The Italian program seeks to prepare students to understand, appreciate and use professionally the language, literature, and culture of Italy, through the achievement of an accurate reading knowledge, adequate aural comprehension, and conversational proficiency. Upon completion of the basic courses, students are expected to have a thorough, practical command of the language they have studied, including an ability to understand more fully the culture or cultures of which that language is a reflection. Elective courses consist of both linguistic and literary studies of a more advanced and specialized nature. In all courses, correlation with other departments of the College is encouraged whenever students’ use of their language training can be made effective in their field of specialization. Students who have had less than one and one-half years of high school Italian normally begin with course 111; those entering with two years normally begin with course 112; those presenting three years usually begin with course 203; and those presenting four years normally begin with course 204. Native speakers should consult the Chair or a department representative for their correct placement.<br>