The first professor, Giovanni Carsaniga, was appointed in 1982. The second, John Gatt-Rutter, took up his dutes in 1991. The Program has consistently had a high community and academic profile. Melbourne Italian community and Italian diplomatic authorities. Various staff members give public lectures, participate in initiatives of the Italian Cultural Institute and contribute to Italian language newspapers and radio programs.
Italian language is taught at all levels.
There are first-year courses for both beginners and advanced students. Areas of teaching and research include Modern Italy, Medieval and Renaissance Literature, Italian literature and society from Unification until the present time, Translation studies . For further information consult link below to subject descriptions from the La Trobe University Handbook and individual staff profiles. Career opportunities for teachers of Italian in Victorian schools are excellent. Study Abroad La Trobe University has exchange agreements with many Italian universities and students regularly undertake study in Italy for which recognition may be granted towards their degree.