Italian Studies - major

See detailed major & minor requirements

Whether you intend to continue a language you studied in high school or wish to explore a new one, an online placement test is required to enroll in language courses. Your exam score and academic record will inform the final placement decision. We recommend that all students with past language experience take the placement test as early as possible. First-year students will be automatically directed to the exam during course registration. Sophomores, juniors and seniors should contact the academic department prior to course registration.

Language placement exam

Study Abroad

Italian studies majors are encouraged to study abroad in a Bucknell-approved program. Our students refine their language skills and delve into Italian culture through a full immersion experience in Bologna, Milan, Padova, Rome or Florence.

Student Story

The ability to do important research from her first year was one of the main reasons Giuliana Ferrara '22 chose Bucknell. Now the double major in Italian studies and international relations has channeled her passion for global education into a four-year research project as a Presidential Fellow.

In just her first two years, Giuliana developed and administered two University-wide surveys that measure how studying a second language sharpens students' cognitive skills. She presented her findings at the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages convention in Washington, D.C., alongside her faculty advisers.

"When you learn a second language, it opens doors to understanding other cultures better," she says. "It’s important that students who have this interest can continue to explore it."

The Bucknell Italian Club is a student run organization that promotes the deeper understanding of culture, history and society of Italy throughout the university community. The Italian studies community extends far beyond the classroom with events open to the entire Bucknell and Lewisburg communities. Past events have included:

Keep up with our events throughout the year

Any Bucknell student is eligible for membership. No prior knowledge of the Italian language is necessary.

For more information please contact Lisa Perrone

No matter the major or the career path, students in the Italian Studies department have taken opportunities and jobs across the globe in a wide variety of industries. The one thing they all have in common is the experience of the Italian language and culture.

Some of our recent graduates have taken jobs at CVS Health, Accenture Federal Services and Universal McCann. While others have accepted opportunities through the SITE (Study Intercultural Training Experience) Program, where they will teach English in Italian schools while immersing themselves in the illustrious Italian culture.

Studying a foreign language, culture and communication strategy will help you participate in the global community, develop insight into your own language and culture and enhance your job marketability in any career. So, where will Italian take you?

172 Coleman Hall