Bachelor of Arts in French Studies

Admissions & Aid College of Arts & Sciences
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Bachelor of Arts in French Studies

What Will I Learn in the French Studies Major?

Expand your horizons with a major that takes your passion for language and cultural studies to the next level. As part of University of Portland’s French Studies major, you’ll not only work to achieve proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking the French language, but you’ll broaden your knowledge of French art, history, and literature, as well as your appreciation of the culture of France and the Francophone world.

Within UP’s French Studies major, you can expand your opportunities through:

  • In-depth and innovative courses in French phonetics, conversation, composition, and culture led by our dedicated faculty.
  • Immersion programs in Paris (6 upper-division credits), and internship possibilities in Nantes.
  • Immersion programs in Nantes and Paris (15 upper-division credits).
  • Hands-on undergraduate research experience along with local internship opportunities.

French Studies Language Track

University of Portland offers a French Studies Language track within the French major. This focus emphasizes language fluency and advanced grammar and conversation skills that will prepare you to communicate effectively in French-speaking countries, while at the same time deepening your knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the culture of France and the Francophone world.

French Studies Courses

Gain a comprehensive understanding of language, literature, and culture through your French courses at UP. Begin with foundational classes designed to build language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. As you advance, upper-division courses focus on topics such as cultural history, literary analysis and linguistics. You will learn to conduct independent research and develop strong skills in argumentation and scholarly writing as well as linguistic confidence and cultural insight through engaging courses and study abroad experiences. You’ll also explore relevant contemporary cultural issues like identity, migration, and globalization to further your knowledge of the Francophone world. Explore pathways to UP’s French major.

Degree Requirements

French Minor

Whether you’re pursuing a career in health care, business, education, or related fields, our French minor can elevate your bachelor’s degree and make you stand out as a candidate who can connect more deeply with French-speaking individuals. A French minor offers students the opportunity to gain strong language skills while exploring the literature, culture and history of the French speaking world. It complements many majors by adding an international dimension and a deeper understanding of global perspectives. Students develop strong communication and critical thinking skills, learn to communicate effectively in spoken and written French, and understand authentic materials from a variety of contexts. The program provides both intellectual enrichment and practical skills that enhance a student’s academic and professional profile.

University Core

Develop into a well-rounded professional through University of Portland’s 40-credit Core Curriculum, the foundation of your bachelor’s degree in French. These interdisciplinary classes support our Holy Cross mission to help you think critically, communicate clearly, and develop into a well-rounded individual primed for professional and personal success.

The Core

 

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More Than a Degree

Discover the hands-on learning, cultural enrichment, and professional opportunities you can access as a French Studies major at UP.

French Club

UP offers a multitude of student-run clubs and organizations to be a part of, with several dedicated to the exploration and celebration of international cultures. As a part of French Club, you’ll meet fellow students eager to learn about and enjoy French culture.

Study Abroad

All French majors are required to embark on six weeks of study in France during their time in the program. Enhance your French language skills by participating in immersive study abroad programs in cities like Paris and Nantes, and scholarships are available to help you experience diverse cultures and cultivate a new perspective on the global impact of language. Should a student be unable to study abroad, the department chair may approve a substitute language immersion experience.

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Holy Cross Tradition

Guided by University of Portland’s Holy Cross identity, mission, and values, our French Studies degree program fosters a sense of global citizenship and cultural understanding that will empower you to build connections and contribute to a more inclusive world.

The UP Difference

Discover what’s waiting for you at University of Portland.

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Undergraduate Students

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Undergraduate Minors

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Careers and Outcomes

With a bachelor’s degree in French Studies, you’ll gain linguistic and cultural competencies highly valued across various industries and essential in today’s interconnected world. Your fluency in French and understanding of diverse perspectives will make you a competitive candidate as you pursue a wide range of career paths.

Career Areas for French Studies Majors

Prepare to excel in roles that require clear communication, cross-cultural understanding, and a global outlook. Many of our French Studies majors accept positions in the following areas:

  • Business
  • Education
  • Health Care
  • Law
  • Public Policy
  • Social Services

Graduate Studies

A bachelor’s degree in French Studies also provides the background needed to continue your education in graduate or professional programs that span literature and cultural studies, education, linguistics, international business, and health care. With a graduate degree, you can advance your career opportunities and increase your potential for higher-paying positions.

Alumni Employers

From healthcare systems to international businesses, employers hire UP French Studies majors for their language proficiency and ability to bridge the gap between different cultures. These include:

  • Sage International School
  • World Concern
  • TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France)
  • Pacific University
  • FIJI Water

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Break Boundaries

Your passion for language and culture can open doors to boundless career opportunities and experiences where you can make a purposeful difference. University of Portland’s bachelor of arts in French Studies degree program prepares you for success, no matter what path you choose—take the first step on your journey today.

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