Beginners may choose between Elementary Italian (a two-semester sequence) and the Intensive Elementary course, both of which offer an introduction to the language and culture of Italy through short stories and plays, opera and popular music, film and popular culture. Students with previous language study will be placed in the appropriate course after an interview with the department chair. An oral and written exam may be used for advanced placement or to fulfill the Foreign Language Proficiency requirement. In the summer after completing Elementary Italian, students have the opportunity to participate in a program in Siena, Italy, and fulfill the requirement for Intermediate Italian.