This course combines the study of Italian language and culture with a broader understanding of the increasingly critical economic and related issues that dominate the news agenda and shape the world in which we live. Through this course you will become confident and highly skilled in written and spoken Italian. You will master the fundamental elements of the language, to the point where you will graduate with a near-native command of it. We’re proud of our small language classes, led by native speakers. Direct access to expert staff for help and feedback ensures you develop your language skills to the best of your ability. In economics, you will study practical issues and explore the relationship between economics and society. This course places less emphasis on mathematical and statistical content, and instead you will focus on the relevance of how they are applied to problems. An integral part of the course is the opportunity for you to spend up to a year in Italy, either studying at a university or working on a placement. It allows you to directly immerse yourself in the culture and considerably develop your knowledge of Italian at the same time. By the time you graduate, you will be able to write and speak fluently in Italian – a big advantage given the current shortage of well-qualified linguists in the UK. The experience of studying or working abroad also distinguishes you from non-language graduates, providing evidence of self-reliance, adaptability and enterprise. The course also provides you with numerous transferable skills in research, analysis, presenting and group working, which will prove useful in a wide range of careers.