Italian/ Theatre Studies

Italian and theatre studies is a combination that brings together two disciplines with deep historical connections, since Italian theatre has been central to European performance traditions from the commedia dell'arte through the opera seria to the work of Dario Fo. Italian as a language and cultural tradition gives you access to a civilisation of extraordinary richness in literature, art, philosophy, and performance, while theatre studies develops your understanding of dramatic form, directing, performance theory, and the making of live events. Together they cultivate both linguistic depth and a sophisticated understanding of performance as a cultural and social practice.

At the University of Glasgow, this five-year full-time programme develops your Italian to a high level of proficiency across all four language skills while also engaging you in the theory, history, and practice of theatre. You will study Italian language, literature, culture, and history alongside dramatic texts, performance theory, and the practicalities of theatre-making, with access to the university's close connections with the theatre industry and opportunities to learn from and engage with practitioners of national and international standing. A sandwich year in industry and a work placement are both part of the programme, giving you direct professional experience, potentially in Italian theatre, cultural organisations, or related fields, before graduation.

With a typical entry tariff of 168 UCAS points, this degree attracts students who combine linguistic ability with a genuine passion for theatre. Graduates pursue careers in theatre direction, performance, arts administration, cultural programming, teaching, translation, broadcasting, journalism, and the growing field of cultural diplomacy. The combination of Italian language skills and theatre expertise is particularly well suited to roles involving Italian cultural institutions, opera, festival programming, and international cultural exchange.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in Italian, theatre, performance studies, or translation.