Course summary
This course combines the broad historical knowledge and well-developed research skills gained in a history degree with the in-depth cultural awareness and advanced linguistic skills that come from studying French language and Francophone culture. The course offers an enriching experience with exciting intellectual challenges and a wide range of options that will allow you to pursue your own interests.
French can be studied from beginners' level and post-A level (or equivalent).
You will join two large departments with researchers in a great diversity of fields and will be encouraged to develop expertise and research skills relevant to both disciplines while also considering the relationships between them. Both departments encourage strong synergy between research and teaching, resulting in a vibrant learning environment as staff incorporate new research into their classes.
You will follow a structured language course in French, as well as explore the richness of French and francophone history and culture, choosing from a range of units in literature, film, history, thought, politics, linguistics, and visual culture. Your third year will be spent abroad, where you will have the opportunity to explore historical issues in the distinct cultural and social context of a French-speaking country while studying or working. Those who choose to study at a university will be advised to select history-based options and those who opt for work placements will be encouraged to seek placements in the heritage sector. To find out more about studying abroad, visit the Centre for Study Abroad.
You will have the chance to explore the intersections between history and French independently through a historically minded dissertation in your fourth year, for which you will be required to use some sources written in French. The combined knowledge of history, language and culture will mean you are uniquely placed to foster and lead intercultural communication across national boundaries.
Teaching is delivered through lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, and one-to-one project supervision. Assessments may include presentations, essays, commentaries, exams, collaborative projects, debates, podcasts, video essays, and dissertations.
Our course will ensure you practise a range of skills, which will make you attractive to future employers in the globalised workplace and in the sector of your choice.
All modern languages students have access to our state-of-the-art Multimedia Centre. You can also access extracurricular activities such as talks by visiting speakers, societies, language cafes, student newspapers, and talent shows.