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Department of

Languages and Literatures

French

France

The French language is the vehicle for a rich culture and civilization. It is a humanistic, lively, modern language encountered not only in gastronomy, fashion, and travel, but also in industry (from aerospace to biotechnology to electronics), the sciences (from medicine and ecology to micro-biology), business, etc. As one of the official languages of both the United Nations and the European Union, it is a very useful tool in diplomacy and the political arena. French thinkers have traditionally been in the avant-garde of intellectual life, which makes a working knowledge of this language invaluable to scholars in all fields, just as it is indispensable for teachers, translators, writers, and diplomats.

For French majors, a major in another discipline, as well as at least a minor in another language, are recommended.

We highly recommend that students take advantage of our semester- or year-long programs in France and/or the third semester French in France summer course. Information is available in the Office of International Studies Abroad, Serra Hall, Room 315, or go to the International Center Online.