Italian BA
Study of the Italian language, culture, history, and society, developing advanced language skills alongside a deep understanding of Italy’s cultural and global influence.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Want to learn Italian
Are interested in culture and travel
Enjoy languages and communication
Want an international career
Are passionate about culture
Popular Career Fields
Education
International Trade & Commerce
Government & Public Sector
Hospitality & Tourism
Your Personality Might Be:
Language lover
International Trade & Commerce
Linguistically skilled
Italian passion
What is it?
What is an Italian degree?
An Italian degree combines language learning with the study of Italian culture, history, politics, film, literature, and society.
You’ll develop strong spoken and written Italian skills while exploring Italy’s role in Europe and the wider world, from the Renaissance to contemporary Italy.
Most degrees allow students to study Italian from beginner or advanced level, depending on prior experience, and many include a year abroad in Italy to immerse you fully in the language and culture.
Why study Italian?
If you enjoy languages and want practical skills alongside cultural understanding, Italian offers both academic depth and real-world value.
Studying Italian helps you:
Become fluent in a major European language
Understand Italy’s cultural, artistic, and historical influence
Develop strong communication and intercultural skills
Improve employability in international careers
Gain confidence living and working abroad
Italian is widely used in business, diplomacy, fashion, design, tourism, and cultural industries.
Why study Italian?
Course Summary
Study of the Italian language, culture, history, and society, developing advanced language skills alongside a deep understanding of Italy’s cultural and global influence.
What you'll study
Most Italian degrees cover:
Italian language (speaking, listening, reading, writing)
Italian culture, society, and identity
History and politics of Italy
Italian literature and film
Translation and intercultural communication
Research and academic skills in languages
Skills You'll Gain
A degree in Italian builds a wide range of valuable communication and academic skills, including:
Advanced language and communication skills – enabling confident professional use of Italian.
Intercultural awareness – supporting effective work across cultures.
Critical and analytical thinking – through study of texts, media, and society.
Research and writing skills – preparing you for academic and professional contexts.
Independence and adaptability – developed through language immersion and study abroad.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
International business and trade
Translation and interpreting (with further training)
Education and teaching
Tourism, hospitality, and travel
Media, marketing, and communications
Diplomacy, government, and NGOs
Work Experiences & Placements
Italian degrees often include opportunities to gain practical experience, particularly during the year abroad.
Depending on the programme, you may:
Study at an Italian university
Work as a language assistant in schools
Complete internships or work placements in Italy
Volunteer with cultural or community organisations
Common sectors include:
Education and language teaching
Tourism and hospitality
International business and trade
Cultural institutions and NGOs
Media, communications, and translation
Universities usually provide support with placement sourcing and preparation.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Many universities accept Italian at A-level or offer courses starting from beginner level. A Modern Language or English Literature are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Explain why you want to study Italian and Italian culture.
Mention travel, cultural interests, or language learning experiences.
Highlight communication skills and curiosity about other cultures.
Show motivation for studying or working abroad.
What to do Next
Decide whether you want beginner or advanced entry.
Explore courses with compulsory or optional year abroad.
Start practising Italian through apps, films, or reading.
Research careers where language skills are valued.
Wider Reading
Italian Neighbours – Tim Parks
An insightful look at everyday life and culture in Italy.A History of Italy – Christopher Duggan
A clear overview of Italy’s political and cultural development.The Leopard – Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
A classic Italian novel exploring social change and identity.Cinema Italiano – Gian Piero Brunetta
An accessible introduction to Italian film and culture.Italian Grammar in Practice – Susanna Nocchi
A practical resource for improving language accuracy.