalfi coast in Sorrento or in the medieval university city of Bologna.
  • The program places a strong emphasis on social justice, intercultural competence and global citizenship. For example, choose from courses including "Italy Beyond Borders: Social Justice in Modern Italian Culture," "Global Italy: Migration and Multiculturalism," and more.

Careers 

A minor in Italian studies can prepare students for many rewarding careers. Opportunities are rich in fields such as comparative literature, performing arts, cinema, design, politics, sports, fashion and industry. Hundreds of American companies operate in Italy. Students might pursue a career as a(n):

  • International business representative
  • International public relations professional
  • Special agent
  • Foreign service officer
  • Linguist
  • Teacher
  • Interpreter/translator

Students who begin their study of Italian at SLU above the 2010 level must complete an additional course or courses at the 4000 level to fulfill the 15 credits required for the minor. 

Required Course
ITAL 2010Intermediate Italian: Language & Culture3
Italian Studies Electives9
Select three of following upper division (3xxx or above) courses or any course with an "Italian Elective" attribute.
Written Communication in Italian I
Oral Communication in Italian I
Written Communication in Italian II
Oral Communication in Italian II
Related Studies6
Select two upper-division courses with the "Italian Related Studies" attribute.
Total Credits18

Continuation Standards

All Italian studies minor courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher in order to count for the minor and for the student to continue in the minor.