USD: Languages and Literatures: Italian Course Descriptions

Italian Course Descriptions

* Please read the placement policy of this department before enrolling in your first language class at USD.

Lower-Division Courses

101 First Semester Italian (3)
Essentials of Italian grammar together with stress upon pronunciation, reading, and aural comprehension. This course is open only to those who have never studied Italian, or who have not studied it in a considerable amount of time as determined by this department (see web site). (Every semester)

102 Second Semester Italian (3)
Same orientation as in Italian 101. Learning of basic grammar. Acquisition of new vocabulary consolidated through conversation, stressing not only pronunciation and aural comprehension, but also some aspects of Italian life and culture. Prerequisite: Italian 101 (at USD or another college or university) or placement exam. (Every semester)

201 Third Semester Italian (3)
The final course of the core language sequence completes the introduction of the basic structures of the language, with continuing emphasis on communicative proficiency. At this level students are encouraged to participate in community service-learning and/or cultural activities within the Italian-speaking community. This course is also offered in the summer in Perugia (see below). Prerequisite: Italian 102 (at USD or another college or university) or placement exam. (Every semester)

201 Third Semester Italian in Italy (3)
Intensive summer course in Italy conducted by a USD faculty member. Direct immersion in Italian life and culture. See course description above. The University reserves the right to cancel this course if minimum enrollment is not met or for any other reason. Prerequisite: Italian 102 (at USD or another college or university) or placement exam.

202 Fourth Semester Italian (3)
Reading of selected works by well-known contemporary Italian authors. Practice in composition and grammar for a solid base and increased fluency in the language. Prerequisite: Italian 201 (at USD or another college or university) or placement exam. (Every semester)

230 Intermediate Conversation (3)
Intensive drill in spoken Italian based on assigned topics. This course does not count toward the Italian minor, but does count as elective units toward graduation. Prerequisite: Italian 201 or 202 (at USD or another college or university).

Upper-Division Courses

301 Advanced Composition (3)
Further development of oral and writing skills. Continued study of the grammatical structure of Italian with emphasis on idiomatic expressions and syntax. Reading of modern authors to consolidate the learning of idiomatic expressions and prepare for literature classes. Prerequisite: Italian 202 (at USD or another college or university). (Every semester)

303 Introduction to Italian Civilization and Culture (3)
General study of the history, geography, and artistic contributions of Italy through texts and audio visual materials. Survey of modern life in Italy. Prerequisite: Italian 202 (at USD or another college or university).

304 Survey of Italian Literature (3)
Study of the literary history and major masterpieces of Italian literature from the Middle Ages to the present. Prerequisite: Italian 202 (at USD or another college or university).

411 Masterpieces of Italian Literature (3)
Study in depth of style and content of selected modern works. Prerequisite: Italian 301 or approval of instructor.

494 Topics in Italian Literature (3)
Study at an advanced level of major topics of Italian literature such as Medieval masterworks, Renaissance masterpieces, and Modern works, themes, and authors. When offered, selected subjects will be announced on the web ( www.sandiego.edu/search/classes/ http://www.sandiego.edu/fll ). This course may be repeated for credit when the topic changes. Prerequisite: Italian 304, 411 (at USD or another college or university).

499 Independent Study (1-3)
A program arranged between the advanced student and the instructor to provide intensive study in a particular area of interest. Extensive reading and consultation are required, as well as preparation of reports to be assigned by the instructor. A maximum of 3 units may be applied toward the minor. Prerequisite: Approval of department chair.

Study Abroad: Florence, Milan, Perugia