For a complete description and requirements for the Major in French Language and Literature, French Studies, or the degree with honors in French, please Click here.
French Studies
The major in French Studies is an interdisciplinary program that provides students with the opportunity to acquire skills and knowledge embracing the cultural, historical, social, and political heritage of France and the Francophone world. The program allows for an individualized course of study involving work in several departments and the opportunity to study abroad.
Students electing the French Studies major should register with the French Studies faculty advisor during their sophomore year. At that time they should submit a feasibility plan that articulates their projected program.
The French Studies major consists of ten courses satisfying the following requirements:
- At least two courses in French language and/or literature above the French 103 level
- A senior seminar
- Electives: The remaining courses needed to complete the major must be drawn from at least three different departments and relate primarily to an aspect of the culture, history, society, and politics of France and the Francophone world. These courses will be selected in consultation with members of the Department of Romance Languages.
Appropriate electives might include:
- History 331 The French and Haitian Revolutions
- Religion 301 Psychology of Religion
- All courses in French literature and language above the 103 level.
In addition, students should take at least two non-language courses that are taught in French.
French Language and Literature
The French major seeks to provide training in literary and cultural analysis and linguistic expression through the study of selected texts from the French-speaking world. Emphasis is placed on the changes in form and subject matter from the early modern period to the contemporary era.
The major consists of nine courses above the 102 level. One of these courses must be the 400-level capstone seminar during the senior year. Students entering the major program at the 200-level may, with the permission of the Department, choose as part of their major program, one course in Art History, History, Philosophy, Comparative Literature or other subjects that relate to and broaden their study of French. Students entering the major program at a very advanced level may, in some cases and with the permission of the Department, include two such courses in their major program.
Working with the major advisor, the student will formulate a curricular plan that will ensure balance and coherence in courses taken. Such balance and coherence will be based on the above areas of literary and cultural investigation. Prospective majors should discuss their program with the major advisor by the end of their sophomore year. This is especially imperative for students who are planning to spend a part or all of their junior year in France. Inasmuch as all courses in French assume the active participation of each student in discussions conducted in the foreign language, regular attendance at class
meetings is expected.
