L ear n m o re at val p o ed u/ f rench
French andFrench Studies
W hy Study French at Valpo?
The Valpo French program emphasizes language acquisition through the exploration of French and Francophone culture, history,and society Students develop strong proficiency in speaking,writing,and comprehension through immersive coursework and interactive language exercises,focusing on building a solid grammatical foundation while expanding vocabulary and refining pronunciation Beyond language,students encounter Francophone cultures through literature, history,art,and contemporary global issues by analyzing key cultural movements,historical events,and artistic expressions that have shaped the French- speaking world Through the study of French language and culture,students develop critical thinking skills and cross- cultural awareness
FREN CH MI N ORS
Students who have studied French prior to coming to Valpo complete the traditional 17- credit French minor that begins with intermediate French level coursework Students who begin their study of French at Valpo have the opportunity to complete the 18- credit French st udies minor, which can include credits from beginning French
Both minor tracks prepare students for careers in international relations,global business,education, and the nonprofit sector
I N DI V I DUA L I ZED MA J OR I N FREN CH STUDI ES
Students interested in pursuing French beyond the level of a minor have the option of completing a 30- credit individualized major in French st udies Students who spend a semester abroad in France may count those credits toward this major program,along with courses from other disciplines relevant to French studies The interdisciplinary nature of this program thus allows students to integrate perspectives from political science,economics,history, English,and other humanities disciplines to enrich their understanding of French and Francophone culture
Valpo?sFrenchprogramhasgivenmeopportunitiesI never expected.I foundedValpo?sFrenchClub,ledcampus-wide cookinglessons,studiedabroadinNantes,France,and completeda teachinginternship.Theseexperiencesnot only deepenedmylanguageskillsbut alsoprovidedinternational work experiencethat will shapemyfuturecareer.Asa historymajor,livinginanother culturehasbroadenedmy perspective,andbeingfluent inFrenchhasexpandedmy career possibilities.I?mforever grateful for theamazing communitythat Valpo?sFrenchprogramfosters."
W hat Can You Do with aFrench Minor?
A French minor opens doors to diverse careers in today?s globalized world Proficiency in French enhances opportunities in international business,diplomacy,and foreign service,where multilingual communication is highly valued It also supports careers in education,translation,and interpretation,as well as roles in nonprofits and humanitarian work focused on international development and cultural exchange.No matter the field,studying French strengthens critical thinking, cross- cultural competence,and global awareness ? key assets in competitive job markets
EX PERI EN TI A L L EA RN I N G
A ND STUDY A B ROA D
The French program emphasizes hands- on learning through unique opportunities that bring language and culture to life
Int ernat ional St udy ? Travel and study in France through three distinct programs tailored to different academic interests:
- IESin Nantes for a broad cultural and linguistic experience
- La Rochelle International Business School for students pursuing global business studies
- L'Université de Technologie Compiègne for students pursuing engineering
Int eract ive Project s ? Engage in research and creative endeavors,such as coding Renaissance cookbooks and developing promotional webpages,blending historical and digital literacy
Local Immersion ? Experience Francophone culture firsthand by visiting a French bakery to learn pastry techniques,attending cultural events in Chicago,and participating in conversational meetups with students on campus
These opportunities allow students to apply their language skills in real- world contexts,gaining invaluable cultural and professional experience along the way
EX TRACURRI CUL A R ACTI V I TI ES
Beyond the classroom,students can take part in a range of extracurricular events designed to enhance their cultural experience,including:
- French film screenings
- Cheese tastings
- Art field trips to Chicago
- Cooking lessons at a local French pastry shop
- Weekly conversation tables
French Student Financial Support
Because the French program is supported by the Duesenberg Chair in French Language and Culture,substantial funding for student scholarships and other awards is available These funds help support study abroad experiences,cultural events,and academic initiatives that enrich students' learning beyond the classroom Scholarships make studying French more accessible,ensuring students can fully engage in language immersion and experiential opportunities Through this financial support,the program fosters a vibrant,inclusive community dedicated to academic excellence and cultural exploration Learn more at valpo edu/ french/scholarships
Beforecollege,I never imaginedmajoringina language,but nowtheFrenchprogramhas reallyimprovedmycollegeexperience.It?sgivenmemanypersonal andprofessional life opportunities,includinga languageimmersionprograminFrance!I?vemet lifelong friendsandmentors,andhavesucha wider outlook onlifebothculturallyandpersonally."
