French
French is the official language in 29 countries and is spoken by some 274 million people, of which 76 million are native speakers.
The number of French speakers is expected to grow sharply, with population growth in Africa. French is a Romance language (derived from Latin) and shares its origins with Spanish, Italian and Portuguese. It has a long history as an international language of literature and scientific standards, and is a primary or second language of many international organisations including the UN, the EU, NATO and the WTO. Proficiency in French is essential for anyone considering a career in any international organisation. In 2011, French was ranked the third most useful language for business, after English and Mandarin. Speaking French will give you access to business opportunities in countries in Europe, Africa and North America.
French modules for 2026/27 are offered at Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels.
Only credit-bearing modules are offered in 2026/27, i.e., modules counting towards a student's undergraduate degree programme, where a programme allows students to take a credit-bearing language elective. Extracurricular, non-credit bearing language modules for students, staff or members of the public will not be offered in 2026/27.
French modules are year-long (over two semesters), they have 88 taught classroom hours and are worth 30 credits. Check your level or take a diagnostic test.
All language modules are taught in-person, on the Mile End campus.
The modules offered in 2026-27 are listed below. Times and rooms will be added as the information becomes available.
Please note that in some cases there may be changes to days/times or venue prior to the start of teaching. Any changes will be updated on this website.
Introductory French
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters
- Module Code: FRE4204 (30 credits)
- For: Complete beginners. Target exit level: A2.
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC
French I Intensive/ French II Intensive
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters. This module can be taken either as a Level 4 (first-year) or a Level 5 (second-year) module.
- Module Code as a Level 4 module: FRE4202: French I Intensive (30 credits)
- Module Code as a Level 5 module: FRE5206: French II Intensive (30 credits)
- For: Learners with level A2. Target exit level: B1.
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC
French I
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters
- Module Code: FRE4200 (30 credits)
- For: Learners with A-level in French or CEFR level B1. Target exit level: B1+.
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC
French II
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters.
- Module Code: FRE5202: French II (30 credits)
- For: Learners who have taken FRE4200 (French I) OR FRE4202 (French I Intensive) or have an equivalent language level (CEFR level B1+). Target exit level: B2.
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC
French III
Two weekly sessions, over two semesters.
- Module Code: FRE6202: French III (30 credits)
- For: Learners who have taken FRE5202 (French II) or have an equivalent language level (CEFR level B2+). Target exit level: C1/C1+.
- Schedule: 22 weeks (21st September 2026 – 16th April 2027)
- Hours: 88 classroom hours plus 212 hours independent study
- Class times: TBC