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, as well as shedding light on the past.

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.

Studying philosophy allows you to think about some of the great philosophical questions in a clear, disciplined and systematic manner. Philosophy:* introduces you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present * illuminates the connections between diverse areas of human experience * makes you more aware of the assumptions that form the basis of your beliefs

As a world-leading historic, festival and capital city, Edinburgh is the ideal place to study a language in its cultural context. Philosophy has been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583 and Italian since 1919.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.Studying over four years enables you to choose courses, including from other disciplines, that match your own interests, expertise and employability needs. Combined with your core courses, our options help you gain skills in many areas of the arts, humanities and social sciences.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.