French
College of Arts and Sciences
- Offered as:
- Major
- Minor
Overview
The study of French not only provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of using the French language, but also develops intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, and appreciation of the humanistic context of international cultures.
[+] Strengths of the program
- The department offers specialized language courses for students in business, the social sciences, engineering, and the sciences.
- WSU’s program includes the study of literature, film, and traditions of foreign cultures to deepen students’ intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and comprehension skills.
- The Language Learning Resource Center in Thompson Hall provides foreign language students access to Windows and Macintosh computers, as well as two HD TVs with video and DVD players.
[+] Requirements and core courses
—Bachelor of arts in French
Majors and prospective majors are expected to spend at least one semester abroad, living in the target culture and enhancing their fluency in the language. Many accredited study-abroad programs are available; students should work with their advisors in the selection of a program.
Note: Students preparing to teach should visit the Department of Teaching and Learning online or see its information in the Course Catalog for certification requirements. Those who intend to major in foreign languages and education should begin the study of the major language in the first year; studies toward any language taken as a minor should start no later than the beginning of the second year.
Students should consult the General Catalog for course planning and must meet course requirements as outlined in the General Catalog in order to graduate.
CORE COURSES
Fren 101—First Semester French
Fren 102—Second Semester French
Fren 105—Elementary Conversation (optional)
Fren 203—Third Semester French
Fren 204—Fourth Semester French
Fren 205 and 305—Intermediate Conversation I and II (optional)
Fren 306—Intermediate Reading and Translation
Fren 307—Intermediate Speaking and Listening
Fren 308—Intermediate Grammar and Writing
Fren 407—Advanced Speaking and Listening
Fren 408—Advanced Grammar and Writing
One of the following (all taught in English):
For L 101—Intro to the World of Languages
For L 110—Intro to Foreign Film
For L 120—Intro to Foreign Culture
For L 130—Intro to Foreign Literature
For L 220—Global Theory/Regional Reality through Culture
One of the following (in English):
Fren 110—French/Francophone Film
Fren 120—French Culture
Fren 121—Francophone Culture
Fren 130—Masterpieces of French/Francophone Literature
Two of the following:
Fren 310—French Film
Fren 311—Francophone Film
Fren 320—French/Francophone Culture
Fren 350—Intro to French Literature
Fren 351—Intro to Francophone Literature
Fren 361—French for the Professions
Two of the following:
Fren 450—Seminar in French Studies - Themes
Fren 451—Seminar in French Studies - Authors
Fren 452—Seminar in French Studies - Genres
TEACHING OPTION REQUIRED COURSES
For L 440—Methods of Teaching Foreign Languages
For L 441—Instructional Technology for Foreign Language Learning
Note: See the WSU Catalog (http://www.catalog.wsu.edu/Pullman) for degree requirements and talk with your academic advisor about planning and scheduling your courses. All students must meet requirements as outlined in the catalog in order to graduate.
[+] Scholarships and financial aid
For language students
The Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures offers various scholarship opportunities to students enrolled in a foreign language class. To get information and apply for these scholarships, go to the Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures scholarships page or contact the department’s main office at 509-335-4135.
For all students at WSU
A variety of state, federal, and university-sponsored programs are available to help students with educational costs. Washington State University awards millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships to students every year based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of the two.
Students should complete the Washington State University general scholarship application and the FAFSA to ensure their eligibility for the widest range of scholarships and need-based financial aid.
For information or to apply for financial aid and scholarships from WSU, see the Scholarships and Finances section of the WSU website.
[+] Suggested strengths, interests, and preparation
- At least one year of French in high school is recommended.
- Willingness to explore other cultures is essential.
[+] Careers
A major in French can be useful in various aspects of international business or service work that requires communication with clients who speak the French language in such places as Europe, Africa, and some provinces of Canada.
With additional study, a major in French can lead to work as a teacher of French at the high school or college/university level.