Careers and employability

Students using headphones at desks.

An undergraduate degree in Italian provides the knowledge and expertise to set you up for a successful career. Through training in analytic and communication skills, your expertise in Italian, and your experience of living in Italy, you'll gain skills which are valued and highly-desired by potential employers and the transferable skills developed for living abroad.

Leeds graduates have an excellent reputation and Leeds is the 5th most targeted university in the UK by graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market in 2022).

What can I do with an Italian degree do?

Our graduates are now working in a range of employment including:

  • business and finance
  • education
  • academic research
  • retail
  • marketing and public relations
  • transport
  • translation
  • tourism and hospitality.

Leeds offers postgraduate courses for careers in translation and interpretation. The MA by Research will allow you to further your knowledge and expertise in Italian language and culture and is excellent preparation for a PhD or a chosen career.

Recent employers include:

  • British Council
  • Maxis Investments
  • NHS Digital (previously Health and Social Care Information Centre)
  • Sainsbury's
  • Foreign & Commonwealth Office
  • Savills.

What careers support will I have?

You’ll benefit from bespoke support and opportunities in the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies and have access to the activities and expertise of the award-winning University Careers Centre.

School support

As a student with us, you will be guided in your career choices and prepared for life after your degree in a variety of ways. Workshops and events are organised for you by the School throughout the year and focus on networking, understanding the value of your language skills, hearing from alumni about their career experiences and hosting graduate recruiters who want to hire you.

We’ll also keep you informed of work/voluntary placements for your time abroad and of any other part-time and volunteering opportunities that you can fit around your studies.

University support

Our experts in the University’s Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path, to understand the opportunities available and the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions, and meetings with our alumni.  

Your year abroad

By studying abroad or taking a work placement year you'll gain valuable experiences and skills to help you in the graduate job market. 

Leeds University Union

Our award-winning Union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year.

Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests, providing opportunities to develop skills such as team working and leadership.

The Italian Society offers a great place for learners and speakers of Italian to get together and get involved in events, nights out, and other activities inspired by a shared love of Italy. Events include Italian speaking coffee mornings, Italian film nights, and an annual trip to Italy. 

You could be a key player in an award-winning sports team, or become a committee member and chair society meetings, or you could even project manage a volunteering trip overseas. The Union is home to School Reps who are appointed by students to represent the views and be the voice of students in your School. 

Enterprise

At Leeds, you can access support to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we offer award-winning specialist support.