BA French Studies and English Language

This programme provides a thorough degree-level education in both subjects. There is special emphasis upon the use of the English language in its social context, and upon the application of knowledge about language to problem solving in the contemporary world. The French part of the programme aims to produce graduates who are competent communicators in French, who have a sound critical understanding of French and Francophone culture, and who have acquired a range of skills to underpin their life-long development. The programme is distinctive in situating theories and descriptions developed in linguistics within an interdisciplinary and applied perspective. Why study this course? This joint honours degree provides you with a solid grounding in the core mechanics and usage of language, and will enable you to write and speak fluently in French. Through this course you will become confident and highly skilled in written and spoken French. You will master the fundamental elements of the language, to the point where you will graduate with a near-native command of it. We’re proud of our small language classes, often led by native speakers. Direct access to expert staff for help and feedback ensures you develop your language skills to the best of your ability. Our Department of English Language and Applied Linguistics has been a leader in the field for 50 years. Our method of applying the theory you learn to real-life situations will help you to understand that theory – and also show how the subject is directly relevant to many key issues in 21st-century society and the workplace. After the course By the time you graduate, you will be able to write and speak fluently in French – an immensely useful skill to have given that there is currently a great shortage of well-qualified linguists in the UK. The experience of studying or working abroad also distinguishes you from non-language graduates, providing evidence of self-reliance, adaptability and enterprise. You will also develop transferable skills in analysis of language data, problem solving, team working and presentation skills. As a result, you will be suitably equipped for a wide range of career paths in areas such as teaching, publishing, marketing, advertising, media and law. Our graduates have an excellent record of gaining employment or progressing to further study. Recent graduates have gone on to careers ranging 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) regional development (the Design Wales Project).