French Major
The French program seeks to cultivate students' understanding and awareness of the cultures of the francophone world through the study of language, literature, and other forms of expression (film, political discourse, art, music, etc.). In the best American liberal arts tradition, we combine the study of a specific discipline (francophone language, literature, and culture) with the development of broader skills of critical analysis and verbal expression. By engaging with another language and culture, students gain a better understanding of themselves and the world in which they live and acquire practical skills that they can apply in a variety of professional contexts. Indeed, many of our students choose to combine the French major with a major or minor in politics, international relations, or business.
Study Abroad Programs
Roughly 4 out of 5 of our majors choose to study abroad. We strongly believe that spending at least a semester studying abroad in a reputable academic program in France or another francophone country is the best way to acquire a practical knowledge of the French language and francophone world. CUA currently offers study abroad programs in Paris, Nantes, Arles, and Rabat (Morocco).
Any CUA undergraduate student may apply for our study abroad programs. Majors may also apply for a Crisafulli Travel Grant to support a portion of their studies. The study abroad programs are especially designed for juniors, but qualified second-semester sophomores may apply. All study abroad applicants must comply with the following:
- Have a current minimum GPA of 3.0 in courses taken in the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, with an overall minimum GPA of 2.5;
- Have completed two 200-level courses or have the equivalent language proficiency; and
- Follow the application process for the selected program and consult with their major advisor, the French Study Abroad Advisor, and CUAbroad.
Internships
Majors are encouraged to take advantage of the various internship opportunities in the DC area. In the past, students have found internships with the French Embassy, French corporations, and the European Union office.
Requirements
French Major
Required courses: French 203 or 209, 204, 300, 301, 360, 452 and 6 (six) other courses, which can include one other 200-level course and any courses at the 300-500 level, with a maximum of 2 (two) courses taught in English.
Students should consult with the French Academic Advisor, Dr. Anamaria Banu (banu@cua.edu), to identify combinations of courses that best suit their needs and interests.
French Minor
Required courses: a total of 6 (six) courses, including 203 or 209, 204, one other 200-level course, and any courses at the 300-500 level, with a maximum of 2 (two) courses taught in English.
Students should consult with the French Academic Advisor, Dr. Anamaria Banu (banu@cua.edu), to identify combinations of courses that best suit their needs and interests.
*** N.B. Native speakers of French (francophones) may not enroll in any 200-level course or in 330. Upper-level literature and culture courses are open to qualified native speakers with permission from the instructor.
