The department achieved outstanding results in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2008), being ranked third nationally, with 60% of its research publications assessed as 'world leading' and 'internationally excellent'. The department's research culture is distinctive for its breadth and chronological range, ranging from Dante to twenty-first century Italophone writing.

In the 2011 National Student Survey, the department achieved 85% student satisfaction, and came eighth nationally. Below are some comments from recent graduates:

"The Italian department is small but very friendly and all of the members of staff are very approachable."

"The size of the department means that the interaction between students and staff are frequent and everyone gets to know each other."

"The year abroad in the second year was vital in the development of linguistic ability and the fact that it is in the second year makes it even more beneficial. Class sizes are small and there is always plenty of time available to speak to tutors outside of normal contact hours. The department as a whole is well organized and extremely friendly."

All of the department's teaching is research-led, and it has an excellent record in Italian language teaching, both for beginners and advanced students. Modules cover areas of Italian culture and textual production from medieval and renaissance times to today.