As one of Europe's most creative and diverse civilisations, Italy has a fascinating and influential history. This programme offers you the opportunity to study Italian in its cultural context while exploring how language works.Italian and Linguistics make an excellent joint honours choice by combining the study of:* a modern language in its cultural context * the expression and creation of meaningLinguistics courses of particular relevance to language students cover:* the speech sounds of the world's languages* variation in the languages of the world* the structure and history of world languages**Italian** 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.**Linguistics** Linguistics examines how language works, describing how sounds, words, sentences and conversations combine to express and create meaning.You will study:* the uses of language in everyday life* the ways in which it varies across society and evolves over time* how it is mastered by childrenAs you progress through the programme, you will have the opportunity to formulate and test scientific hypotheses about linguistic phenomena using specialist linguistics and phonetics equipment. **Why Edinburgh** Italian has been taught here since 1919, and has been part of our tradition for many years, as far back as the 18th century. 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. Our programmes are extremely flexible. In Years 1 and 2, you will choose option courses from a broad list of disciplines, and specialise as you progress through your honours years.From our own Italian Society to the Italian Cultural Institute, you will find many places in Edinburgh to indulge your interest in Italian culture.

School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures