BA Welsh and Italian

The BA in Welsh and Italian at Cardiff University is a unique interdisciplinary program that combines the study of the Welsh language and culture with the exploration of Italian language, literature, and history. This program provides students with the opportunity to become fluent in both Welsh and Italian, while gaining a deep understanding of the historical, cultural, and literary contexts of both languages. Students will develop critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to communicate effectively in two distinct linguistic and cultural environments. Graduates of this program will be equipped with versatile language skills and cultural knowledge, making them highly employable in a variety of sectors, including education, translation, international relations, and cultural heritage.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA in Welsh and Italian is structured to provide a balanced education in both languages and their respective cultural contexts. In the early stages of the program, students will be introduced to the Welsh language, focusing on grammar, vocabulary, and oral skills, alongside foundational Italian language courses. As the program progresses, students will engage with a range of modules exploring Welsh and Italian literature, history, culture, and cinema, allowing them to develop a comparative understanding of both linguistic traditions. The curriculum is designed to support the development of language proficiency in both Welsh and Italian, with opportunities for students to participate in language immersion activities, study abroad programs, and specialized modules in advanced language skills, translation, and linguistics.

Research Focus: Cardiff University is renowned for its research in both Welsh studies and Italian studies. The BA in Welsh and Italian encourages students to engage with contemporary research in these fields, with opportunities to explore topics such as Welsh language revitalization, the impact of Italian Renaissance literature, and the role of language in identity formation. Students will be introduced to cutting-edge research methodologies and have the chance to contribute to academic discussions through individual research projects, essays, and presentations. Cardiff’s expertise in Welsh cultural studies and Italian history offers students the chance to develop specialized knowledge in both areas, providing a strong foundation for future research careers or further postgraduate study.

Industry Engagement: The BA in Welsh and Italian provides students with numerous opportunities to engage with industry and gain practical experience. Cardiff University has strong links with cultural institutions, museums, language organizations, and government bodies that focus on Welsh and Italian heritage. Students can undertake internships, work placements, and volunteer positions, allowing them to apply their language skills and cultural knowledge in real-world settings. These industry connections also provide students with opportunities to network and gain insights into potential career paths, whether in translation, education, cultural diplomacy, or the arts. Additionally, Cardiff’s partnerships with universities in Italy provide students with the opportunity to study abroad and immerse themselves in Italian culture.

Global Perspective: The BA in Welsh and Italian offers a global perspective by exploring the historical and cultural connections between Wales and Italy, as well as positioning both countries within the broader European and global context. Students will examine how Italian culture has influenced the world, particularly through art, architecture, and literature, while also exploring the global significance of the Welsh language and its role in cultural preservation and national identity. The program also offers students the opportunity to study abroad in Italy, enhancing their language skills and understanding of Italian culture in its native context. This global outlook is further enriched by Cardiff University’s diverse international student community, which provides a unique opportunity to engage with a wide range of perspectives and experiences.

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 in Welsh and Italian from Cardiff University are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities that capitalize on their linguistic and cultural expertise in both Welsh and Italian. The program’s combination of language proficiency and cultural knowledge opens up various pathways across multiple sectors.

Education and Teaching: One of the most common career paths for Welsh and Italian graduates is teaching. Graduates can pursue a career in secondary education, teaching Welsh language or Italian, with opportunities in Welsh-medium schools or Italian language schools. With further postgraduate qualifications, graduates can also teach at the university level, offering courses in Welsh literature, Italian language, or cultural studies. There are also opportunities to work in adult education programs or as private language tutors, where bilingual expertise in Welsh and Italian is highly sought after.

Translation and Interpretation: The strong language skills developed during the BA in Welsh and Italian prepare graduates for careers in translation and interpretation. Graduates can work as translators, converting documents, literature, or official materials between Welsh, Italian, and English. There is also a demand for interpreters in sectors such as business, government, and international relations, particularly in bilingual environments where Welsh and Italian are needed for communication. Graduates can also work in literary translation, translating works of Welsh and Italian literature for global audiences.

