French Studies is the largest section of the Department of Modern Language. In total, we have around 600 students enrolled on our courses. We have 14 full-time lecturing staff (including two professors), three dedicated Language Instructors and four Colloquial Assistants.
Within French Studies, staff have diverse research interests and this means we are also able to offer a very broad syllabus. One of the great advantages of a degree in French Studies is that you can sample a range of subject areas and disciplines all within your degree programme: film studies, literature, politics, history, translation studies, cultural studies, sociology, and even a dash of economics find their way into our modules at various points. Additionally, French Studies does not only entail the study of France. Our students have the opportunity to study the history, politics and culture of France, then to apply that knowledge in order to consider the role of French culture and politics in Europe and internationally. If they wish, students can study French in a more global context through a range of Francophone options focusing on Africa, Canada and the Caribbean.
In addition to the practical language work, the modules we offer generally fall into three broad areas or ‘strands’. Options on French cinema cover everything from early black and white films, to la nouvelle vague to very contemporary - and controversial - releases. The Literature and Culture strand ranges from options in 17th century plays through to 20th century novels.
In the Modern France strand, we deal with political, historical, social and economic factors which help to explain why France is as it is today with a particular focus on 20th century history in the final year.As you move through the course, you are given more choice in the modules that you follow. Some of our students enjoy the breadth and plurality of the provision and choose options which are very different in character whilst others choose to focus more on areas in which they have a particular strength or interest.
Our French undergraduate degree courses
Joint honours combinations