Italian

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

A concentration in Italian is not available at this time, but a minor in Italian may be received upon satisfactory completion of 18 FLI hours.

Please contact Amie Russell, Undergraduate Coordinator with questions.

Italian Instructor and Coordinator: Dr. Rosy Nigro (rgn1@msstate.edu)

Benvenuti!

Our Minor in Foreign Languages Italian consists of 18 credit hours.
Explore the required courses below to start planning your path!

ITALIAN I FLI 1113

Students will develop the ability to read, write, speak, and understand basic Italian by studying grammar principles, conversation, vocabulary, and readings. Students will enhance their awareness and understanding of the cultural context of the Italian language.

ITALIAN II FLI 1123

Course objectives are to expand, strengthen, and refine the skills acquired in previous Italian courses. To this end, oral expression, reading comprehension, and writing will be emphasized.

ITALIAN III FLI 2133

This course will expand students’ skills in Italian, focusing on speaking, understanding, reading, and writing in a cultural context.

ITALIAN IV FLI 2143

This course focuses on reviewing and expanding functional skills in Italian, including reading, writing and oral proficiency through the study of modern masterpieces of Italian literature and arts.

ADVANCED ITALIAN CONVERSATION FLI 3233

Advanced instruction in Italian with emphasis on oral and written communication skills. This course is conducted entirely in Italian and features extensive discussions of contemporary Italy and grammar review.

ITALY: CULTURE AND CONTEXTS FLI 3113

This course aims to survey the cultural continuity of the main themes of Italian history, from the medieval period to today. Taught in English. No previous knowledge of Italian language is required.

Planned Schedule for Italian courses offered at MSU, Fall 26-Fall 27

Why Study Italian Language and Culture?

Studying Italian opens the door to a rich cultural, historical, and professional world. Here are some of the most meaningful reasons students choose to learn Italian:

1. Connect with a Foundational Culture of the Western World

Italy has shaped art, music, literature, fashion, cinema, architecture, and philosophy for centuries. Studying Italian allows students to appreciate masterpieces by Dante, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and many others in their original context.

2. Enhance Travel Experiences

Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world. Knowing the language transforms travel—from simply “seeing” Italy to truly experiencing it. Students can navigate cities with confidence, interact with locals, and discover cultural nuances that tourists often miss.

3. Expand Career Opportunities

Italian is valuable in fields such as international business, design, art history, architecture, culinary arts, fashion, engineering, diplomacy, linguistics, translation, and tourism. Italy is also home to multiple global companies in luxury goods, automotive, and technology.

4. Strengthen Communication Skills

Italian is known for its clarity, structure, and musicality. Learning it helps students improve grammar awareness, vocabulary building, and overall communication—skills that transfer to other Romance languages and to English itself.

5. Celebrate Heritage and Identity

Many students in the United States study Italian to reconnect with their family roots. Learning the language creates a deeper understanding of traditions, history, and cultural values passed down through generations.

The Italian Club at MSU

At MSU, Italian courses offer an engaging environment where students explore language, history, film, contemporary culture, and more. Through the Italian Club, students become part of a welcoming community that extends beyond the classroom.