French, German and Spanish are taught on our two flagship programmes, BA Modern Languages and BA Modern Languages, Translation and Interpreting, as well as a range of Joint Honours options. These include Business Management, English Literature, History, International Relations, and the recently-introduced Combined Honours which allows you to select modules from across the School of Culture and Communication.
French and Francophone Studies
French has been taught at Swansea since the University’s foundation in 1920 with Professor Mary Williams, believed to be the first woman to hold a chair in any academic subject in the UK, being our first Head of Department.
There are five permanent members of staff in the French section:
- Dr Greg Herman
- Dr Kathryn Jones
- Dr Jo Langley
- Mrs Ariane Laumonier
- Dr Sophie Rouys
Our French team blends dynamic language instruction with rich research expertise. We deliver high-quality French language teaching, complemented by introductory, specialised, and postgraduate modules in translation and professional interpreting. We also bring research-led insights from modern French film, literature, poetry, cultural traditions and history, with specialisms in travel writing, memory, conflict, gender, postcolonial studies, minoritised languages and world cinema. Collectively, the team ensures students gain linguistic fluency, intercultural awareness, and analytical depth grounded in current research.
As a student of French at Swansea, you will become part of a welcoming and supportive community that extends far beyond the classroom. The student-led French Society offers regular socials, film nights, cultural celebrations, and trips, creating an inclusive space to meet others who share an interest in the French language and francophone cultures. Weekly Language Café sessions give you the chance to practise speaking in a relaxed, friendly setting with native speakers and peers. These activities will allow you to grow in confidence, forge friendships, and strengthen your sense of belonging - whether you're a beginner or a fluent speaker. Together, they create an environment where language learning becomes part of your everyday life.
For many students, the Year Abroad is a transformative experience which is a real highlight of studying French at Swansea, not least as you can tailor this experience according to your individual needs and preferences: some students choose to teach English through the British Council scheme, others choose to study at one of our partner universities. It’s also possible to gain valuable experience through a work placement in a French-speaking country. Whether in a classroom, lecture hall, or professional setting, you will immerse yourself in the language and culture, developing independence, confidence, and global awareness. Overall, this year represents a unique opportunity to live abroad, experience both language and culture firsthand, meet new people, and gain experience that will really make you stand out from the crowd!