French and Francophone Studies

French and Francophone Studies: Major, Minor

To study French is to join an extensive community of speakers and learners of the French language scattered over five continents. The French curriculum is designed to provide you with linguistic proficiency as well as an understanding of French and Francophone literatures and cultures.

Through extensive course offerings, you will develop linguistic proficiency, hone analytical skills, and gain a critical perspective on global affairs, notably those of the French-speaking world. Language instruction is complemented by practice sessions (practica) led by a French Foreign Language Assistant (FLA). Cocurricular events will allow you to perfect your language skills and enhance your appreciation of the cultures of various French-speaking countries. You can deepen your learning experience by studying abroad at one of the College’s immersion programs in France and Cameroon.

Program Highlights

The French and Francophone Studies program offers an array of rigorous and innovative courses, all conducted in French. Language courses range from elementary to advanced levels. Upper-level courses include offerings in the following subject areas:

  • French and Francophone Literatures
  • Arts & Cultures from the French-speaking World
  • French-Language Cinema
  • Race, Gender & Sexuality Studies
  • Translation 
  • Linguistics
aerial photo of the central square of the historic heart of Dijon, France
Study Abroad

Enhance your French language skills by studying abroad in Dijon or Strasbourg, France or in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

sign on window that reads cinema
Opportunities

See your French studies come to life beyond the classroom through regular cocurricular programming.

foreign language assistants posing on stairs
Foreign Language Assistants

Practice your French in small practice sessions led by French Foreign Language Assistants.

French and Francophone Studies News

Katie Bowles '18 overlooks the Poas Volcano in Costa Rica while studying abroad. Bowles will be serving in the Peace Corps in Costa Rica for the next two years.
For and With Others: 17³Ô¹ÏÍø Students Choose the Peace Corps for Post-Grad
Many students come to 17³Ô¹ÏÍø wanting to make a difference in the world. Four graduating seniors — Katie Bowles, Marie Therese Kane, Clare Orie, and Colleen Brady — are leaving the Hill ready to do just …
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17³Ô¹ÏÍø Takes Top Seat in Ranking for Long-Term Study Abroad Participation
For yet another year, the 17³Ô¹ÏÍø has been ranked No. 1 among baccalaureate institutions in the United States for long-term study abroad participation by the Institute of International Education. According to its report, 133 17³Ô¹ÏÍø students …
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17³Ô¹ÏÍø Academic Conference 2017 to Showcase Student Work
As the academic year nears its end, more than 350 students will present the results of their independent work in the performing and visual arts, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences at the 2017 Academic Conference, taking place across campus …