Italian Studies
Learn the language. Love the culture. Live the passion.
Combine creativity, culture, and real-world relevance in a minor that’s both practical and inspiring.
Why study Italian?
Cultural significance
Italian opens the door to world-renowned art, music, film, and cuisine—offering a deeper connection to one of the most influential cultures in the world.
Global presence
Spoken in Italy, Switzerland, and communities worldwide, Italian connects you to a broad cultural and international network.
Accessible learning
A phonetic and expressive language that is approachable and enjoyable to learn, helping you build confidence quickly.
Historical influence
Explore a rich legacy that has shaped Western art, architecture, literature, and design.
Meaningful experiences
Enhance travel, cultural engagement, and personal enrichment through language.

Why SDSU?
An interdisciplinary program with cultural experiences and study abroad opportunities that build language skills and global awareness.
Study Italian alongside your major
Student Opportunities
Il Circolo italiano - Italian Club at SDSU
Nel Circolo Italiano cerchiamo di promuovere la conoscenza della cultura italiana fra gli studenti della lingua italiana a San Diego State University. Avremo guest speakers, cibo italiano autentico, informazioni su viaggi studio in Italia e l'opportunita` di migliorare il vostro italiano attraverso incontri con persone della communita` italiana di San Diego. Venite al nostro circolo ad apprezzare la cultura italiana con noi!!! A presto!
The "Circolo Italiano" tries to promote a better understanding of Italian culture to students of the Italian language at San Diego State University. We will have guest speakers, authentic Italian food, information on study abroad programs in Italy, and the chance to improve your Italian speaking skills by meeting with local San Diegans who enjoy studying Italian as well! Feel free to come to our Circolo and enjoy the Italian culture with us! See you soon!
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Facebook (@CircoloItalianoSDSU) | Instagram (@CircoloitalianoSDSU)
GKA - Gamma Kappa Alpha - National Italian Honor Society
SDSU has a Gamma Kappa Alpha National Italian Honor Society Chapter and a Gamma Kappa Alpha Award Scholarship. The initials signify "Knowledge and Virtue." The Gamma Kappa Alpha acknowledges superior scholastic performance in the field of Italian language, literature and culture, and is the only National Italian Honor Society in the United States and Canada. The Society encourages college students to acquire a greater interest in, and a deeper understanding of, Italian culture, art and history. The organization recognizes outstanding undergraduate scholarship in the field of Italian by awarding annually the Gamma Kappa Alpha Award for Scholarship.
Any senior or junior with at least a "B" average in Italian is eligible. Students must have taken at least five courses in Italian total, including two at SDSU, and one of which must be at the advanced level. Students must also be in the upper 35% of their class. New members are inducted in the spring semester and receive a certificate of recognition and a special honors cord to be worn at graduation.
All students who think they might qualify are highly encouraged to contact the chapter academic advisor, Professor Clarissa Clò, for more information.
Advising
Clarissa Clò, Program Director/Advisor
Office: SH 226C
Email: [email protected]
Important Links
Class Schedule | SDSU Catalog | Academic Calendar | Canvas


