Courses

The diverse backgrounds and specializations of the French & Francophone Studies faculty yield a wide selection of courses about the history of Francophone cultures and literatures across the globe.

We teach the grand majority of our courses in French. Since most of them are highly interdisciplinary, you will analyze Francophone literature, film, and other media to understand real-world struggles. For example, you will explore different cultures' approaches to questions of class, gender, sexuality, race, and the environment.

Placement guidelines for language classes

What to expect in FREN classes: FAQ

What kinds of readings are involved in first- and second-year FREN courses? How much reading should a student expect to do per week?

Our elementary and intermediate language classes (FREN 101-202) require a few pages of textbook study every day. Our French-language freshmen seminars (FREN 100 and FREN 150) and our upper-intermediate language courses (FREN 210; 212; 305) assign short readings in advance of every class hour. For example, students might have to read a poem, or the lyrics of a song, or a few pages from a novel, comic book, or an excerpt from a secondary source. Alternatively, we might assign a film screening. All this work is done in French.

What sorts of assignments should a student expect in first- and second-year courses?

These courses feature a variety of assignments including grammar exercises; quizzes; reaction posts; oral presentations; podcasts and videos; creative work; group projects; short compositions or essays; final exams.

Beyond the required texts, do students need to purchase other course materials?

No. Students will not need to purchase course materials beyond the required course texts.

Are French House activities open to everyone?

Yes, French House activities are open to the whole campus. You generally sign up in advance, with some activities reserved for students at a particular linguistic level. A weekly calendar of events and sign-up sheets are automatically sent out via email to all students taking FREN classes.

Is there anything else that first- and second-year students should know?

1. Foreign language classes are very interactive. Students get to know each other well, often forming life-long friendships.

2. Plan ahead (especially if you are a transfer student and/or are planning to study abroad). Stop by your professor's office hours and get to know our faculty.

Is it hard to major in French & Francophone Studies?

It is not hard to major in French & Francophone Studies, especially if you start in FREN 210 or 212 your freshman year. Many or most of our students are double-majors, and they often use study abroad credits to complete their FREN requirements. Upon faculty approval, students can also take courses in other departments if the content is related to French & Francophone Studies.

More information

• Undergraduate Catalog: Course Listing for French & Francophone Studies
• Use the Dynamic Schedule or Open Course List to see which courses will be taught in upcoming semesters
• French & Francophone course archives
• First Semester Course Guide by Major