University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Italian Studies major combines progressive language learning with courses in literature, film, history, culture and linguistics. You will typically begin or continue structured language units that build listening, speaking, reading and writing skills from beginner to advanced levels, and then move on to specialised subjects that explore Italian literature, contemporary Italian society, cinema, the history of Italy and the Italian diaspora.

• Core language units – structured sequence from beginner to advanced Italian, focusing on communicative competence, grammar and vocabulary, and practical conversation.
• Literature and culture – study of Italian literary periods, key authors and movements, as well as contemporary cultural debates and media.
• Film and media – analysis of Italian cinema, documentary and visual culture, and their social and political contexts.
• History and society – courses on modern and medieval Italian history, politics, and the role of Italy in Europe and the Mediterranean.
• Language sciences and translation – applied linguistics, translation and interpreting practice, and comparative grammar for those interested in professional language work.
• Capstone and research options – an advanced project or honours pathway (where available) to develop independent research skills in a topic of Italian Studies.

The BA structure allows flexibility: you can take Italian as a single honours major, combine it with other majors such as International Relations, Linguistics, History, Media or Business, and pursue exchange or study-abroad opportunities with partner institutions in Italy to deepen language immersion.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts typically requires a successful secondary school qualification (such as a state senior secondary certificate) with a competitive selection rank, or equivalent tertiary qualifications. The University also accepts mature-age applicants and alternative pathways such as recognised diplomas or foundation programs.

• Academic background – prior study in languages, humanities or social sciences is advantageous but not always required; beginners can often commence from introductory language levels.
• English language proficiency – applicants whose prior studies were not in English will need to demonstrate proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications.
• Other pathways – admissions may consider work experience, prior tertiary study, or bridging programs for non-traditional applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates with a major in Italian Studies leave with strong language skills, cultural literacy and analytical abilities valued in many sectors. Career paths commonly pursued by alumni include:

• Translation and interpreting for business, legal, medical and community settings.
• Teaching Italian at secondary or tertiary levels, or language tuition and curriculum development.
• International relations, diplomacy and government roles involving Italy or Italian-speaking regions.
• Tourism, hospitality and cultural heritage management, including museums and arts organisations.
• Journalism, publishing, media and communications with an international focus.
• Business roles in import/export, international trade, marketing and client liaison where Italian language skills provide a competitive advantage.
• Further study in areas such as postgraduate language studies, translation, cultural studies or law.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers Italian Studies within a broad, research-active humanities faculty that emphasises small-group teaching and personalised academic support. You will be taught by staff with expertise in Italian language, literature and cultural studies and benefit from opportunities to undertake language immersion through approved exchange programs and industry placements.

• Integrated learning – courses balance practical language training with cultural and historical study to produce graduates who are both fluent and culturally informed.
• Study-abroad and exchange – the university facilitates mobility options that allow students to study at partner universities in Italy to accelerate language fluency and cultural understanding.
• Extra-curricular opportunities – student clubs, language conversation groups and cultural events provide informal practice and networking with peers and local Italian communities.
• Pathways to honours and research – options to progress to an honours year or postgraduate study, supported by supervisors active in Italian and comparative humanities research.

Overall, the program is suited to students seeking a rigorous language degree that opens pathways into international careers, arts and cultural sectors, public service and further academic study.