Italian and History of Art

As one of Europe's most creative and diverse civilisations, Italy is the birthplace of many influential artists and art movements.

Studying Italian and History of Art helps you understand the contemporary world, and also sheds light on the past.

During your time with us, you will gain the skills to speak and write in Italian on a range of issues relating to Italy and the Italianate world, including its visual and material culture.

Our programme is flexible. In Years 1 and 2, as well as Italian and History of Art, you will choose option courses from a wide range of disciplines. You will then specialise as you progress through your honours years.

Italian

On this programme, you will learn the language in the context of some of the world's 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.

History of Art

Beyond Italy, History of Art will introduce you to art from different periods and cultures around the globe.

You will learn how, and for whom, works of art were made. You will also explore their meaning and discover the ways in which they can be interpreted.

Why Edinburgh

Italian has been taught here since 1919, and has been part of our tradition for many years, as far back as the 18th century.

From the Italian Cultural Institute to the four National Galleries of Scotland, you will find many places in Edinburgh to develop your interest in Italian art, cinema and literature.

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. When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.

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 History of Art.

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.

• Explore fantastic libraries, collections and galleries.

• Try your hand at creative writing and publishing.