French BA
Study of the French language, culture, history, and society, developing advanced language skills alongside deep cultural and global understanding.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Want to learn French
Are interested in European culture
Enjoy languages and communication
Want global career opportunities
Are culturally curious
Popular Career Fields
Education
International Trade & Commerce
Government & Public Sector
Journalism & Publishing
Your Personality Might Be:
Language lover
International Trade & Commerce
Linguistically skilled
Francophone interest
What is it?
What is a French degree?
A French degree focuses on developing high-level proficiency in the French language while exploring the cultures, histories, politics, and literatures of French-speaking countries.
You’ll study spoken and written French in depth, alongside modules on France and the wider Francophone world, including Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and Canada.
French degrees are both academic and practical, combining language mastery with cultural insight and strong communication skills valued by employers worldwide.
Why study French?
If you enjoy languages and want internationally transferable skills, a French degree offers excellent career flexibility.
It helps you:
Achieve advanced fluency in a major global language
Understand French and Francophone cultures in historical and modern contexts
Develop intercultural awareness and global perspectives
Build strong communication, analytical, and translation skills
Access international career and study opportunities
French is widely used in diplomacy, business, international organisations, and education.
Course Summary
Study of the French language, culture, history, and society, developing advanced language skills alongside deep cultural and global understanding.
What you'll study
Most French degrees include:
You’ll learn through:
Language classes and conversation practice
Lectures and discussion-based seminars
Translation and writing workshops
Cultural analysis of texts, film, and media
Independent reading and research
Immersion during a year abroad
Teaching is highly interactive and skills-focused.
Skills You'll Gain
A French degree builds a wide range of valuable communication and academic skills, including:
Advanced language proficiency – enabling confident professional communication in French.
Intercultural communication – supporting work in international and multicultural environments
Analytical and critical thinking – through cultural and textual analysis.
Critical and analytical thinking – supporting interpretation of texts and contexts.
Written and verbal communication – in both English and French.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
French degrees strongly encourage practical experience, especially during the year abroad.
Opportunities may include:
Teaching assistantships in schools
Internships in international businesses or NGOs
Translation or language support roles
Tourism, hospitality, or cultural organisations
Media, marketing, or communications roles
Universities provide support in securing placements and preparing for work abroad.
Work Experiences & Placements
French degrees strongly encourage practical experience, especially during the year abroad.
Opportunities may include:
Teaching assistantships in schools
Internships in international businesses or NGOs
Translation or language support roles
Tourism, hospitality, or cultural organisations
Media, marketing, or communications roles
Universities provide support in securing placements and preparing for work abroad.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels (or equivalent), typically including French for advanced routes. No prior knowledge of French required for beginner routes.
Personal Statement Tips
Explain your interest in the French language and culture.
Mention travel, cultural experiences, or independent learning.
Show enthusiasm for living or working abroad.
Highlight communication skills, curiosity, and adaptability.
What to do Next
Practise French regularly through media, podcasts, and reading.
Research year-abroad options and partner universities.
Explore joint honours combinations that suit your interests.
Consider careers where languages offer a competitive advantage.
Wider Reading
French Made Simple – Arnold & Jackson
A clear guide to improving grammar and written French.The Discovery of France – Graham Robb
An engaging cultural and historical exploration of France.L’Étranger – Albert Camus
A classic French novel offering insight into language and philosophy.How to Sound French – Paul Taylor
A practical and entertaining guide to spoken French and culture.The Francophone World – Patrick Corcoran
An introduction to global French-speaking cultures.