Politics and Italian

Politics and Italian is a combination that reflects the genuine entanglement of Italian history and European political life. Italy's political tradition is one of the most complex and instructive in Europe, shaped by the legacies of Renaissance city-states, unification in the nineteenth century, Fascism, the postwar republic, decades of political instability, and the country's central role in the development of the European project. Studying Italian politics and culture through the language itself adds a dimension of authenticity and depth that translation alone cannot provide, and the intercultural competence that comes with language learning is itself increasingly valued in professional life.

At the University of Manchester, this four-year, full-time degree enables you to explore world politics while developing genuine proficiency in Italian. You will study comparative politics, political theory, international relations, and the specific political context of Italy and the Italian-speaking world alongside language study that develops your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills to a high level. Manchester is a leading research university with strengths in both politics and modern languages, and the programme reflects that combined expertise.

A sandwich year and work placement are available, giving you professional experience in an environment where you can apply both your political knowledge and your Italian, whether in the UK or abroad. The typical entry tariff of 152 points reflects strong academic expectations.

Graduates of politics and Italian go on to careers in diplomacy, the civil service, international organisations, journalism, European affairs, the cultural sector, education, and international business. The combination of political analytical skills and Italian language competence is particularly valued in roles involving European institutions, Italian and EU trade policy, cultural diplomacy, and organisations working across the Italian-speaking world. Postgraduate study in political science, European studies, Italian studies, or international relations is a natural next step.