Italian Studies

The Italian Studies programme at the University of Birmingham offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich language, culture, history, and literature of Italy from both historical and contemporary perspectives. Designed to develop advanced language skills, the course combines rigorous linguistic training with in-depth cultural insights, enabling students to attain a high level of fluency and cultural understanding. Throughout the programme, students engage with a diverse range of modules that cover Italian language, literature, cinema, history, and contemporary society, encouraging critical thinking and cross-cultural awareness. The programme also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as research, analysis, and communication, which are highly valued in today’s global job market. Opportunities for study abroad are integral to the programme, allowing students to immerse themselves in Italian language and culture firsthand, thereby enhancing their linguistic competence and intercultural competence. The curriculum is flexible, with options for specializations in areas such as Italian literature, linguistics, or media studies, tailored to students' interests and career aspirations. The faculty comprises experts across disciplines related to Italy, ensuring a high-quality academic experience grounded in current research and cultural engagement. Graduates of the Italian Studies programme will be equipped with a deep understanding of Italy’s cultural heritage and contemporary issues, as well as advanced language skills, making them well-prepared for careers in international relations, translation, teaching, cultural management, journalism, and beyond. The programme fosters a vibrant academic community, encouraging student participation in cultural events, language workshops, and research projects. Overall, the University of Birmingham’s Italian Studies programme offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for anyone passionate about Italy and eager to gain vital skills for a global career.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3844 Year (EEA)
• EUR 12916 Year (Non-EEA)

UK / EU students £3,375 International students £11,340

• English

Course Content

No prior knowledge of the Russian language is necessary to enter our degrees. In the first and second years, students are divided into small groups according to whether they are beginners or have an A level or equivalent in Russian. (Students with AS level Russian are placed in the advanced group, and given extra tutorial support to catch up.) After the end of the first year, the beginners travel to the city of Petrozavodsk in Russia for an intensive four-week language course, for which many of the costs are covered by the University.

The year abroad - You can choose to spend your year abroad in various locations including Moscow, St Petersburg, Yaroslavl, Petrozavodsk, Tver and Volgograd, spending either two semesters in one place or splitting them between two different places, for instance a semester in Moscow and a semester in Tver (if you are studying Russian with another language, your year abroad can be split between Russia and the country where they speak the other language of your choice). There is also the opportunity to spend a semester in Krakow, Poland.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching is by means of a mixture of small group oral classes, tutorials, seminars, classes and lectures. Assessment methods vary, but usually involve a mixture of assessed written work and examinations.

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 80(Grade A)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• Number of A levels required: 3
• Minimum tariff points: 300
• Typical offer: ABB - BBB
• General Studies: accepted
• Required subjects and grades: a modern language or Latin at GCSE grade B minimum
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 3234 points
• Standard English language requirements apply. For further information you can find information about qualifications from your country or region
• Other qualifications are considered: Students with other qualifications are advised to speak to Undergraduate admissions.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Birmingham.

The University of Birmingham offers a comprehensive programme in Italian Studies designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Italian language, literature, culture, and history. The programme emphasizes advanced language skills, enabling students to communicate effectively in Italian both in written and spoken forms. Additionally, students are engaged with Italian literary works ranging from classical to contemporary, fostering critical analysis and interpretative skills. The curriculum often includes modules on Italian cinema, art, and societal developments, giving students a multidisciplinary perspective on Italy’s rich cultural heritage.

Students may have opportunities to study abroad in Italy, immersing themselves in the language and cultural environment to enhance their linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding. The programme aims to develop not only language competence but also cultural awareness, critical thinking, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in areas such as translation, international relations, cultural management, or further postgraduate study. The University of Birmingham’s Italian Studies programme collaborates with various cultural institutions and offers access to extensive learning resources, including language labs, libraries, and special events. The teaching staff is composed of experienced scholars and native speakers committed to providing high-quality education and fostering an engaging academic atmosphere.

Typically, the programme duration is three years for a standard undergraduate degree, with options for combined honours or joint degrees in conjunction with other disciplines. Assessment methods include coursework, examinations, presentations, and research projects. The university is also known for its vibrant student community and support services designed to assist students throughout their academic journey. Overall, the Italian Studies programme at the University of Birmingham aims to produce graduates who are proficient in Italian, knowledgeable about Italian culture and history, and equipped with transferable skills relevant to a wide range of professional fields.