French languages courses in conversation, grammar, literature, and culture prepare students to communicate effectively in French and francophone cultures and to prepare for jobs of many kinds using their French proficiency.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:

French B.A. students will be able to:

   • demonstrate recognition of key grammatical features in the major time frames of present, past, and future. (Grammar)
   • demonstrate recognition of key cultural features and historical events and characters pertaining to French speaking countries. (Culture and history)
   • understand some main ideas and information from texts featuring description and narration though structural complexity may interfere with comprehension. (Reading)
   • demonstrate an ability to describe and narrate in paragraphs and meet most practical writing needs and limited social demands. (Writing)
   • sustain understanding over somewhat long stretches of connected discourse on a number of topics pertaining to different times and places. (Listening)
   • successfully handle most uncomplicated communicative tasks and social situations though limited vocabulary may elicit errors, hesitations, and unexpected circumlocutions. (Speaking)

Special Notes for Modern Language Majors and Minors

1. There are clear advantages to preparation in more than one modern language for students, particularly those intending to seek teaching certification. Interested students are encouraged to consult with the Chair of the Modern Languages Department at an early state of their program to learn about possibilities for flexibility in earning graduation credits within one area of concentration.
2. The Department of Modern Languages requires a minimum grade of 2.0 in all courses counted toward the major and the minor.
3. The Department encourages language majors to seriously consider taking a term or year of study abroad. Immersion in another language and culture intensifies learning. Many such opportunities are available to non-majors and majors.

Recommended Coursework Outside the Major

A major in languages complements and is complemented by many other disciplines. Departmental advisers will help to match course choices with life and career objectives.