Italica features original scholarly articles on all aspects of Italian language, literature, and culture as well as studies on language pedagogy. Interdisciplinary and comparative studies related to Italian literary and intellectual culture are also accepted. The journal serves members of the AATI and other readers interested in things Italian through the publication of reviews, announcements, and bibliographies. Its "Bibliography of Italian Studies in America" includes books, articles, and reviews published by scholars residing in North America. Since 1983 the frequency of the rubric, that now requires over fifty pages of print, had been semi-annual.

The American Association of Teachers of Italian was founded in 1923 to promote the study of Italian language, literature, and culture in schools of all levels in North America. At present it has approximately 1500 members worldwide. The Association sponsors seminar and workshops in the broad area of Italian studies at national and regional conferences, and holds annual meetings both in North America and Italy. The AATI publishes the quarterly journal Italica and a twice-yearly newsletter.