European Studies and French, BA, University of Leeds

Course content

A joint honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each single honours course, but you'll take fewer optional and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects. You'll study one of our Cornerstone modules in Year 1 to draw your two subjects together, and apply your knowledge and skills to a major research project in either subject in your final year.

European Studies 

In your first year you'll study core modules introducing you to political ideas and systems of government around the world. You'll build on this knowledge in the following year, when you'll study central government in the UK and policymaking in the EU, as well as choosing optional modules which span beyond European borders to the US, Asia and Africa. You'll broaden your reach in the final year, studying not just the relationship between Britain and the EU, but the EU's interactions with the rest of the world.

French 

You'll improve your language skills in your first year and be introduced to French culture and history. In the following year you'll develop this knowledge with further core language study and choose from a range of optional modules, before you spend your time abroad working or studying in a Francophone country. When you return, you'll refine your skills with advanced language classes and choose from further options on aspects of Francophone culture, history and the French language in professional contexts.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: ABB including A in French.

  • Career opportunities

    Studying for a Joint Honours degree allows you to gain an in-depth knowledge of two subjects, including proficiency in a major world language. As well as demonstrating that you're intellectually versatile, your degree will equip you with a wide range of skills across different disciplines that employers actively seek.

    You'll have good research skills, and you'll be able to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions. You'll then be able to communicate and defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing. In addition, you'll have strong research and organisational skills and be confident working independently or in a team. You will also have a strong understanding of cultural diversity, allowing you to work effectively with people whose backgrounds differ from yours.

    All of these qualities are very attractive to employers, and graduates have pursued careers across the globe that reflect the diversity of their degrees. They've gone on to be successful in education, the media, law, publishing, the civil service, business and finance and the charity sector to name a few. Many others have also pursued postgraduate study, including further training in language-based careers such as translating and interpreting.

    To find out more about graduate destinations in your subjects, please see the relevant Single Honours pages.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Residence abroad

    You'll spend your third year in France or another Francophone country, immersing yourself in local culture and cultivating your language skills.

    We have partnerships with a number of universities in France and Canada where you can decide to study the equivalent of your course alongside French students or take an intensive language course for learners of French. Alternatively, you can apply for a work placement with one of our partner companies in France, or set up your own placement. You can also work as a language assistant in a school under the British Council's programme.

    Whatever you choose to do, you'll gain a new insight into a French-speaking society as well as valuable experience of adapting to another culture. If you choose to work during your time abroad, you'll also return with work experience to increase your appeal to employers. For many of our students, it's the real highlight of their course.

    Read more about Residence Abroad in French

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.