University of Turin

What you'll study

The programme builds progressive language competence in one or two chosen Asian or African languages (for example Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Hindi/Urdu, Turkish and other languages subject to departmental availability), alongside core modules in international communication, intercultural studies and applied linguistics. Teaching balances language tuition (phonology, grammar, conversation, reading and writing), literature and cultural history, with practical training in translation and interpreting, media discourse, and communication technologies.

• Yearly structure: a three-year undergraduate degree with a mix of compulsory and elective modules, modular assessments and a final independent project or dissertation.
• Language pathway: staged courses from elementary to advanced levels, including specialised vocabulary for fields such as diplomacy, business and media.
• Core communication modules: intercultural communication, international media and public diplomacy, discourse analysis, and project planning for international cooperation.
• Applied practice: translation and interpreting workshops, subtitling/localisation, language laboratories, and simulated negotiation or press scenarios.
• Research and final work: a capstone dissertation or applied project that combines language study with a communication-focused topic; supervised by faculty in Asian and African studies or communication sciences.
• Mobility and placements: opportunities for study abroad through international exchange programmes and short-term internships with cultural institutes, NGOs, media outlets or businesses; local internship options in Turin’s international community.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised secondary school diploma qualifying for university study in their home country. Good academic records in humanities and language subjects are advantageous. The programme expects competence in the language of instruction; parts of the curriculum may be delivered in Italian and English, so applicants should demonstrate sufficient proficiency in one or both of these languages.

• Evidence of secondary education completion that meets Italian university entry standards.
• Proof of language ability: a recognised English certificate at intermediate level or higher may be required if not a native speaker; applicants whose first language is not Italian may be asked to show Italian proficiency for courses taught in Italian.
• Some applicants may be invited to a short interview or to take internal language placement tests to determine the appropriate entry level for the chosen language(s).
• Relevant extracurricular experience (language study, cultural exchange, volunteering) strengthens applications but is not mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates develop both advanced language skills and practical communication expertise, making them suitable for a range of international and language-centred careers. Common career paths include translation and interpreting (freelance or in-house), international journalism and media production, cultural diplomacy and work with embassies or cultural institutes, roles in NGOs and international organisations, and positions in international business, tourism and localisation services.

• Professional translator/interpreter and localisation specialist
• International relations and diplomacy, including cultural attaché roles
• International development and NGO project coordination
• Media, journalism and communications for international audiences
• Teaching and language education at various levels
• International business, export/import coordination and market research focused on language-specific regions

Why study at University of Turin

The University of Turin is one of Italy’s longstanding institutions for humanities and modern languages, with dedicated departments and research centres focused on Asian and African studies. Students benefit from experienced faculty, specialised language laboratories, and a strong network of international partnerships that facilitate exchanges and internships. Turin’s cultural and diplomatic scene offers practical placement opportunities and access to cultural institutes, embassies and multinational organisations, while the university’s interdisciplinary approach encourages links between language study, communication practice and research.

• Established expertise in language teaching and area studies within a comprehensive university environment.
• Language labs, multimedia resources and regular guest lectures by practitioners in translation, diplomacy and media.
• International exchange agreements and career-orientated internship support.
• A vibrant, multilingual city context that enriches practical language learning and professional networking.