Students may take courses in Italian for personal interest or in relation to a degree program in such fields as art, business, literature, history, music and philosophy. We also offer an interdisciplinary minor (see below) and a contract major in Italian Studies. Contact the program coordinator for more information:

Dr. Elena Festa
Office: Old Main 303B
Phone: (845) 257-3504
E-mail: festae@newpaltz.edu

Minor in Italian Studies

(18-20 credits)

The Italian Studies minor is an interdisciplinary program for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of Italy and its many contributions to western civilization. To students of Italian descent, it also serves to provide a better appreciation of themselves and their heritage. Open to students who have completed ITA201 Intermediate Italian I or reached an equivalent level of proficiency (Intermediate-Low on the ACTFL language proficiency scale), the program fosters an appreciation of Italian cultures through the study of the Italian language (on campus and through our study-abroad programs in Italy), literature and film, as well as through an emphasis on intercultural communication skills and cognate courses in the Humanities.

Prerequisite Courses (9 Credits) 1
ITA101Elementary Italian 1 3
ITA102Elementary Italian 2 3
ITA201 Intermediate Italian I 3
1

Credits for these basic language courses do not count toward the minor. Also note that students with prior training or experience in Italian may obtain waivers for one or more of these basic courses after consultation with the Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures.

Required Course (3 Credits)
ITA202Intermediate Italian 2 3
Core Electives (9-11 Credits)
Select three of the following:9-11
Italian Society in Film (in English)
Beyond The Godfather: New Perspectives on the Mafia
Italian Comp and Conver
Italian Literature in English I
Modern to Contemporary Italian Literature and Culture
Topics in Italian Cinema
Modern Italian Literature (in English)
Italian Selected Topic
Indep Study Italian
Interdisciplinary Electives (6 Credits)
Select two cognate courses taken under advisement from the Departments of Art History, English, History, Music, and Philosophy. Other departments from time to time teach courses that relate to Italian Studies. See the program coordinator.6
Total Credits18-20

Programs in Italy

In cooperation with the Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures, the Center for International Programs offers qualified students study-abroad opportunities in Italy at the University of Urbino and the Cattolica University of Milan. Please contact the Italian Studies advisor for more information.

Luigi and Anita Traverso Italian Studies Scholarship

Italian Studies minors and contract majors interested in studying abroad in Italy are encouraged to apply for the Luigi and Anita Traverso Italian Studies Scholarship. For more information, see Luigi and Anita Traverso Endowment.