Monash is a leader in the studies of Italian language and culture, and is the only Australian university to have an established centre in Italy. Italian is the third-most-widely-spoken language in Australia, and is central to European history, philosophy, art and design. With expert skills in Italian, you might look to a career in translation, media, museums and galleries, or education, among other diverse areas. Our exchange programs in Prato, Florence and Bologna let you study in Italy, while gaining credit towards your degree. Start of expanded content Italian studies is a vibrant program that will develop your language skills in the four areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing. You will also learn about Italian culture, studying the country's influential literature, film, theatre, history and society. The language program has three entry points. You can start as a complete beginner or, if you have some Italian language, we'll test your level and match you with the appropriate class. Each level has a cultural component as well as a language component. Studying a language gives you more than the language. It offers you the unique opportunity to truly learn intercultural communication and to think broadly as you learn first hand about linguistic and cultural differences. It will challenge you to learn more about your own language and culture. Perhaps the most exciting part of this course is the opportunity to spend a semester, or even a whole year, studying in Italy. Immersion in a language and culture is the best way to perfect your language and intercultural skills. You can replace language units with equivalent overseas language-study units in Prato, Italy, as part of your undergraduate degree. Grants are available to second- and third-year students who intend to study in Italy.