French and Theatre and Performance, BA, University of Leeds

Course content

In your first year, you'll study compulsory modules in performance which introduce you to the core questions of this field, both critical and practical. This will allow you to develop your skills in analysing text and performance, and to participate in a group performance project. You'll also take language classes that combine the study of grammar, oral classes, and independent learning. These skills are routinely approached through the study of a particular aspect of French culture or history. A Cornerstone module will equip you to analyse audio-visual culture and help to draw your subjects together.

You'll develop this base of knowledge and skills at Level 2. Core modules will encourage you to think about the historical context of performance (both text and event) and enable you to improve your French oral and written skills. Optional modules will allow you to broaden your knowledge with study of the production, consumption and reception of performances, and of Francophone cultures and societies.

In addition to a compulsory language module in your final year, you'll have the opportunity to study optional modules in small groups with specialists in a variety of areas, many of which focus on performance. On the performance side of your studies, you'll also undertake the compulsory Independent Research Project, which allows you to carry out research on a performance-related topic of your own choice.

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

    This programme will equip you with an understanding of performance, its contexts and uses as well as practical skills for the stage, along with knowledge of a world language. It will also equip you with valuable skills that will serve you well in a wide range of careers.

    You'll have excellent presentation and communication skills, both verbally and in writing. You'll be confident working in a team or independently. You'll also be able to think critically and creatively about a situation from different perspectives and have a high level of cultural awareness.

    This new programme aims to give you the skills to succeed in a wide range of careers in the UK and further afield. These may include writing, performing, production and directing, community arts work, education, the media, marketing, PR, events management, arts administration, teaching, dramatherapy or language-specific roles such as translating or interpreting.

    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 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 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 undertake a work placement with one of our partner French- speaking companies, 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 decide 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