French and Philosophy, MA (Hons)

Course summary

French is a major world language, spoken in many parts of Europe, Africa and the Americas. Together with the art and culture of the French-speaking (francophone) world, France's philosophical ideas have played a central part in shaping our modern civilisation. Studying French and Philosophy, which has been at the core of Western intellectual life for at least 2,500 years, helps us understand the contemporary world, as well as shedding light on the past. FrenchOver the course of our four-year programme, you will have the opportunity to acquire near-native fluency in French. You will also gain a broad cultural education and international perspective, something valued by employers worldwide. We will introduce you to the extraordinary richness and variety of the francophone world through the study of:

• literature and cinema

• political history and social movements

• philosophical ideas

Our courses cover material from the Middle Ages to the 21st century and include specialist options taught by leading experts in key disciplines, including post-colonial studies and gender studies. PhilosophyStudying philosophy allows you to think about some of the great philosophical questions in a clear, disciplined and systematic manner. Philosophy:

• introduces you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present

• illuminates the connections between diverse areas of human experience

• makes you more aware of the assumptions that form the basis of your beliefs

Why Edinburgh?As a world-leading historic, festival and capital city, Edinburgh is the ideal place to study a modern language in its cultural context.Philosophy has been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583 and French since 1894, making it one of the first European languages to be offered at Edinburgh. Studying over four years enables you to choose courses, including from other disciplines, that match your own interests, expertise and employability needs. You can, for example, opt to take pre-honours classes in politics or economics as part of your programme.We are unique in Scotland in offering students a full academic year abroad within the four-year honours programme, regardless of whether you spend the year studying or working.

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