(Full time) 2024 start
French BA
Overview
This course provides you with the skills to become a versatile, inter-culturally aware and professional graduate able to speak, write and read French with confidence. You’ll combine language studies with exploring culture and society, learning about the diversity of French, to equip you for working with native speakers. You’ll enrich your study, and tailor your course, by choosing from optional modules in translation and interpreting, the conflicts of history, visual culture and cinema.
Whether you are learning as a beginner or have a more advanced understanding of French, you’ll study the language of the media, commerce and cultural expression. You’ll gain a thorough knowledge of the global language, which is enhanced with a year abroad in a French-speaking context (in places such as Belgium, Canada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Senegal and Metropolitan France).
Additional highlights
French staff are involved in the following specialist groups:
- Centre for Immersive Technologies | University of Leeds
- Centre for Translation Studies | School of Languages, Cultures and Societies | University of Leeds
- Centre for World Cinemas and Digital Cultures | School of Languages, Cultures and Societies | University of Leeds
- Centre for World Literatures | School of Languages, Cultures and Societies | University of Leeds
- Correspondance générale de Benjamin Constant | School of Languages, Cultures and Societies | University of Leeds
- Institute for Medieval Studies | University of Leeds
- Writing1900
Specialist facilities
Our Language Zone gives you access to free learning resources, including space for personal study, language learning software, and video, audio, books and magazines. You'll also have access to our translation computer labs equipped with specialist software and our interpreter training booths to explore different career options.
With four libraries on campus, you’ll find space for study, group work and research. The world class Brotherton Library holds a wide variety of archival and printed material in its Special Collections – valuable assets for your independent research. You’ll have access to free classes and workshops where you can learn how to use them.
Our Martin Thomas Translation Labs feature state-of-the-art computing facilities for translation studies as well as Interpreter Training Suites – ideal if you are considering a career in interpreting.
Course content
Year 1
You’ll study core modules covering a thorough foundation of language skills to improve your spoken and written knowledge of the French language and of French and Francophone culture. You’ll tailor your study by taking optional modules taught by colleagues who are specialists in cinema, cultural studies, fiction, history, politics, society, translation and visual culture.
Year 2
As you progress, most of your classes will be taught in French and you’ll spend more time working independently to explore your own ideas and build your critical skills, supportes by a module on writing and research skills.
Year 3
After gaining a strong grasp of the language and culture in Years 1 and 2, you’ll further enrich your French language skills by spending a year working or studying in France or another Francophone country. This provides you with a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in local life and absorb the language by putting your developing abilities into practice.
Year 4
In your final year, advanced language modules will refine your skills, while you enjoy a wide choice of research-led optional modules on cultural and historical topics, or you can focus on French translation and interpreting.
You’ll complete an independently researched Final Year Project that showcases your skills in critical thinking, research and writing. Examples of recent project titles include: 'The Gilets Jaunes movement: A new form of class struggle?', 'Addressing and redressing discrimination against Black women in French cinema', 'The uses of cross-dressing in French medieval literature', ‘Women Artists in French Museums’, 'Arabic Translingual markers in French advertising', 'La Mac-Do-couscous-steak-frites society. An analysis of French cuisine's response to globalisation', ‘Women’s autofiction in the Maghreb’, ‘Tennis in France and the class system’, ‘French Literary Prizes’.
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to
time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules
omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the
best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be
provided.
For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read BA French in the course catalogue.
Learning and teaching
We use a range of inclusive teaching methods to meet the needs of students with different learning styles. Your lecturers are all experts in their fields, so you’ll be able to benefit from their knowledge in lectures, workshops, small group seminars and tutorials. You’ll build your language skills in practical and highly interactive classes, and as you progress, some modules may be taught in your target languages.
Independent learning is an important element of your studies, allowing you to build your research skills and think critically about the range of different sources you can access. We offer support on everything from choosing your modules to making the most of our excellent library resources. You’ll have regular opportunities to provide feedback on teaching, course content and what is working well and what can be improved. You’ll be introduced to a range of texts and participate in inclusive safe spaces for critically engaged discussions on sensitive topics (such as gender, race, sexuality, religion, and politics).
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
We ensure inclusive assessment by making sure you are assessed in a range of ways. We test listening, speaking, writing and reading through essays, exams, literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, digital projects, poster presentations and translation projects. You’ll regularly receive detailed feedback on your coursework, helping you to keep track of your progress.
We offer training and support to help you prepare for assessment and to equip you with the transferable skills you’ll need for your future careers. For example, we run extra classes on skills such as public speaking, structuring essays and exam technique.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: ABB
Where the post-A level language route is taken, a B grade in the language is required.
Where the beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.
Where an applicant is taking the EPQ in a relevant subject this might be considered alongside other Level 3 qualifications and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A levels, this would be BBB at A Level and grade A in the EPQ.
We welcome applications from mature students with Access qualifications, and from students with a wide range of qualifications.
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Access to HE Diploma
Pass diploma with 60 credits overall, including at least 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 credits must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher. An interview and a piece of written work may also be required. This course has additional subject specific requirements. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information.
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BTEC
We will consider the level 3 QCF BTEC at Subsidiary Diploma level and above in combination with other qualifications. Please contact the Admissions Office for more information.
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Cambridge Pre-U
M1, M1, M2.
Where the post-A level language route is taken, M2 in the language is required.
Where the beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.
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International Baccalaureate
34 points overall with 16 at Higher Level.
