French and Italian

Welcome to the Department of French & Italian. We offer a lively program of study that reflects the University’s commitment to excellence in interdisciplinary research and teaching at all levels. Our diverse faculty includes scholars whose work explores the intersections of race, gender, law, and religion.

More than 300 students study French and Italian at Vanderbilt every semester. Many choose to begin their language here, while others build on what they have learned in high school.  Using internet technology and interactive materials, students at all levels study language, history, civilization, film, business, and literature.

Many students choose to study abroad in France, or in Italy at the program in Siena or in Florence.