BA (Hons) in English Language and French Studies, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

This four-year degree combines studies in English Language and French Studies, offered jointly by the Department of Linguistics and English Language and the School of Global Affairs. The program is highly ranked, being 3rd in French and Iberian Languages and for Linguistics in the 2025 Good University Guide. The course aims to help students become fluent in French, exploring France’s history, culture, politics, and social background. It also delves into how the English language functions, studying lexical, grammatical, and phonetic aspects. A significant feature is the year spent abroad, either studying at a partner university or through a work placement, which enhances intercultural sensitivity and language proficiency. The final year focuses on developing French to advanced levels (CEFR C1/C2) and offers specialization options, including a dissertation. This course provides linguistic, communication, and interpersonal skills highly valued in many careers, from education and media to business management.

Why this course is highly recommended

This joint degree stands out because of its strong reputation, being 3rd nationally in French, Iberian Languages, and Linguistics. It’s provided by one of the largest and most highly rated language departments, with a focus on fluency, cultural understanding, and intercultural communication. The program’s unique year abroad, either through studying or work placements, provides real-world language practice and cultural immersion. The combination of linguistics and English Language studies prepares students with analytical, communication, and intercultural skills that are valued globally. Graduates benefit from a broad skill set applicable across numerous sectors, including media, education, business, and international organizations.

Specialisation

Students will study core modules in both English Language and French Studies, with options to focus on specific areas such as linguistics, media English, language and identity, or contemporary French society. The program offers flexible optional modules, including advanced topics like discourse analysis, psycholinguistics, phonetics, and cultural studies. The course also emphasizes practical skills, including language acquisition, translation, and intercultural communication. For those interested, options include beginners or advanced level modules, allowing tailored focus according to prior knowledge and career interests.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need AAB at A level, including French or another foreign language at AS grade B or GCSE grade 7/A. Other qualifications accepted include the Access to HE Diploma, BTEC Extended Diploma, International Baccalaureate with 35 points, Scottish Highers, T levels with Distinction, and appropriate GCSEs. The course also requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component, for English language proficiency.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this degree develop valuable skills in data analysis, language use in context, intercultural communication, and research. They often go into journalism, media, translation, teaching, speech therapy, public relations, management, and speech technology. Some pursue postgraduate studies or professional training in languages or linguistics. The degree’s emphasis on communication, intercultural competence, and analytical skills makes graduates highly employable in international and multicultural settings across sectors like education, business, media, and government.

FAQs

What language options are available from beginner to advanced levels?

You can study French from beginner (A2) or advanced (B1) levels, with intensive language modules aimed at improving your skills. Similarly, modules exist for Chinese and other languages, with tailored pathways for beginners and those with prior knowledge.

Is a year abroad compulsory?

Yes, the international placement year, where you study or work abroad, is a mandatory part of the program for French and other language students. It typically lasts at least 8 months and helps deepen language skills and cultural understanding.