WHY STUDY ITALIAN?
Italian culture is comprised of thousands of years of heritage and tradition, tracing back to the Ancient Roman empire and is romanticized across the globe. UNESCO estimates that over 60% of the entire world’s art treasures are in Italy! Studying Italian can lead to a greater understanding of literature, history, art, fashion, opera, media, business, polities and the rich complexity of Italian culture [1].
According to the International Trade Administration, Italy is the eighth largest economy in the world and the third largest in the European Union with a GDP of $2.1 trillion (approx. $35,551 per capita) in 2021. Italy is the 18th largest market for U.S goods exports (approx. $21.7 billion) and the fifth largest U.S. export market in the EU, following Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and France [2]. The top industry sectors for Italian FDI (foreign direct investment) includes industrial equipment, renewable energy, food and beverages, software and IT services, metals and electronic components.
ITALIAN AT THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON
Here at the University of Akron students will learn to value the Italian language, culture, history and themselves as individuals. We offer a wide variety of courses to fit all learners. Those with previous Italian study should greatly consider taking a placement test, located on MyAkron underneath the My Experience tab.
No prior experience, no problem! Students can enroll in Beginning Italian I and continue their study through the Intermediate levels!
STUDY ABROAD IN ITALY
"Live like an Italian" will run Summer 2024 from July 12 - July 24.
Just a few steps from the Adriatic Sea, Atri is one of the most beautiful and traditional towns of the Abruzzo region of Italy, a village with rich history and vibrant, colorful culture. Located in the province of Teramo, Atri is a quiet town of about 10,600 inhabitants, bordering with well-known seaside cities, such as Roseto degli Abruzzi and Silvi Marina.
In this village of pre-Roman origin, past and present blend together in perfect harmony. Located on rolling hills 444 meters above sea level, Atri contains several beautiful monuments within its Roman walls.
Please visit our Study Abroad in Italy page for more information.