French and International Relations

French and International Relations is a degree that pairs the study of one of the world's most widely spoken and diplomatically significant languages with a systematic examination of how the international political system works. French opens access not only to France but to a diverse global community of French-speaking nations across Africa, the Caribbean, the Pacific and beyond, as well as to the cultural, literary and intellectual traditions that French carries. International relations examines how states, institutions and other actors interact across borders, covering political theory, geopolitics, conflict, cooperation, international law and global political economy.

At Queen's University Belfast this four-year full-time degree reflects the genuine connections between French and international politics, combining linguistic and literary inquiry with political analysis to illuminate political and historical developments, including those in the contemporary world. Students can begin their studies in French as a beginner, and the programme includes a period of residence in a French-speaking country during the third year, which gives you the immersive experience essential for developing genuine fluency alongside your academic studies.

Graduates from French and International Relations degrees are well placed for careers in diplomacy, the civil service, international organisations, journalism, the charitable and development sector and European business. The combination of French fluency and geopolitical understanding is valued in any professional context involving France, the EU, francophone Africa or international affairs more broadly. Postgraduate study in international relations, French studies, global politics, international law or diplomacy is a natural continuation for those wishing to deepen their expertise.