University of York

What you'll study

This is an honours degree that integrates undergraduate business management modules with intensive Italian language, literature and cultural study, including a full year abroad in an Italian-speaking country. Business study covers key functional areas — accounting and finance, marketing, operations, organisational behaviour, business strategy and business economics — alongside modules on ethics, entrepreneurship and research methods. Language work progresses from practical communication and grammar to topics such as translation, business Italian, contemporary Italian society, film and literature, and media.

Programme structure typically includes foundational methods and skills in the early years, followed by more specialised optional modules in later years and a supervised project or dissertation. The year abroad is a core component: students usually spend this period studying at a partner university, completing a professional placement, or combining work and study in Italy, developing linguistic fluency and intercultural competence.

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, language workshops, case studies, group projects and placements. Assessment is by a combination of coursework, presentations, group work, language exams and, where applicable, a final-year project or dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have qualifications equivalent to strong undergraduate entry standards (A-levels, International Baccalaureate or recognised international equivalents). Admissions tutors look for evidence of academic ability, motivation for combined business and language study, and readiness for a year abroad. Prior study of Italian is often expected or applicants may need to demonstrate equivalent competence in the language; there are sometimes routes for those with other language backgrounds but these are assessed on an individual basis.

Applicants must also meet the university's English language requirements if English is not their first language. Fitness to study abroad and any visa or placement requirements will be checked before the year abroad is confirmed.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a blend of business knowledge, practical skills and fluent or near-fluent Italian. Typical career paths include roles in international business, management training programmes, marketing, finance, consulting, supply chain and operations management, and business development for firms with Italian or Mediterranean interests.

Strong language ability also opens opportunities in translation and interpreting, diplomacy, international NGOs, tourism and cultural organisations, and roles requiring client-facing language skills. The year abroad and placement experience enhance employability by providing real-world experience, professional networks, and a demonstrable ability to work across cultures.

Why study at University of York

The University of York combines a research-informed business curriculum with well-established modern language teaching. York Management School provides business-focused modules and access to employer links, guest speakers and careers support, while the Department of Languages and Cultures offers specialist teaching in Italian language, literature and culture. The university supports year-abroad arrangements with partner institutions and provides dedicated advising to prepare students for study or work overseas.

Studying at York gives students the benefits of small-group teaching in seminars and language classes, opportunities for interdisciplinary projects, and an active campus environment in a historic city with strong transport links to the UK and Europe. Career services, placement support and alumni networks help graduates move into international roles where combined business and language skills are valued.