Program Overview

French and German BA

The French and German BA program at the University of Birmingham offers students the opportunity to study two of Europe's most popular languages in tandem. On this course, students will study language and culture, improving their language skills alongside their cultural knowledge of France and Germany.

Course Overview

• The program is designed to help students achieve 120 credits per year, which equals about 40 hours of learning each week.
• This includes lectures, seminars, workshops, independent study, revision, and assessments.
• Students will be assessed in different ways to suit each module, with methods varying but potentially including coursework, group or individual presentations and projects, exams, reports, or computer-based assignments.

Course Highlights

• Top 10 in the UK for German, according to the Complete University Guide 2026.
• Top 20 in the UK for French, according to the Complete University Guide 2026.
• Study language and topics of cultural significance, designed and delivered by expert teachers and researchers.
• Enjoy focused academic contact, with competitive contact hours taking place in small groups, encouraging active language learning through engagement with cultural material.
• Live and study in one of the most culturally mixed cities in the UK, making global connections on the course and through student societies.

Real-life Experience on the Year Abroad

• One of the most exciting elements of any degree in Modern Languages is the opportunity to spend the third year abroad, perfecting language skills, developing a thorough appreciation of another culture, and acquiring transferable skills.
• The University will help organize the time away, and students will be supported throughout by their Year Abroad Coordinator, as well as academic and wellbeing teams.

Course Delivery

• Study at the University of Birmingham and learn from world-class experts—authors of key works and leaders with global teaching and research experience.
• Lectures provide an insightful, expert introduction to key topics and guidance to support reading and assessments.
• Seminars are small group discussions where students share and test ideas with their academic tutor and peers, helping to understand topics better and build confidence in sharing thoughts.

Support During Studies

• Personal Academic Tutors guide and support students throughout their studies.
• Wellbeing Officers help with extensions, disabilities, extenuating circumstances, or personal challenges and connect students with further support on campus or elsewhere.
• The Academic Writing Advisory Service offers tutorials, workshops, and support in structuring arguments and developing an academic voice.
• The Student Experience Team offers research opportunities, cultural, intellectual, and social activities to enhance the university experience.

Module Information

• The modules listed for this program are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
• The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year.
• Students must take 60 credits in French and 60 credits in German, including compulsory core language modules and further credits appropriate to their level (beginners or advanced).

Year 1

• Discover: Personal, Academic, and Professional Development in Modern Languages (20 credits).
• Students must take 60 credits in French and 60 credits in German.
• French and German modules include language and culture studies, with options for beginners or advanced levels.

Entry Requirements

• A Level: ABB, with a grade B required for any advanced language.
• IB: 6,5,5, including 32 points total, with a Higher Level or equivalent in the modern language to be studied.
• BTEC: BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, plus a B at A level in the required subject/s.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any band, or equivalent qualifications.

Fees and Scholarships

• The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, examination, and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
• For domestic (UK) students, the fee is £9,535 per year for 2026/27.
• Scholarships, grants, and bursaries are available to help with the cost of studies.

Application Process

• Applications are made online through UCAS.
• The standard application deadline is 14 January 2026 for September 2026 entry.
• View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.

Career Opportunities

• Modern Languages graduates build skills that are useful in workplaces all over the world, preparing them to succeed in various careers after university.
• Graduates have gone on to secure roles such as Translator, Director, Founder, and Communications Manager, working for organizations like the BBC, House of Commons, and Warner Bros. Discovery.
• The University's Careers Network offers support to help students identify their options, develop their skills, and gain access to opportunities that propel them towards their career goals.

Related Courses

• Modern Languages BA

Student Experience

• The University of Birmingham offers a range of accommodation options, a vibrant campus life, and support services to ensure students have the best possible experience.
• Students can enjoy the city's unique history, cultural events, and social activities, making the most of their time at university.