Cultural Heritage and Museums: Graduates with a passion for history, language, and culture can pursue careers in the cultural heritage sector. They may work in museums, galleries, or archives focusing on Welsh or Italian history, culture, or language preservation. Jobs in this sector include curatorial roles, heritage management, and cultural outreach. Graduates can help preserve and interpret cultural artifacts, contribute to exhibitions, or engage with the public through educational programs and tours, particularly in Welsh-language cultural institutions or Italian heritage sites.

International Relations and Diplomacy: With expertise in two European languages and cultures, graduates are well-positioned for roles in international relations and diplomacy. They can work for government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or international organizations where language skills and cultural understanding are critical. Potential job roles include policy analysis, foreign affairs, cultural diplomacy, and working with international organizations that focus on the relationship between Wales, Italy, and the broader international community. Graduates may also find roles in embassies or consulates where language proficiency and cultural knowledge are essential.

Publishing and Media: The skills developed in writing, research, and communication make Welsh and Italian graduates ideal candidates for roles in publishing, journalism, and media. Graduates can work as editors, writers, or journalists for newspapers, magazines, or digital media platforms that focus on Welsh or Italian culture, literature, and language. There is also the potential to work in bilingual publishing, producing books, articles, and media content in both Welsh and Italian, or to develop and edit content related to European culture and history.

Tourism and Travel: Graduates of the BA in Welsh and Italian can pursue careers in the tourism industry, where their language skills and cultural knowledge are invaluable. They can work as tour guides, cultural tourism officers, or event managers, guiding visitors through Welsh and Italian heritage sites, promoting cultural experiences, and enhancing tourist experiences with their bilingual abilities. There is a growing interest in cultural tourism, particularly in Welsh-speaking areas and historical sites in Italy, providing ample opportunities for graduates to develop projects, lead tours, and work in the growing sector of bilingual tourism.

Public Sector and Government: Graduates can work in various public sector roles, particularly those that require expertise in bilingual communication and cultural understanding. Opportunities exist in local government, particularly in Wales, where the Welsh language is a key area of focus. Graduates can work in roles related to language policy, cultural programming, or the development of bilingual services in government institutions. Additionally, graduates can work in public organizations that promote the Welsh language or Italian culture, supporting initiatives that protect linguistic diversity, foster cultural exchange, and develop national or international partnerships.

Marketing and Public Relations: With a strong foundation in communication, Welsh and Italian graduates can pursue careers in marketing, public relations, or communications. Their bilingual abilities enable them to work in international markets, where understanding local languages and cultural nuances is essential for creating effective marketing campaigns. Graduates can work for advertising agencies, global brands, or in public relations firms that focus on European markets, or in roles that require bilingual content creation, managing international media campaigns, or brand positioning for both Welsh and Italian-speaking communities.

Creative Industries and Arts: Graduates can also explore careers in the creative industries, including roles in film, theater, music, and the arts, particularly those that involve Welsh and Italian cultural output. Potential careers include working as scriptwriters, directors, producers, or in arts management roles where knowledge of both Welsh and Italian languages and cultures is essential. Additionally, graduates can engage in digital arts, working on projects that involve bilingual media, such as creating multilingual content for websites, social media platforms, or video production companies.

Private Sector and Consultancy: Graduates may also find opportunities in the private sector, including roles in international business or consultancy. Companies that operate in both Wales and Italy, or have international business relations with these regions, value employees with bilingual skills and cross-cultural knowledge. Graduates can work as consultants, offering language services, cross-cultural training, or advice on international business practices. Additionally, some may pursue opportunities in digital marketing, where proficiency in two European languages is crucial for managing online campaigns, social media, and website content for international clients.

NGOs and Charity Work: Graduates may choose to work with non-profit organizations that focus on cultural preservation, language revitalization, or international development. Welsh and Italian graduates are valuable in NGOs that engage with bilingual communities or work on projects promoting linguistic and cultural diversity. They may work in fundraising, project management, communications, or advocacy, supporting the needs of Welsh-speaking communities or Italian-language projects globally.