BACHELOR'S DEGREE PROGRAMS

Cultural Studies

Program Description

Cultural studies refer to the study of cultural issues and policy at varying levels from local to regional, national, and international. The benefit of undertaking cultural studies at AUF in Florence, Italy, derives from the rich diversity found in the regional differences of the Italian landscape positioned within a European framework along with Italy's cultural contributions to the international context. The studies of this program are rooted in the analysis and interpretation of culture supported by the liberal arts. Students will examine the human understanding, organization, interpretation and communication of the world. Coursework will present topics related to philosophy, literature, creative expression, society, and belief systems throughout history and how they have impacted societal issues of ethics, gender, class, and race. The aim of the program is to provide students with a solid foundation of cultural knowledge and practices, supported by skills in writing, research, and critical thinking through interdisciplinary perspectives. Coursework is supported by experiential learning methodologies that directly involve students in diverse cultural contexts and the local community.

courses that focus on the four available program concentrations:

Art History

Fine Arts

Program objectives:

Apply curriculum to a deeper understanding of cultural stratification and the co-existence, co-dependence, as well as the differences in world cultures.

Expand theory-based knowledge of cultural development and issues through its application to real-world experiences and contexts as required by comprehensive projects that employ critical research and creative expression.

Foster the development of academic identity in terms of research approaches and creative expressivity as applied to curriculum requirements.

Acquire a specialized knowledge of the complex relationships between culture and society in Italy and Europe, including a focus on the issue of cultural heritage.

Gain the ability to assess culture and multicultural societies through critical thinking.

Sharpen knowledge of how culture operates and permeates varying levels of society from a local community to a region, nation, and worldwide.

Develop awareness of the history, politics, philosophy, and sociological factors that drive and shape culture.

Develop the ability to trace and interpret cultural changes and shifts influenced by globalization, technological advances, and world politics.

Increase competency related to cultural mediation and analysis.

Outcomes:

Identification and analysis of culture and cultural issues through critical, well-structured, and creatively compelling forms of expression.

Application of cultural knowledge and competency in diverse theoretical and practical sites of learning and research.

Development and execution of a variety of projects from concept to outcome, which effectively explore and express cultural issues and debate. Projects should be able to engage different audiences and critical perspectives.

Exposure, as required by the curriculum, to diverse operators in cultural sectors including researchers, educators, artists, activists, and representatives of local organizations and institutions.

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Career opportunities: 

The program prepares students to consider career opportunities in multiple fields such as the following.

Education

International relations and government

Journalism

Library and archival sciences

Cultural institutions and organizations