Program Overview

Designed to develop cross-cultural awareness and to foster international understanding, the French and Francophone Studies (FFS) Program adds an exciting dimension to the traditional liberal arts curriculum. The French and Francophone Studies minor differs from the French minor in two respects: its interdisciplinary nature and its greater flexibility in accommodating students’ areas of interest. The FFS minor answers the needs of students with a strong interest in cultural issues in general and in French and Francophone history and society in particular. By allowing students to take coursework in English, the FFS minor allows them to benefit from the many courses in various departments that focus on France and the Francophone world.

The FFS Program is an interdisciplinary, integrated program that understands the term “French” in its broadest sense. It thus reflects the diversity of the field of French studies, which explores varied cultures of Francophone expression: Canada, the Caribbean, North and West Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Reaching beyond disciplinary and national boundaries, the program encourages students to choose from a large selection of courses in the humanities, the arts, and the social sciences. In this way, it provides both a meaningful course of study and an outstanding preparation for graduate or professional schools and for careers in international business and finance, law, journalism, diplomatic service, nonprofit and other international organizations, health, teaching, or the arts.

Undergraduate Policies

For undergraduate policies and procedures, please review the Undergraduate Academics section of the General Bulletin.

Program Requirements

The minor requires 17 credit hours. Students entering at the 200-level of language competence take:

At least 6 credit hours should be taken in disciplines other than FRCH. Students entering at the 300-level of language competence take five courses at the 200- and 300-levels in FRCH and from the approved list. At least 3 credit hours should be in courses from FRCH taught in the French language, and at least 6 credit hours should be taken in disciplines other than FRCH.