University of York

What you'll study

This joint honours degree brings together modules in education studies with progressive French language, literature and culture. In the early years you will take foundation education modules that examine learning and development, curriculum design, sociology of education, and basic research methods. At the same time you will follow a French pathway that develops oral fluency, written accuracy and cultural awareness through language classes, translation practice and options in francophone literature, media or linguistics.

The programme normally includes a full year abroad in a French-speaking country, taken as a period of study at a partner university or as a work placement in a French-speaking school or organisation. During the year abroad you will consolidate language skills, take academic courses in French, or gain practical experience in educational settings.

On return from the year abroad you will complete advanced education modules such as educational policy and practice, inclusion and special educational needs, and a supervised research project or dissertation that can be framed around bilingual education, comparative policy, or an applied topic linked to your year abroad. Final-year French modules typically include advanced language options, specialist translation, and studies of francophone culture, enabling you to achieve a high level of linguistic and intercultural competence.

• Core education topics: learning and development, curriculum studies, sociology of education, research methods and ethics
• French pathway: language tuition (all skills), translation, literature, francophone culture and linguistics
• Year abroad: study at a partner institution or a work placement in a francophone setting
• Final-year project: independent research dissertation or applied research in education or language
• Optional modules: comparative education, bilingualism, digital technologies in education, contemporary francophone studies

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate both strong academic ability and substantial prior experience in French. Typical offers are at undergraduate level equivalent to mid-to-high A-level grades, although the University considers a wide range of qualifications and international equivalents. You will normally be expected to have studied French to A-level (or equivalent) or to show an equivalent level of language competence through testing or previous study.

In addition to academic qualifications, the programme looks for evidence of motivation for combined study in education and language, and readiness for a sustained period abroad. GCSE (or equivalent) passes in English and Mathematics are normally expected. Mature applicants and those with relevant vocational experience are welcome; admissions tutors will consider personal statements, references and any relevant experience when assessing suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates leave this degree with a combination of subject knowledge in education and high-level French language skills, together with international experience from the year abroad. Common post-graduation pathways include:

• Initial Teacher Training (e.g. PGCE) and classroom teaching, including MFL (modern foreign languages) teaching where additional subject-specific training is undertaken
• International education roles in NGOs, charities and educational consultancies
• Language-related careers such as translation, interpreting, publishing and localisation
• Policy, government and diplomacy roles where language and intercultural competence are valued
• Further study at postgraduate level in education, applied linguistics, TESOL or international development

The year abroad is particularly valued by employers for the independence, adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills it develops.

Why study at University of York

University of York offers a research-led Department of Education known for combining theoretical perspectives with applied study and strong links to schools and policy networks. The Languages programme benefits from an active School of Languages and Linguistics and a dedicated Language Centre that supports language learning at all levels.

York provides structured support for year-abroad placements through established exchange partnerships and placement advice, as well as careers and employability services that help translate your language and education skills into graduate opportunities. The collegiate campus environment and a broad programme of academic and extracurricular activities create a supportive setting for developing both specialist knowledge and the transferable skills sought by employers.