The study of Italian involves the mastery of the language and its literary and cultural expressions in fiction, non-fiction, dramatic, cinematic, and poetic texts, as well as the study of social and political institutions within the context of intellectual history. The department offers a variety of classes in Italian, as well as some courses with readings and discussion in English to satisfy diverse needs. Topics range broadly from the study of a single author to a literary genre; from current events to cinema; from gender studies to literary criticism. At USC, language study transcends textbooks and dictionaries. The USC Dornsife Language Center offers computer and media technology that help students learn more about the language and people through film, television and small-group conversation.