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French and Francophone Studies
211 Burrowes Building
814-865-1492
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The French and Francophone Studies major aims for three main goals: a high level of proficiency in the use of French as a second language; knowledge of the literatures and cultures of France and the French-speaking world from Africa to Europe, the Caribbean, and North America; and development of a career plan centered around French or a combination of French with other courses or majors.
The Department of French and Francophone Studies offers both bachelor of arts and bachelor of science degrees for its majors. Bachelor of arts students can choose between two options: “language and culture” or “language and literature.” Bachelor of science students can choose among three options: “applied French,” “French-business,” or “French-engineering.”
RELATED EXPERIENCES
Students are strongly urged to participate in one of the University's education abroad programs. Numerous opportunities exist to study for a summer, a semester, or a year in France, Belgium, Quebec, or Senegal.
CAREER DIRECTIONS
Students who combine an undergraduate French major with a major or minor in another field find that their career possibilities are enhanced and often more exciting. Many professional opportunities are available in the public sector (government agencies such as the Agency for International Development, the National Security Agency, and the Departments of State, Commerce, and Labor) as well as in the private sector (international aid, banking, travel industry, hotel and restaurant industry, and multi-national corporations). Some occupations in which French graduates are employed include arts dealer, foreign service officer, foreign trade administrator, import/export executive, immigration officer, intelligence specialist, international attorney, journalist, librarian, Peace Corps volunteer, physician, public relations director, teacher (bilingual), translator, and travel agent.
In addition, students who combine French with the necessary courses in education can qualify to teach in elementary and secondary schools. Students who intend to teach in the public schools should consult the College of Education for teacher certification requirements.
Graduate and professional schools are increasingly seeking students with high levels of proficiency in a foreign language. French provides an excellent background for students who wish to pursue careers in history, philosophy, film, comparative literature, economics, linguistics, medicine, psychology, political science, international business, corporate law, and the natural sciences.