BA French and International Relations

Develop a deeper understanding of the world in which we live with BA French and International Relations.
Join our friendly and dynamic Department of Languages and Cultures, which offers the opportunity to study in a lively, multilingual community with staff and students from all over the world. We offer a flexible and supportive approach to learning which allows you to tailor your degree to your interests, including the opportunity to learn other languages.
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, 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.
A wide range of optional modules in French and francophone culture, history, literature, theatre, politics and film enhance your learning, and provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the country. These include modules covering topics such as The Making of Modern France, How to Think in French, Introduction to French culture, France during La Belle Epoque. You also have the option of studying comparative modules, which will enable you to study Europe's development since 1945, and unity, nationalism and regionalism across the continent – a great way to complement your study of international relations.
In international relations, you will acquire a strong grounding in fundamental elements such as political ideas and international relations theory. You will spend most of your teaching time in small teaching groups, allowing you to interact directly with staff and add your own voice to the discussion. You will have the opportunity to study a wide range of specialist core and optional modules, which cover topical issues such as European political integration, international terrorism and the Middle East crisis. The course also delivers innovative modules in which you can take part in United Nations and Middle East simulations and gain an insight into the political process.
You will spend up to a year in a French-speaking country, studying at a university, working on a placement, or as a British Council language assistant in a school. This enables you to immerse yourself in the culture and develop your language to a high level. The core language module in the second year will prepare you for your time abroad, equipping you with the skills and knowledge required to work and live in a different culture.
There is also the option to study for a degree in modern languages, inclusive of a year abroad, while at the same time training to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), a qualification that will enable you to teach in secondary schools in England and Wales after your degree.