French

French is one of the world's great languages, carrying a literary, philosophical, and cultural tradition that has shaped European and global intellectual life for centuries. It is spoken natively by over 80 million people and is an official or working language of numerous international organisations, including the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, and NATO. Studying French to degree level means developing high-level communicative proficiency alongside a deep engagement with the literature, history, cinema, and cultural debates of France and the wider Francophone world.

At the University of St Andrews this four-year MA (Hons) develops your language and communication skills to a high level of proficiency through the study of French and Francophone language, literature, and culture. The degree includes a year abroad, which is essential at this level for developing the fluency and cultural immersion that genuine expertise requires. You will engage with texts, films, and cultural debates spanning several centuries, developing the analytical and linguistic tools to engage with French and Francophone culture with depth and authority.

The typical entry tariff of 232 points reflects the highly competitive nature of entry to a language degree at St Andrews.

You will develop high-level language skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening, alongside a rich contextual understanding of the Francophone world. The research, analytical, and communication skills that sustained language study develops are broadly transferable.

Graduates pursue careers in translation and interpreting, international organisations, diplomacy, journalism, teaching, business, publishing, the cultural sector, and law. Postgraduate study in French, translation, European studies, or international relations is a natural continuation for those wanting to develop specialist expertise.