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BA Italian and Portuguese
Cardiff
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA in Italian and Portuguese at Cardiff University is designed for students passionate about languages, cultures, and international relations. This interdisciplinary program combines the study of Italian and Portuguese, two significant Romance languages, alongside an exploration of their respective cultures, histories, and societal contexts. Students are introduced to a range of topics, from language acquisition to political, historical, and literary analysis, providing a well-rounded education that prepares graduates for careers in international business, diplomacy, translation, or cultural exchange. The program offers students the opportunity to develop linguistic proficiency in both languages while gaining an understanding of the socio-political dynamics of Italy and the Lusophone world, which includes countries such as Brazil, Portugal, and Angola.
Curriculum: The BA in Italian and Portuguese curriculum is designed to offer a balanced combination of language, culture, and literature studies. In the first year, students focus on mastering the foundational aspects of both languages, including grammar, vocabulary, and conversation. As they progress, the curriculum includes modules in literature, history, film, politics, and cultural studies, with a focus on the political and economic connections between Italy and Portuguese-speaking countries. By the third year, students will have the option to study more specialized topics, such as contemporary Italian and Brazilian cinema, translation studies, or the socio-political dynamics of Lusophone countries. Additionally, the program allows for a year abroad in Italy or a Portuguese-speaking country, offering students immersion opportunities to improve their language skills and deepen their cultural understanding.
Research Focus: Cardiff University’s BA in Italian and Portuguese integrates research into both language studies and cultural exploration. The program allows students to engage with research on a variety of subjects, including Italian and Portuguese literature, language acquisition, contemporary politics, and social movements. The faculty members are experts in fields like Italian and Lusophone cultural studies, and their research influences the modules offered in the program. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects, particularly in their final year, where they can explore topics like the impact of immigration on Portuguese and Italian societies, or the role of language in shaping national identities.
Industry Engagement: Cardiff University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement through internships, work placements, and partnerships with international organizations. Students studying Italian and Portuguese have the opportunity to engage in practical experiences in sectors such as translation, international business, tourism, and cultural institutions. The university has strong links with international companies and organizations in the Lusophone world and Italy, providing students with access to networking opportunities, internships, and placements. Through these collaborations, students gain valuable industry insights, practical skills, and a competitive edge when entering the job market. Additionally, the university’s location in Cardiff provides students with opportunities to engage with local cultural events and businesses that have connections to Italy and Portugal.
Global Perspective: The BA in Italian and Portuguese offers a truly global perspective by focusing not only on the languages and cultures of Italy and Portugal but also on the broader Lusophone world, including Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique. By studying these interconnected regions, students gain insights into global issues such as migration, globalization, and international diplomacy. The program fosters an understanding of how Italy and Portuguese-speaking countries influence global trade, politics, and cultural exchanges. Cardiff University’s international connections and study abroad options provide students with the opportunity to live and work in Italy or a Lusophone country, further enhancing their global perspective and preparing them for careers in international relations, diplomacy, or global business.
Location
Cardiff
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 22700
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence.
Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.
Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.
British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.
International Foundation Programme Scholarships: For international students who need to complete a foundation year before beginning an undergraduate degree, Cardiff University offers scholarships to cover part of the foundation year tuition fees. This scholarship supports students in their transition to full-time degree programs at the university.
Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.
Graduates of the BA Italian and Portuguese program from Cardiff University gain fluency in two major European languages, along with a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and political contexts in which these languages are spoken. The program equips students with valuable skills in communication, critical thinking, and cross-cultural understanding, opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities.
Translator/Interpreter: Graduates can work as professional translators or interpreters, providing services for businesses, government agencies, or non-profit organizations that need multilingual support in both Italian and Portuguese.
International Relations Specialist: With expertise in two key European languages, graduates are well-suited for roles in international diplomacy, public affairs, and relations, working for government agencies, embassies, or multinational organizations.
Language Teacher: Many graduates choose to become language teachers, either teaching Italian and Portuguese in schools, universities, or private institutions, or working as language tutors in various settings.
Cultural Adviser or Consultant: Graduates can pursue roles in cultural consultancy, offering expertise on Italian and Portuguese culture for businesses, government bodies, or tourism companies seeking to enhance cross-cultural understanding and communication.
Tourism and Travel Industry Professional: Proficiency in Italian and Portuguese opens career options in the travel and tourism industries, where graduates can work as tour guides, travel agents, or destination managers specializing in regions where these languages are spoken.
Marketing and Communications Specialist: The ability to communicate effectively in Italian and Portuguese gives graduates an advantage in global marketing, advertising, and public relations roles, especially in businesses with international operations or those targeting Italian and Portuguese-speaking markets.
Journalist/Editor: Graduates can work in journalism, media, or publishing, writing, editing, or producing content for Italian and Portuguese-speaking audiences, covering topics in politics, culture, or society.
Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer: Graduates can pursue careers in foreign services or diplomacy, working in consulates, embassies, and international organizations, representing the interests of their country in Italian and Portuguese-speaking regions.
International Business Professional: With a strong command of two global languages, graduates can work in international trade, business development, and management, facilitating communication and operations between businesses in Italy, Portugal, and other international markets.
Public Relations and Corporate Communications Specialist: Proficiency in Italian and Portuguese can help graduates pursue roles in public relations and corporate communications, managing relations with Italian and Portuguese media, clients, and stakeholders.
