French and International Media and Communications Studies

Communication defines us as human beings.
This degree gives you a chance to think critically about media and communication in your own society, globally and in a French-specific context.

International media and communications
Drawing on a range of approaches (such as sociology, communication theory, politics and cultural studies), you’ll explore areas such as:

• technology

• content

• impact

• economics

• history

• politics

• ethics

• sustainability

With the focus being on media theory and cultural history you'll develop critical skills in:

• media

• analysis

• cultural awareness

• industry engagement

French
You can start the degree with A-level French or as a beginner.

Whichever pathway you take you'll build your language skills to near-native competence by the end.

As well as building language skills you'll also get a full appreciation of the Francophone world through modules on:

• culture

• history

• politics

You will have the opportunity to spend your third year abroad in a French-speaking country. This exciting experience develops your communication skills and really helps you stand out to future employers.

Hollywood Internships programme
This course is perfect for a career in the creative industries. At Nottingham, you can gain valuable experience through internships, placements, and work opportunities. No more so though than with our prestigious Hollywood Internships programme, unique to Nottingham. Previous internships have involved:

• First-reading of incoming film and television scripts

• Collecting audience data and preparing evaluation reports

• Filming interviews with Hollywood veterans for the archive

• Training, masterclasses, professional lectures and panels

• Working front of house at special screenings and industry events

• Indicative partner organisations include A24, CAA, Disney, Warner, Paramount, Sony, Lionsgate, UTA, and WME.

Our partners, and the number and nature of the internships, change each year. Vacancies are advertised in the Autumn term for students in years two and above. These are highly competitive positions, and places are not guaranteed. Terms and conditions apply.

The internships are supported through the generosity of Peter Rice, Nottingham graduate and former Chair of Disney General Entertainment Content. The awards are competitive and open exclusively to our students.

You will divide your studies equally between French and media and communications.

In year one, for the Post-A level French route, you will receive a firm grounding in the structures of the language through the core language module. You will also take the core Introduction to French and Francophone studies module introducing you to the study of French linguistics, literature, politics, society and film. You will also choose further optional modules focusing on literature, French history and contemporary France.

For the Beginners' French route you will pursue a structured course in the language to take you from beginners’ to advanced level. You will also take core modules taught in English that introduce you to key areas of interest in the field of French studies.

In international media and communications studies you will be introduced to cultural and communications theories, and debates surrounding mass media and new media.

In year two, if you commenced your course with Post-A level French you will consolidate your French language studies to prepare you for the year abroad. You will also choose from a range of modules in French and Francophone literature, culture and society, history, politics, linguistics and film.

If you started year one as a beginner in French, Beginners' you will continue to work intensively on key skills in the French language in preparation for the year abroad. You will also take a core Introduction to French and Francophone studies module.

In international media and communications studies, you will explore issues around public relations, political communication and global media and news production. You will also receive specific research training in the area of culture, film and media in order to lay the foundation for your final-year dissertation.

Your third academic year is spent in France or a Francophone country doing a programme of studies in a higher education institution, working as an assistant in a school or on a work placement.

Your final year is spent back at Nottingham. You will consolidate the command of the French language obtained during your year abroad, as well as deepening your understanding of French literature, cinema and politics. Former beginners and post-A level students take the same French language classes, and graduate at the same level in French.

Your final year modules in international media and communications studies will allow you to explore the political issues arising from, among other things, cultural policy and media coverage of conflict. You will also undertake a dissertation project under the close supervision of a member of staff with knowledge of your chosen area.