Course summary

In this fascinating and varied five-year degree, you’ll learn two languages from beginner level and deepen your understanding of the modern world by exploring the histories and cultures of the nations that speak them. You’ll have the opportunity to spend one year in Japan and another in Italy, improving your language skills and gaining first-hand experience of these cultures and societies to enrich your understanding of these amazing countries. Rich in cultural heritage, Italy is a multi-ethnic society and a leading world economy. Learning Italian from beginner level, you’ll become proficient in the language and acquire extensive knowledge of the history and culture of this vibrant country. Playing a significant role in the global economy and international politics, Japan is also home to a rich culture and history, and a varied, changing society. Boasting cultural ‘cool’ and high-tech innovation, Japan also faces complex social changes in the 21st century. This course will allow you to develop your Japanese language skills, while exploring the diversity of Japanese society, politics, history and culture to understand its regional and global importance.  We teach Japanese from beginner level, but if you already have some knowledge of the language, we can usually accommodate you. The School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at Leeds is an exciting place for your undergraduate experience. Our diverse international community of students and staff, student-led societies and outstanding pastoral support creates a friendly and dynamic atmosphere for all our students.