Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
Learning Italian goes beyond language acquisition—it's an exploration of a vibrant literary tradition and multifaceted culture that has profoundly shaped Western civilization. For Canadians, Italy's influence holds particular importance: the significant Italian immigrant population has transformed aspects of our daily life while reinforcing historical cultural ties, thereby broadening what it means to be Canadian. Italian studies complement other modern languages, literature programs, and disciplines like European Studies, Literary Studies, and Medieval/Renaissance Studies, though opportunities extend far beyond these combinations. The department offers Specialist, Major, and Minor programs in Italian Studies, with courses designed for both beginners and those with prior Italian knowledge. All language classes incorporate speaking practice. Advanced students may bypass first-year language requirements (consult the Undergraduate Coordinator). Upper-year students can enroll in 300 and 400-level courses covering diverse topics including language, literature, linguistics, culture, and film. English-taught courses on Italian literature, culture, and cinema require no language prerequisite. Through Woodsworth College, students can study at Italy's University of Siena during summer months, with various bursaries available. Third-year students may apply for a full academic year in Italy via the Study Abroad Program coordinated with the Centre for International Experience.
Students from different countries should have qualifications equivalent to Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Six 4U/M courses, including:
English Language Requirements
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): The minimum requirement is an overall band of 6.5, with no band below 6.0.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): The minimum scores required for the different TOEFL tests are:
Internet-based Test:
Minimum Requirement: total score of 100 + 22 on Writing
Discretionary Range: total score 89-99 + 22 on Writing
Cambridge Assessment English C1: Advanced or C2: Proficiency: A minimum overall score of 180, with at least 170 in each component.
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): The minimum score required to meet our English facility requirement is an overall score of 70 and no part below 60.
Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST): The minimum requirement is a total score of 4.5, and no part below 4.