BA French and History

French and History form a strong degree combination with many interconnected topics available. Students have the option of choosing from a range of culture modules within French Studies with a historical focus, ranging from the Middle Ages to the contemporary period. There will be plenty of opportunity to practice your language skills, especially in your third year, in which you are expected to study or work in a French speaking country. Why study this course? With many History module options relating to France through the ages, this pairing will deepen you knowledge of the country's past, culture and society, beyond more recent development. Along with the more analytical skills gained from studying History, you will acquire excellent French language skills. These you will have ample opportunity to put into practice in a year spent studying or working in a French speaking country. It can't be stressed enough how beneficial it will be to have a second language in a market that actively seeks to employ those who can contribute on a global scale. There are many routes you could follow and it will give you an edge should you choose to find work in fields such as publishing and international business, as well as in the cultural and heritage industries. After the course A global market demands language skills: three-quarters of UK businesses say they are looking for modern language skills (CBI Education and Skills Survey, 2012). In 2012, 90–95% of graduates from the Department of Modern Languages and European Studies were in work or higher-level study within six months of graduating, and of this number, 84% were in graduate-level jobs. Likewise, Reading French and History graduates are highly valued by a wide range of employers thanks to the broad set of transferable skills developed during the programme. French Studies graduates have gone on to work in a wide variety of careers, many of which put their linguistic skills to practical use in the UK or overseas. Recently these have ranged from translating, teaching and research (doctorates at Oxford and Queen Mary, University of London) to financial services (HSBC, Zurich Insurance), telecommunications (Vodafone), marketing, the fashion industry (Chanel), the international art business (Christie’s) and regional development (the Design Wales Project). History graduates have pursued careers in all areas of the private and public sectors, including journalism, publishing, TV production, web design, accountancy, law, banking and management. Recently, Reading History graduates have been employed by the Ministry of Defence, Barclays, the Ministry of Justice, Red magazine, the Armed Forces, universities, schools, local authorities and the NHS.