European Studies (Humanities) — French

European Studies (Humanities) — French at the University of Kent offers students an in-depth exploration of French language, culture, history, and society within the broader context of European integration and identity. This programme is designed for students passionate about understanding the complexities of European history, politics, and cultural diversity through the lens of French society. Throughout the course, students engage with a variety of modules that cover both linguistic proficiency and cultural awareness, enabling them to develop advanced language skills alongside a critical understanding of France's role within Europe. The curriculum combines language learning with studies in French literature, film, history, and politics, fostering a well-rounded perspective on contemporary and historical issues affecting France and the European continent. The programme emphasizes intercultural understanding, critical thinking, and academic research skills, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, cultural institutions, translation, diplomacy, or further academic study. Students have opportunities for language immersion, cultural excursions, and internships, which enhance their practical skills and employability. The University of Kent's vibrant academic community and excellent resources, including libraries and language labs, support students throughout their studies. Graduates of this programme will emerge with a sophisticated knowledge of French language and culture, an understanding of European integration processes, and the skills necessary to navigate diverse cultural environments and professional contexts related to European and French affairs.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline You are advised to apply as early as possible Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 28 September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS
Credits Total Kent credits: 480
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

Teaching & Assessment

Most of the modules involve a combination of lectures, seminars, contact with a native speaker and individual study in our computer-assisted language learning laboratory.

Modules taken at Stage 1 are assessed either by 100% coursework or a 50:50 combination of coursework and examination. At Stages 2 and 3, depending on the modules you select, assessment varies from 100% coursework (extended essays or dissertation), to a combination of examination and coursework, usually in the ratio 50:50.

Programme aims

The specific aims of French as a subject are:

• To provide a sound grounding in the French language in all its aspects, through extensive reading in French and through the use of French as spoken and written medium.
• To immerse you in Francophone Culture by enabling you to spend one year in a Francophone Country. In most cases you will go abroad to participate in an Exchange in France or Switzerland, to work as a language assistant in a French School or in the Kent Regional Office in Brussels.
• To develop a critical awareness of the broad canon of French Literature from the 17th century to the 21st century as well as of the role of French Cinema and French Linguistics in the development of Contemporary French Culture.
• To train you in the field of translation from and into the target language.
• To provide a gateway to related thematic studies comprising various bodies of knowledge and methodological approaches.
• To provide teaching which is informed by current research and scholarship and which requires students to engage with aspects of work at the frontiers of knowledge.
• To provide a means of access to intercultural awareness and understanding.
• To recognize and reward excellence at different stages through the award of prizes.
• To prepare those who choose to take the French Business Language courses for the Chambre de Commerce de Paris Examinations.
• To contribute to widening participation in higher education by offering a wide variety of entry routes.
• To provide opportunities for the development of personal, communication, research and other key skills appropriate for graduate employment both in industry and in the public sector.
• To develop general critical, analytical and problem solving skills which can be applied in a wide range of situations

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

• French Language.
• French Literature from the 17th to the 21st century.
• French Linguistics.
• French Cinema.
• French Theatre.
• Francophone Autobiography.
• French Postcolonial Studies.
• Francophone Presence in the World.
• French History.
• Critical Theory.

Intellectual skills

You gain the following intellectual abilities:

• Apply the skills needed for academic study and enquiry.
• Evaluate information critically.
• Synthesise information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding of the subject.
• Utilise problem solving skills.
• Utilise communication skills for the cohrent expression and transfer of knowledge.
• Analyse, evaluate and interpret a variety of types of evidence in a critical manner.
• Study and reach conclusions independently.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-specific skills in the following:

• Communicate effectively in French.
• Develop reading speed in French.
• Demonstrate detailed knowledge and effective understanding of the various structures and registers of French.
• Translate accurately and efficientl into and from the target language.
• Analyse critically a variety of texts be they journalistic, historical or literary.
• Gain an appreciation of cultural diversity.
• Ability to work independently in a Francophone Business environment
• Develop skills in these three related areas: a) reception (listening and reading), b) production (speaking and writing) and c) mediation between at least two languages.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in the following:

• Communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals using a variety of means.
• Evaluate their own academic performance.
• Utilise problem-solving skills in a variety of theoretical and practical situations.
• Accurate and effective note-taking and sumarising skills.
• Library and bibliographical research skills.
• Techniques for using French language source materials.
• Take responsibility for personal and professional learning and development.
• Manage time and prioritise workloads, think and perform under pressure.
• Capacity for teamwork.
• Leadership abilities.
• Work creatively and flexibly
• Deploy a range of Information Technology skills effectively, such as word processing text with footnotes, basic formatting, using e-mail, searching databases and text-files, navigating the world wide web

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

• A level ABB

• GCSE

C in a modern European language other than English

• Access to HE Diploma

The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)

The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate

34 points overall or 16 at HL including a modern European language other than English 4 at HL or 5 at SL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to support eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2013 financial support package includes a fee waiver and cash bursary, as well as additional funds on your Kent account to help with accommodation, food, books and other living costs. Find out more on our fees and funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created a new scholarship, The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages.

The European Studies (Humanities) — French programme at the University of Kent offers students an in-depth understanding of French language, literature, culture, and history within the broader context of European integration and international relations. The programme is designed to develop both linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy, enabling students to engage critically with European issues while mastering advanced French language skills. The curriculum combines language modules with interdisciplinary courses covering European politics, cultural studies, historical developments, and contemporary societal challenges facing European countries, particularly France.

Students undertake language modules aimed at achieving high levels of fluency in French, including grammar, conversation, and translation. Alongside language studies, they explore French and European literature, from classical to modern works, fostering an appreciation of literary styles and themes that have shaped European cultural identity. The programme emphasizes intercultural understanding, encouraging students to compare French cultural practices with those of other European nations.

Practical skills are developed through activities such as debates, presentations, and writing assignments, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, translation, international business, education, or cultural management. As part of the European Studies focus, students examine key issues such as European Union institutions, policies, history, and their impact on member states, including France. International exchanges and study abroad opportunities are often integral to the curriculum, providing experiential learning in French-speaking environments and enhancing linguistic and cultural competence.

The programme aims to produce graduates who are not only proficient in French but also possess a comprehensive understanding of European affairs, history, and intercultural communication. Employability is enhanced by a multidisciplinary approach, combining language skills with analytical and critical thinking.

Graduates of the programme often pursue careers in diplomatic service, international organizations, media, education, translation, or cultural sectors. They are equipped with a deep cultural awareness, language expertise, and knowledge of European political and social issues, making them valuable assets in various professional contexts related to France and Europe at large. The degree typically spans three years for full-time students, with possibilities for combined study options or placements designed to deepen practical experience and cultural immersion.