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Why Study French & Italian?
The Department of French and Italian provides instruction in the languages, literatures, cinema, and cultures of France, Italy, and other areas where these languages are spoken.
We offer a wide selection of undergraduate courses, covering topics ranging from the Middle Ages to Italian-American culture and the Francophone literature of Africa, the Caribbean and the Middle East.
Our MA and PhD graduate programs in French are among the national leaders in successfully placing students in academic positions, and the highly productive research faculty provide expertise in all areas of French and Italian literature.
Featured Courses - Spring 2026
Spring 2026
TuTh 2:00-3:15PM
This course explores the cultural, economic, and environmental dimensions of the 鈥淢ade in Italy鈥 label, examining how Italy鈥檚 global reputation for excellence in food, fashion, and design is being reshaped by the imperatives of sustainability. Students will investigate how artisanal traditions, regional identities, and aesthetic innovation intersect with ecological responsibility and ethical production.听No prerequisites.
TAUGHT IN ENGLISH听
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Spring 2026
M 3:35-6:05PM
This seminar examines the theory and practice of engaged and public humanities, emphasizing collaboration with communities and publics. Ground in critical pedagogy, decolonial theory, feminist praxis, and cultural studies, it addresses topics such as activist art, anti-oppressive pedagogy, environmental justice, material culture, among others. Students will produce a public-facing project in place of a research paper. Guest speakers from campus and beyond will share insights on engaged scholarship and community-based practice.
TAUGHT IN ENGLISH
Spring 2026
MWF 1:25-2:15
W 2:30-3:20
Using theatre as a medium, this course helps students attain a higher level of proficiency in spoken and written Italian. Study of Italian theatre is integrated with acting activities and pronunciation exercises. This course culminates in the production of a play. The performance is in Italian, and the students participate in the writing of the script.听
TAUGHT IN ITALIAN