Course Overview

The Higher Diploma in Arts (Italian) is a conversion course for those with a prior knowledge of Italian who want to study Italian language and culture to honours degree level. Competence in Italian language on entry should be equivalent to the standard in Italian achieved at the end of First Arts.

Course Outline

The course involves the study of Italian language to BA level and of Italian culture (literature, theatre, cinema, art, media) from Dante to Berlusconi. The course consists of modules to the value of 60 credits taken from Levels II and III of the undergraduate BA degree in Italian.

Core Modules

• IT2101: Intermediate Italian Language (10 Credits)
• IT3101: Advanced Italian Language (10 Credits)
• IT3205: Dante Inferno (5 Credits)

Course Practicalities

Full-time students may expect approximately 16 contact hours per week, divided between language tutorials and lectures/seminars for culture modules. Students must also undertake independent study and complete language exercises out of class, for which they will receive regular feedback. Required reading must be completed in advance of classes.

Assessment

Language skills are assessed by assignments and/or written and listening tests, which provide students with regular feedback on their progress. At the end of the year, students take written and oral examinations. Courses on Italian culture are assessed by a combination of class tests, written assignments, and end-of-year examinations.

Why Choose This Course

The Department of Italian is one of the smallest units in UCC, which means that as a student, you get the individual attention needed to help you progress from beginners' level to degree standard. There are a high percentage of mature students in the BA undergraduate programme in Italian, which facilitates the integration of students of this course.

Skills and Careers Information

Italian is not widely taught in Irish schools and consequently, student numbers are small compared, for example, to those in French. Demand by employers in Ireland for graduates of Italian, with the strong language and analytical skills you can acquire with us, is currently greater than supply, but many of our graduates also choose to work in Italy or other countries.

Requirements

It is intended for those who already have a 3 or 4 year primary degree, preferably in the area of Arts or the Sciences, and who wish to study Italian intensively over one academic year. The Higher Diploma in Arts is a conversion programme and applicants would not normally have studied the relevant subject to Honours Degree level previously, but you must satisfy the Head of Department that, at the start of the course, your linguistic competence in Italian will allow you to draw benefit from courses at second-year and final-year undergraduate level.

English Language Requirements

Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Full-time: €6,400 Part-time: €3,900. The Non-EU fee for this course is €18,500.

Deposits

If your course requires a deposit, please note that booking fees and deposits are non-refundable in all cases.

How to Apply

1. Check dates: Check the opening and closing dates for the application process.
2. Gather documents: Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the UCC online application portal.
3. Apply online: Apply online by clicking the application portal link. Note most of our courses have a non-refundable €50 application fee.

Additional Requirements

Please note you will be required to provide additional information as part of the online application process for this programme. This will include the following:

• You may enter the details of professional or voluntary positions held.
• In addition to your previously declared qualifications, please outline any additional academic courses, self-learning, and professional training relevant to this programme.
• Please describe your motivation and readiness for this programme.
• Please detail your computing/technical/IT skills.
• Please indicate your level of foreign language expertise in any of the languages offered by the programme.

Similar Courses

• Professional Master of Education (second level teacher training programme)
• MA in Translation Studies

Programme Requirements

See the current programme requirements in the University Academic Catalogue: Higher Diploma in Arts. Note that the modules for all courses are subject to change from year to year. For complete descriptions of individual modules, see the Book of Modules.

It is suitable for graduates seeking to pursue a master's degree in Italian or enhance their qualifications with Italian language proficiency. The program focuses on Italian language development to BA level and explores Italian culture, encompassing literature, theater, cinema, art, and media, from Dante to Berlusconi.

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Outline:

The course comprises modules totaling 60 credits, drawn from Levels II and III of the undergraduate BA degree in Italian. Students select modules in consultation with the Head of the Department of Italian or the course coordinator, considering timetable constraints and course suitability. The program includes a mandatory 10-credit language module at BA level, with additional language study potentially required based on individual needs. The specific program of study varies for each student, depending on their background, preferred specialization, and other factors.

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Assessment:

Language skills are assessed through assignments, written and listening tests, providing regular feedback on progress. At the end of the year, students take written and oral examinations. Courses on Italian culture are evaluated through a combination of class tests, written assignments, and end-of-year examinations. The Department of Italian emphasizes the development of writing skills, encouraging student engagement with lecturers during essay and project drafting.

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Teaching:

The Italian Department faculty consists of native Italian speakers or individuals with near-native Italian language proficiency. Courses are taught by academic staff, College language teachers, and PhD students.

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Careers:

The program equips graduates with strong language and analytical skills, making them highly sought after by employers in Ireland and abroad. Graduates find employment in various sectors, including those requiring Italian language proficiency. The Department maintains a LinkedIn Group exclusively for its graduates, facilitating information exchange regarding job vacancies.

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Other:

The Department of Italian is one of the smallest units at UCC, allowing for personalized attention and support for students. The BA undergraduate program in Italian has a high percentage of mature students, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students of this Higher Diploma program.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.