UWA Handbook 2023

Major Overview

Description

Italian Studies involves the study of the Italian language as well as its culture. As a language, Italian is rewarding to study—opening up the riches of Italy's cultural past and the fascination of its dynamic present. It is the most widely spoken language in Australia after English because of the ongoing migrant, intellectual, cultural and commercial links between Australia and Italy. The Italian Studies major teaches you high levels of competency in speaking, writing, listening and reading. It also offers a wide perspective on Italian culture, considering not only the culture and history of Italy itself but also Italian-speaking communities around the world including Australia. We offer this major at all levels to challenge and engage you throughout your studies—from beginners through to native speakers. You will also be encouraged to enhance your educational experience by participating in exchange programs in Italy at approved universities such as Siena, Milan or Perugia.

Admission to this major requires a pass in WACE Italian: ITA2A/2B or higher. Students assessed by the discipline as near native speakers are not suitable for this major and must complete the ITLNA Italian Studies major.

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) show competence in the Italian language in the four macroskills of language acquisition—reading, writing, listening and speaking—rated according to the Common European Framework for Languages; (2) interact confidently and successfully in situations involving Italian cultural conventions; (3) interpret Italian language texts—written, audio, visual—in the light of Italian culture and society; and (4) move with accuracy and skill between the English and Italian languages and cultures.

Broadening guidelines

All students studying towards a Bachelor's Degree at UWA are required to Broaden their studies by completing a minimum of four units (24 points) of study outside their degree specific major. Broadening is your opportunity to explore other areas of interest, investigate new disciplines and knowledge paradigms and to shape your degree to suit your own aspirations and interests. Many of you will be able to undertake more than this minimum amount of broadening study and we encourage you to do so if this suits your aspirations. Over the next few months you will find here some broadening suggestions related to your degree-specific major. While we know that many students value guidance of this sort, these are only suggestions and students should not lose sight of the opportunity to explore that is afforded by your Broadening Choices. Advice can also be sought from your Allocated Student Advising Office.

Prerequisites

Admission to this major requires a pass in WACE Italian: ITA2A/2B or higher.

Incompatibilities

Students assessed by the discipline as near native speakers are not suitable for this major and must enrol in the ITLNA Italian Studies major.

Courses

ITLNI Italian Studies can be taken as a degree-specific major in the following degree courses:

• BP001 Bachelor of Arts
• BH005 Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)

Units