Course description
Requirements for the Major
A major in French is achieved by the completion of the following requirements, in addition to the General Education and electives required for a degree:
Required Distribution Courses
A minimum of seven (7) FRN course credits above FRN 103
Required Collateral Courses
ENG 387 and another foreign language through the 103 level
Exploring the Major
Students interested in French as a major should complete or waive FRN 101 and FRN 102 during their first year. Those who have had previous experience with French should contact the faculty in French for a waiver interview, which will determine their appropriate entry-level course. Also helpful would be early enrollment in FRN 140, which is taught in English and may be taken at the same term as introductory and intermediate courses. Students also should begin taking courses in another foreign language during their second year.
Admission to the Major
To be admitted to this major, students must complete FRN 103 or a higher-level course taught in French with a grade of C or higher.
Course Sequencing Considerations (in order to complete degree requirements within eight terms)
Whether starting with FRN 101 or at a higher level, prospective French majors should begin taking FRN courses as soon as possible. Students interested in a major in French should complete or waive FRN 101 and FRN 102 during their first year. Unless waived, all introductory and intermediate courses (FRN 101, 102, 103) must be taken in sequence. After completion of FRN 103, students may take FRN 300, FRN 310, and courses above FRN 310 in any order. Majors usually study abroad during their third year or during the Fall Term of their fourth year.
Proficiency Requirements for Retention in and Completion of the Major
A grade of C or higher in each required French course, and in each collateral course is required for continuation in the major. Majors must meet all departmental requirements, including a B- average (2.8 GPA) in French, in order to receive financial support from the Department to study abroad. In addition to specified course requirements, each student must satisfy departmental standards for written and oral communication.
Other Considerations or Recommendations
Acceptance into the major neither requires nor guarantees a term abroad. Nevertheless, French majors strongly are encouraged to study abroad during a Fall or Spring or Fall term in a French-speaking culture program approved by the Department, which advises students in selecting the proper program and applying for scholarships. A significant number of French graduates have experienced the many advantages of combining a major in a language with a variety of other majors. Students considering combining a French major with a major or minor in another subject should plan how they will meet the requirements for the other major or minor while still spending a Fall or Spring term studying abroad.
