French, with English and Spanish, is one of the three languages used most widely across the globe. It is the first or second language in about forty countries, including some of Australia s nearest neighbours in the Pacific. A knowledge of French will give students access to rich cultural traditions in art, philosophy, architecture, music, literature, film, fashion and cuisine. The main aims of the Honours year are: To enable students with an adequate background in French to pursue further study in one specialist area in more depth than is possible with a pass degree To enhance students capacity for independent research and to acquire research skills appropriate to their area of specialisation. To train to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career. Achievement of first class or IIA honours allows direct entry to a PhD program.

An Honours year in French focuses on developing and consolidating the knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on utilising those skills in a sustained and purposeful way by conducting independent research. Apart from content knowledge, employers and professionals value both the reliability and capacity for independent work, and the skill at writing substantial reports which are demonstrated by successful completion of Honours.