Why Study French at Exeter?

French at Exeter is ranked 9th in the UK for world-leading research*. With over 500 undergraduates it is the largest constituent part of the Department of Modern Languages; more than 25 members of staff are involved in the delivery of language and culture modules. The University has invested in a series of new appointments in French over recent years. We are therefore an enthusiastic and energetic department whose internationally recognised research feeds directly into a diverse and stimulating teaching programme. We have high rates of student satisfaction and were ranked in the UK’s top 10 for overall satisfaction in French in the National Student Survey 2008. *RAE 2008 based on percentage of research categorised as 4* (world-leading)

Our basic philosophy is to ensure wide academic coverage with maximum choice. You can select from a wide variety of modules in various areas of French Studies: cultural studies from the middle ages to the present; literature and the visual arts; film; linguistics; gender and sexuality studies. Many of these areas may be new to you, but we find that our students rise exceptionally well to the challenge of broadening their intellectual horizons. The flexibility of French Studies at Exeter means that you can decide to pursue a broad-based programme of study that includes modules taken from several of the areas mentioned above, or that you can specialise in a specific area of study. Starting at Level 1, and within the constraints of the timetable, you can create your own programme of study from the wide range of option modules available.

As far as language work is concerned, you will be expected to become proficient in various spoken and written communication skills, including translation. Some of your classes will be with our team of native French-speakers and you will also have access to the state-of-the-art facilities in the newly refurbished Foreign Language Centre. As part of your studies, you will have the opportunity to spend a period of residence abroad in a francophone country, perhaps as an EU-funded Erasmus student, as an English-language assistant, or in another type of work placement (for which Leonardo funding might be available). We have also recently introduced a video-conferencing link with a French university as another way of providing additional oral practice for students.

The system of personal tutoring with Modern Languages is designed to ensure that everyone receives individual attention and advice throughout their time at Exeter. Each member of staff has a number of ‘office hours' every week during which they are always happy to meet with students. Finally, you will be able to join the French Society, organized by undergraduate students, and enjoy the varied programme of talks, films, drama and social activities that they arrange.

All programmes in the Department of Modern Languages make use of the University's e-learning software, WebCT, which gives students online access to learning materials. The materials themselves are password-protected, for copyright reasons, but you can view a representative selection of WebCT material from across the Department. 

Student Feedback (from questionnaires and messages sent to staff):

• ‘I love the contemporary aspect of this module - all the books have been really interesting and thought-provoking. It has been really well taught and there has been lots of time to air your own ideas and opinions. A really excellent module [...] and one that I would recommend to anyone.'

• ‘I just wanted to send you a short note just to say how much I've enjoyed this module. As you said, what a great bunch of students but I do believe you played a big part and brought out the best in us.'

• ‘The lectures were very interesting. [...] I loved the class.'

• ‘The seminars I found very useful, as it was a way of comparing your thoughts and views on topics covered in lectures with other students, and where anything that seemed unclear could be explained. The lectures were always very clear, well organised and prepared.'

• ‘I would never have thought I would find the period in question that interesting to be honest, but I now feel that it is valuable and fascinating. We learn an incredible amount in a short length of time and this shows that the lecturer does not underestimate our capabilities.'

• ‘It is the department's great support at difficult times such as this which reminds me exactly why Exeter has been such a fantastic place to study!'

• ‘Thank you so much for your teaching and encouragement over the past four years. I am so glad I was able to study your modules.'

• ‘I just wanted to thank you again for all of your help that you have given me throughout my four years at Exeter. I was absolutely delighted with my results and all I can say is that I owe my final grade to the dedication and support of an excellent French department. Finally, thank you once again for your advice and support during my year abroad [...] your encouragement was invaluable through the entire period.'

• ‘I have enjoyed the scope of this module. Learning about a different era of French history every week has been very interesting. The format of ‘taster lectures' helps to provide us with more informed choices of what we may want to study in more detail for module choices later in our course. So it is a great way to start French in year 1.'

• ‘The translation work has been very good. There was a pack to work through which helped, and going over the work in class helped me to see where my failings lay.'

• ‘The aspect of lectures in French has been a tremendous help to my French in every way. The seminars have been organized so that they clarify and develop (to a degree almost determined by use) the points made in the lecture. Students are encouraged and praised for their participation.'