University of York

What you'll study

This four-year programme blends core philosophical study with progressive Italian language tuition and humanities options. In the philosophy component you will cover central areas such as epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, philosophy of mind, logic and the history of philosophy, together with contemporary topics like philosophy of science, political philosophy and applied ethics. Teaching methods include lectures, small-group seminars, tutorials and assessed essays, with opportunities for project work and independent research.

The Italian strand leads students from beginner or intermediate language levels to advanced competence in speaking, reading and writing. Typical language modules focus on grammar and accuracy, listening and speaking practice, translation and composition. Literature and culture modules introduce key periods and genres of Italian literature, film and cultural history, allowing comparative and interdisciplinary study alongside philosophy.

The year abroad is taken at a partner university or institution in Italy and can combine language tuition with subject-relevant study, work placements, or supervised learning designed to consolidate linguistic and cultural fluency. On returning to York, students complete a final-year dissertation or extended project in philosophy or an interdisciplinary topic combining both disciplines, and take advanced option modules in both areas.

Structure (typical)

• Year 1: Introductory philosophy modules, core logic/critical thinking, beginner or intermediate Italian language and a culture/literature option.
• Year 2: Intermediate/advanced philosophy modules, topic-specific modules (e.g. ethics, mind, epistemology), further Italian language development and literature modules.
• Year 3: Year abroad in Italy — study at a partner university, language immersion and possible placement or internship.
• Year 4: Final-year advanced philosophy options, a dissertation or long project, and advanced Italian modules in translation, literature, or culture.

Entry requirements

The programme is aimed at applicants with strong academic achievement and a commitment to study in two disciplines. Applicants are normally expected to have studied at least one essay-based subject to A-level or equivalent, though students with a combination of suitable qualifications may be considered. There are routes for complete beginners in Italian as well as for those with prior language study; check which entry pathway suits your level of Italian.

All applicants who are non-native English speakers will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved qualification or test. Applicants should be prepared to undertake a year abroad and comply with visa and placement requirements for study or work in Italy.

The admissions process typically considers personal statements, references and academic transcripts; candidates may be invited to interview or to provide written examples of their work in relevant subjects.

Career prospects

Graduates leave this degree with a combination of analytical and linguistic skills valued by employers. Philosophy develops abilities in critical reasoning, argumentation and independent research, while proficiency in Italian and international experience enhance communication and intercultural competence.

• Common career areas include education, translation and interpreting, publishing, journalism, policy and public service, international organisations and diplomacy.
• Graduates also enter graduate schemes in law, finance and management, work in NGOs and cultural organisations, or pursue postgraduate study in philosophy, linguistics, literary studies or applied translation.
• The year abroad strengthens employability for roles requiring language fluency and international experience, such as business development, tourism and European institutions.

Why study at University of York

York is home to an active Department of Philosophy known for research-led teaching across traditional and contemporary philosophical topics, with small-group teaching and opportunities for one-to-one supervision. The University’s Language Centre and Italian teaching staff provide structured support from beginner to advanced levels, and close links with partner universities in Italy facilitate well-supported year-abroad placements.

Students benefit from York’s collegiate-style campus, strong student support services, dedicated employability activities and a vibrant humanities community. The programme’s combination of philosophy and Italian, together with a year abroad, offers a distinctive pathway for students seeking rigorous intellectual training plus practical language skills and international experience.