BA in Music with French, Royal Holloway University of London

Egham,

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

Royal Holloway offers a BA in Music with French that combines 75% music study with 25% French language modules. The course allows students to tailor their studies to personal interests, exploring traditional, modern, and world music through various texts, practices, and cultures. Practical skills in composition, music technology, and performance are also a focus. Studying at a department ranked third in the UK for research quality, students gain access to excellent facilities like studios, recording spaces, and performance venues. The course includes core modules in French language proficiency and music analysis, history, ethnomusicology, and technology, with opportunities for optional modules. Located close to London, students benefit from rich French cultural resources and strong industry networks through staff connections with Wigmore Hall, BBC Proms, and Royal Opera House.

Why this course is highly recommended

Royal Holloway’s Music with French degree stands out because of its strong research reputation and excellent facilities, offering students practical skills in composition, performance, and music technology. The course’s integration of language learning with a broad music curriculum provides a unique dual focus, ideal for students interested in both musical and cultural expertise. Close industry links and proximity to London open pathways for networking and career development, making it a great choice for students who want a comprehensive music education with a French cultural component in a vibrant, supportive environment.

Specialisation

The course combines Music (75%) with French language (25%), allowing students to focus on music in conjunction with developing fluency in French. Students explore a wide range of musical genres, from traditional to contemporary, alongside core French language modules, which cover speaking, writing, and cultural understanding. The curriculum includes modules in music analysis, history, ethnomusicology, and technology, all designed to deepen musical expertise while ensuring high-level French language proficiency by graduation.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

29.03L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need A-levels with grades between ABB and BBB, with a requirement for A-level Music or Grade 7 Music Theory. Students without these may be eligible for an Intensive Theory entry, which requires a GCSE A/7 or equivalent and performance at Grade 7 level. French A-level isn’t mandatory but if taken, a grade B is required. Other qualifications like the International Baccalaureate, BTEC, and Scottish Highers are also accepted, with specific requirements for each. English language proficiency is needed, with IELTS at 6.5 overall and 7.0 in writing.

English language test

TOEFL

IELTS

6.5

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Career prospects

Graduates from this course have gone on to work as musicians, composers, performing arts teachers, technicians, publishers, managers, lawyers, and policy makers. The degree’s focus on practical skills, industry contacts, and cultural knowledge opens pathways into diverse areas of the music sector, both in the UK and globally. Transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking also prepare students for careers beyond music work.

FAQs

What is the duration of the course?

The course lasts for three years when studied full-time.

Can I study French if I am a beginner?

Yes, the course includes modules designed for beginners to develop fluency in French by the time you graduate.