Italian and Philosophy

One of Europe's most creative and diverse civilisations, Italy has a fascinating and influential history. Studying Italian and Philosophy, which has been at the core of Western intellectual life for 2,500 years, helps us understand the contemporary world, and also sheds light on the past.

Italian

Study Italian with us, and you will learn the language in the context of Italian culture. Courses cover some of the most famous and influential works of literature, art and cinema.

No previous knowledge of Italian is needed. Intensive language tuition, including a year spent studying or working in Italy, will develop your ability to read, write and speak the language to a high standard with advanced translation skills.

Many of our graduates started as complete beginners in the language. By the end of the programme, you will be able to demonstrate a range of linguistic skills and crucial intercultural competencies.

Philosophy

Studying philosophy will:

• allow you to think about some of the great philosophical questions in a clear, disciplined and systematic manner

• introduce you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present

• illuminate the connections between diverse areas of human experience

• make you more aware of the assumptions that form the basis of your beliefs

Why Edinburgh

As a world-leading historic, festival and capital city, Edinburgh is the ideal place to study a language in its cultural context. From our own Italian Society to the Italian Cultural Institute, you will find many places in Edinburgh to develop your interest in Italian culture. The city has been twinned with Florence since 1964.

We are unique in Scotland in offering students a full academic year abroad within the four-year honours programme, regardless of whether you spend the year studying or working.

Philosophy has been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583 and Italian since 1919. Today, graduating with a degree in Italian and Philosophy from Edinburgh gives you the blend of specialist skills and intercultural awareness valued in a range of careers around the globe.

How long it takes to complete this degree programme

This programme is studied over 4 years, including a year abroad. This enables us to build choice and flexibility into your studies, giving you time to explore options, find what you like and build your skills.

Your first two years will be your pre-honours years. They will give you a good grounding in your subjects. In addition to studying core courses, you will broaden your education and skill set by choosing option courses. This may enable you to change the focus of your programme.

Your final two years will be your honours years. You will spend Year 3 abroad, gaining a lived experience of Italian culture. Year 4 will be tailored to your interests in specific topics or approaches to Italian and Philosophy.

Programme benefits

• Learn in an historic, capital city where Italian has been taught for over a century.

• Study over four years, including one abroad.

• Become fluent in a language.

• Try out different subjects in your first two years.

• Delve into fantastic libraries and collections.

• Try your hand at creative writing and publishing.