BA in Italian Studies at Boston University

Programme overview

The major in Italian Studies features a deep engagement with the language, literatures, and cultures of Italy. It provides students all the means necessary to attain two interrelated kinds of proficiency. The first is spoken and written Italian, sufficient to live and study successfully in Italy and/or to use Italian media and research tools for careers involving Italy and Italian culture.

Faculty: College of Arts & Sciences | Study mode: full-time | Location: Boston, MA, United States

What you will study

A total of 10 courses is required for the Italian major: Three advanced language courses at the 300 level: CAS LI 306E, 310E, 312 or 313, 314, 317, among others.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

CAS LI 211 or equivalent placement test results. All BU undergraduate students, including both entering first-year and transfer students, will pursue coursework in the BU Hub, the University's general education program that is integrated into the entire undergraduate experience. BU Hub requirements can be satisfied in a number of ways, including coursework in and beyond the major as well as through cocurricular activities.

USD 73,024 a year (2026-27). Full-time undergraduate tuition for 2026/2027, stated as the standard University undergraduate tuition rate; also listed as full-time tuition $73,024 per year on the Student Financials rate page. Tuition only: excludes fees, housing, dining, books and hea Source

First-year entry is September (Fall); Early Decision is binding for September admission. Transfer entry is September or January, and some programmes do not offer January admission.

First-year Regular Decision application and CSS Profile/FAFSA are due January 5; merit scholarship applications are due December 1; the enrollment deposit is due May 1. Early Decision applications are due November 2 (notification December 14); Early Decision 2 applications are due January 5 (notification February 8). Transfer applications are due March 15 for September and November 2 for January.

Apply through the Common Application or the QuestBridge Application. The application fee is $80, paid through the Common Application (fee waivers available). BU is test optional for first-year applicants applying through fall 2028 and spring 2029; international applicants submit TOEFL iBT, IELTS or the Duolingo English Test. SAT/ACT is not required for transfer admission.

Apply through the official page: https://www.bu.edu/admissions/

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities