English and French

English and French at Aberdeen brings together two major literary and linguistic traditions in a programme that benefits from the university's strong reputation in both English studies and French language and literature. English literature at Aberdeen encompasses a broad European and global range, reflecting the university's strength in research and creative writing. French adds an equally rich strand, covering language and literature, history and culture from the medieval period to the present day.

You will study English and French from a European historical and contemporary perspective across five years full time, including a full year spent studying in a French-speaking country, which develops genuine linguistic immersion and cultural understanding alongside your academic work. This sustained engagement with language in context is one of the most valuable aspects of the programme, building the kind of fluency and cultural literacy that classroom study alone cannot fully provide.

Graduates of English and French are prepared for a wide range of careers across the creative arts, media, business, tourism, education, publishing, journalism, translation, diplomatic and international organisations. The combination of strong analytical writing skills, literary and cultural breadth, and genuine French language competence is valued by employers in any professional context requiring communication across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Postgraduate study in English, French, comparative literature, translation, creative writing or European studies provides a natural further route for those seeking specialist or research-focused careers.