Where the post-A level language route is taken, 5 in Higher Level in the language is required.
Where the beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H2, H2, H2, H3, H3, H3.
Where the post-A level language route is taken, H3 in the language is required.
Where the beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
BB in Advanced Highers and AABBB in Highers or B in Advanced Highers and AAABB in Highers or AABBBB in Highers.
Where the post-A level language route is taken, B in Advanced Higher in the language is required.
Where the beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.
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Welsh Baccalaureate
The Welsh Baccalaureate is not typically included in the academic conditions of an offer made to you for this course. If you choose to undertake the Welsh Baccalaureate we would strongly encourage you to draw upon these experiences within your personal statement, as your qualification will then be taken into account both when your application is initially considered by the selection panel and again when reviewed by the admissions tutor at the time your A-level results are passed to us.
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Other Qualifications
European Baccalaureate: 75%.
Where the post-A level language route is taken, 8.0 in the language is required.
Where the beginner language route is taken, previous experience in language is not required.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds offer: BBC at A Level and pass Access to Leeds.
International
We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. Contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.5 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
Read our guidance about applying.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024
Fees
UK: £9,250 (per year)
International: £24,500 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
Career opportunities
Studying this course, you’ll gain expertise in an important world language, the experience of living abroad and a real appreciation of a fascinating culture. You’ll also develop important transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. You’ll be a strong communicator who can present and defend your views clearly, both verbally and in writing. You’ll have developed skills such as teamwork, research, critical thinking and analysis – and your independence and adaptability will be demonstrated by your year abroad.
As a result, graduates have gone on to work in journalism and the media, the charity sector, translation and interpreting, law, the civil service, the NHS, business and finance, marketing, tourism, education, design, cultural institutions and curatorship.
Others have studied for a postgraduate qualification to pursue translation-based careers or to continue to study French language and culture to Master's level, either for a PhD and career in academia or to further their knowledge.
We are committed to helping you achieve your career ambitions. You’ll benefit from bespoke support and opportunities in the School and the University.
Our experts in the award-winning University Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path, understand the opportunities available and the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions and meetings with our alumni.
The Union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year. Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests. They’re also a great way to develop your skills such as team working and leadership.
At Leeds, you can access advice to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we offer award-winning specialist support.
Careers support
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Residence abroad
You’ll spend your third year in France or another Francophone country, immersing yourself in local culture and cultivating your language skills.
Whatever you choose to do, you’ll gain new insight into a French-speaking society as well as valuable experience of adapting to another culture. For many of our students, it’s the real highlight of their course.
The three options are: studying at university; a British Council Language Assistantship; or Company Placement.
Study at a French university
You can choose to study from a range of modules at one of our exchange partner universities in France or Canada or you can take an intensive language course in France.
When studying abroad, you'll discover a new culture, develop your knowledge, improve your French language skills and make yourself stand out from your peers in the job market. You'll have access to support and advice before, during and after your study abroad year.
In your first and second year you’ll be able to network with returning students for first-hand advice about living in France, have meetings with the Residence Abroad team and access to online information before you relocate to France. We’ll be in touch with you during your year abroad and you’ll have support at your host university too.
On your return, we’ll ask you to share your experiences and make the most of your new and improved skills and experience.
You can choose to study from a range of modules at one of our exchange partner universities in France or Canada:
Canada
Université de Montréal
Université du Québec à Montréal
Université du Québec à Trois Rivières
France
Alliance Française Bordeaux
Ecole Supérieure de Commerce de Pau
University of Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand
Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3
Université Michel de Montaigne, Bordeaux
Université Paris 8
Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3
Université Sorbonne Nouvelle - Paris 3
Université d'Orléans
Université de Lille
Université de Limoges
Université de Lorraine, Metz
British Council
You can work as a language assistant in a school under the British Council’s programme: Where can I go as an English Language Assistant? | British Council
This highly popular opportunity allows you to spend nine months in metropolitan France, the French Caribbean or Africa (see British Council website for specific countries). Our students have recently worked in Metropolitan France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana and Senegal. You’ll be fully immersed in the French language, acquire vital work experience and become integrated into an established teaching community.
When preparing your application, you'll be able to network with returning fourth-year students to ask about opportunities, their experiences and general advice for finding the right placement.
Pay and holidays are generous, giving you the opportunity and means to manage your own time. This increases your ability to travel, indulge in tourism and pursue hobbies/interests.
Don't be put off by the fact that your job is to assist with the teaching of English. Working in English (for just 12 hours per week) will be beneficial to you as a linguist (as you will learn things about English grammar that you never knew!). Also, in many cases, your school(s) can act as a ready-made network of contacts. The British Council scheme is also open to final-year students after graduation.
Company placement
You can also take a work placement year with one of our partner French-speaking companies or set up your own placement.
If you decide to take a work placement year you’ll spend nine to 12 months in France or a French-speaking country. If you choose to work in France, the French Convention de Stage is for 6 months, so you'll either undertake two internships or combine a work placement internship and a study placement.
You’ll be provided with a list of current placement opportunities and the details of companies that have provided placements for students in the past. The University has links with a variety of organisations in the UK and overseas both in France and in French-speaking countries.
You’ll receive support and guidance from the School’s experienced Work Placement Officer, the Residence Abroad team and the University Careers Centre. You'll also network with returning fourth-year students to ask about opportunities, their experiences and general advice for finding the right placement.