BA (Hons) in French Studies and Linguistics, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This four-year combined degree offered by Lancaster's School of Global Affairs and the Department of Linguistics and English Language is designed to develop high-level language skills and a deep understanding of language, culture, and society. It includes an international placement in year 3, providing students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a French-speaking environment, either through studying at a partner university or completing a work placement. Beginners can start learning French from scratch with an intensive course, and the course aims to help students become truly fluent in French while gaining awareness of grammar, language construction, and intercultural communication. The program also emphasizes linguistic, communication, and interpersonal skills valued by employers, with professional relevance across numerous sectors such as education, business, advertising, and more. The curriculum includes a mix of core modules, optional subjects, and practical components like an international placement and dissertation.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster’s Department of Linguistics and English Language is highly regarded, ranked 3rd for Linguistics in the QS World Rankings 2024, making it one of the largest and most highly rated language departments worldwide. The course’s integration of language learning with cultural and linguistic understanding, combined with the unique international placement year, equips students with practical skills and intercultural awareness highly valued by employers. The opportunity to learn French from beginners and to develop near-native proficiency, alongside a broad understanding of linguistic principles, makes it ideal for those seeking diverse career options, whether in translation, teaching, research, or international business.

Specialisation

Students can study French alongside Linguistics, English Language, or other language sciences. The course offers modules in areas like Modern French culture, language variation, phonetics, discourse analysis, and translation. There are also optional modules focusing on contemporary issues, literature, film, and social identities within the Francophone world, allowing students to tailor their studies toward particular interests such as culture, politics, or linguistics.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need AAB at A level, including French or a comparable qualification in a foreign language, such as B in a language from the AS or GCSE grades. Other accepted qualifications include the International Baccalaureate with 35 points, BTEC DDD with evidence of language ability, and equivalent qualifications like Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers. The course requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component. There are no specific GCSE requirements, but overall academic performance and language ability are considered.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates will have developed valuable language, intercultural, and analytical skills applicable in various fields including education, business, translation, journalism, and international relations. The degree also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate research. The employability opportunities extend to international companies and organizations, leveraging linguistic awareness and intercultural expertise for careers in management, finance, advertising, civil service, and more. The program emphasizes practical skills and experience, including work placements and language assistantships, which significantly enhance career prospects.

FAQs

Can I start learning French from scratch?

Yes, the course offers an intensive program for beginners with no prior knowledge of French, enabling you to become proficient during your studies.

Is an international placement year compulsory?

Yes, the international placement year in year 3 is mandatory for students studying French and other languages, giving you real-world immersion and intercultural experience.