French and Italian B, 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 options and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects.

You'll develop your French language skills and take intensive Italian language classes in your first year, while you'll also be introduced to the history and culture of France and Italy. To help you bring together aspects of your two subjects, you'll study one of our unique Cornerstone modules. You could also try one of the many other languages we offer - from Spanish and German to Punjabi, Turkish and Thai - or take discovery modules from elsewhere in the university.

You'll continue with language classes in your second year, while choosing from a range of optional modules introducing you to aspects of Francophone and Italian life. You can choose from a remarkably wide range of options which cover, from a French perspective, literature, theatre, cinema, history, politics, immigration, francophone studies and linguistics. Italian modules reflect the diversity of our research interests - not only will you study a core of language and of literary texts, but you'll be able to explore Italian history and society, art, cinema, fashion and design.

At the same time, you'll prepare to spend a term of Year 2 and the whole of the following year abroad, immersing yourself in local culture.

When you return to Leeds for your final year, you'll enjoy even more choice in your optional modules and take advanced language classes. You'll also have the chance to work on skills like translating or interpreting. You'll also apply the critical skills you've developed to a dissertation on a topic of your choice, which you'll research independently.

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: AAB including A in French.

  • Career opportunities

    A degree in French and Italian equips you with a range of valuable skills. You'll be fluent in two important European languages, and you'll have a real awareness of cultures where these languages are spoken. Those qualities will open doors to a wide range of careers, and you'll also acquire important transferable skills that are valuable to employers.

    You'll be an independent researcher who can think critically and analytically about complex information, them communicate and defend your ideas effectively both verbally and in writing. You'll also have skills such as teamwork and presentation, and spending a year abroad will demonstrate that you are adaptable and self-reliant. Because you've juggled two different subjects, you'll also have excellent organisational skills.

    As a result, graduates have gone into a range of careers. Many have pursued language-based roles such as translating or interpreting, or gone onto postgraduate training in these areas. Others have succeeded in areas such as business and finance, education, journalism, law, publishing, advertising and marketing and the charity sector.

    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

    You'll spend a term of Year 2 and the whole of the following year in Italy and France. It's the perfect opportunity to surround yourself with another culture while sharpening and refining your language skills every day. For many of our students, it's the highlight of their degree.

    You'll spend a term in France, completing a work placement or studying a dedicated language course at a French university. Then you'll spend a year in Italy, where you can work or study but may also decide to teach English. Whatever you decide, you'll gain a new perspective and valuable experience.

    Read more about French Residence Abroad

    Read more about Italian Residence Abroad