French and an Asian or African Language

Description: The BA Language Studies programme at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of a selected language from French, Chinese, Arabic, or another Asian or African language, combined with comprehensive training in linguistic theory, cultural studies, and practical communication skills. Designed for those passionate about understanding diverse cultures and enhancing their multilingual proficiency, this interdisciplinary programme emphasizes both language acquisition and intercultural competence. Students engage in advanced language courses that develop fluency, accuracy, and conversational skills, complemented by modules in phonetics, syntax, and semantics. The curriculum also includes cultural, historical, and socio-political contexts of the language regions, providing learners with a global perspective and critical understanding of linguistic diversity. Through immersive coursework, language laboratories, and study abroad opportunities, students gain authentic language use and cultural insights, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international business, translation, education, and more. The programme encourages active engagement with contemporary issues through seminars, projects, and research, fostering analytical and intercultural communication skills necessary for a globalized world. Graduates will be equipped with advanced language proficiency, cultural literacy, and analytical capabilities, making them valuable assets in international environments. The university's diverse academic community and innovative teaching methods create an enriching learning environment that supports students' academic and professional development, ensuring they acquire the skills required to excel in multilingual and multicultural contexts.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The structure of the programme allows you to study core modules in French language (written and oral), literature, culture, history, politics and society. You will have some flexibility throughout your degree to focus on areas you find particularly interesting. These opportunities increase as you progress.
You may also take modules offered by the School of European Languages, Culture & Society (SELCS), allowing you to study literature, film, art and culture from outside your subject area(s). This will enable you to focus on broad cultural movements, issues and approaches from an interdisciplinary perspective, drawing on the full range of specialisms within the school.

Your African or Asian language will be taught by the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS).

You will spend half of your third year in France or a French-speaking part of the world (for example, Québec or Martinique). You can choose whether to spend the term as a language assistant in a French school, as a student at a French-speaking university, or to undertake a work placement abroad.

You will spend the other half of the year in a country where the other language studied is spoken.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

French required.

GCSEs

English Language at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A total of 18 points in three higher level subjects including French grade 6, with no score lower than 5.

The financing studies for the university degree programmes at University College London (UCL) are structured to provide students with multiple funding options to support their academic pursuits. UCL offers a comprehensive range of scholarships, grants, and bursaries aimed at both domestic and international students. These financial aids are designed to reduce the economic burden of higher education and make accessing quality education more equitable. Scholarships at UCL are awarded based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria related to the student’s country of origin, chosen field of study, or other demographic factors. Many of these scholarships are competitive and require an application process during the admissions cycle. Additionally, UCL collaborates with external organizations and government agencies to provide funding opportunities such as research grants and student loans.

International students often benefit from special funding schemes mandated by their home countries, along with UCL international scholarships. The university also provides guidance and support services to help students identify suitable funding sources and complete application procedures. For students pursuing postgraduate degrees, UCL offers research funding, grants for conference participation, and subsidies for research materials. In terms of repayment, loans and bursaries usually have specific terms aligned with the student’s country of residence or citizenship. UCL emphasizes transparency and clear communication about the financial obligations, deadlines, and eligibility criteria associated with each financial aid option. Overall, the financial planning for students involves a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, grants, and, where applicable, external loans. The university continually updates its financial assistance offerings to adapt to changing economic conditions and to enhance access for diverse student populations.

The specified program at University College London offers an in-depth study of French language, literature, and culture, designed to develop students' linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding. The course typically includes modules on French grammar, oral and written communication, translation, and conversation practice to enhance fluency. Students are encouraged to explore French-speaking countries' historical, social, and political contexts through a wide range of literary works, films, and cultural studies. The curriculum often integrates opportunities for language immersion, including study abroad options or internships in Francophone regions, to provide real-world language experience. Additionally, the program emphasizes critical analysis, research skills, and intercultural competence, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, international business, translation, or academia. The program is suitable for students with varying levels of prior experience with French, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced modules. Academic staff are typically experts in French language studies, literature, and cultural history, many with international research experience. Students benefit from UCL’s extensive resources, including language labs, a large foreign language library, and collaboration with cultural institutions. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating aspects of history, politics, and media to offer a comprehensive understanding of the Francophone world. Regular seminars, workshops, and language practice sessions support continuous learning and skill development. With a strong focus on both linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy, graduates of this program often pursue postgraduate studies or enter professional fields requiring advanced language skills and cultural awareness. The program aims to produce globally competent graduates capable of engaging effectively with diverse French-speaking communities worldwide, contributing to international dialogue and understanding.