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French and Francophone Studies

Experience a bigger world. Minor in French to open doors, build connections, and gain a global perspective.

Program Snapshot

Program Type

Minor

Credit Hours

20

Campus

Salem

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Department Info
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Our French & Francophone Studies Minor

Delve into French and Francophone literature and language. Research the history and cultures of French speakers. With a French minor, you will gain an understanding of diverse populations and open yourself to new career paths. 

Why choose a French & Francophone Studies minor at Willamette? 

  • Study abroad programs. We encourage you to enhance your education with a study abroad program. Develop French language skills and immerse yourself in French culture. Consider locations in Lyon, Paris, Poitiers, and Strasbourg.
  • A global perspective. Native French speakers hail from such countries as France, Canada, West Africa, Belgium, Monaco, and Switzerland. In this program, you will explore their diverse experiences. 
  • An interdisciplinary approach. Gain a full view of Francophone people by studying their language, literature, culture, politics, and customs. 

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Do you have questions about the French and Francophone Studies program at Willamette? Fill out this form and we'll get in touch!

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Our Faculty

Our professors have published works, assisted with documentaries, and earned grants for research. They have the knowledge and skills to help inspire and guide students.
Amadou Fofana teaching a class.

Curriculum

Explore the language, literature, and culture of French-speaking people around the world. Gain a multi-faceted understanding of Francophone societies today and throughout history. Our program includes courses taught in English as well as courses taught in French.

  • ASIA 310 Asian Social Media in a Global Context

    Dive into the world of Asian social media, where you'll explore its role in digital culture and globalization. Engage critically with how social media is shaped by cultural contexts, power dynamics, and individual expression, and develop your own ethical approach to digital participation.

  • ASIA 210 Making and Playing of Traditional Musical Instruments

    Gain hands-on experience in making, practicing, and investigating various traditional art forms and music. Students will use brush pens for calligraphy, make and play flutes, and create handcrafts, while reading and discussing classic texts, researching topics, and presenting their learned skills.

Program Requirements

Students pursuing a French and Francophone Studies minor will need to complete 20 semester hours. These hours must be comprised of two core courses, one French studies course, and two additional courses in French.

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Admissions Information

Our French and Francophone Studies minor is open to first-year students, transfer students and international students. Learn more about Willamette’s undergraduate admissions process to get started.

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FAQs

Francophone studies cover the language, literature, culture, history, politics, and society of French-speaking peoples around the world. It uses multiple academic disciplines and investigates the diverse cultures and societies of French speakers.

A French minor can enhance your job prospects in a variety of fields. An enhanced language proficiency can benefit roles in: 

  • International Business and Commerce: Many companies operate in French-speaking countries, giving you a competitive edge in job markets that require bilingual skills. 
  • Education and Teaching: A French minor can supplement an education degree, leading to opportunities to teach French at the elementary or high school level or in international schools. 
  • Translation and Interpretation: Translators and interpreters are needed in various sectors such as government, healthcare, law, and media. 
  • Tourism and Hospitality: French is widely spoken in popular tourist destinations such as France, Canada, Switzerland, and parts of Africa and the Caribbean. A French minor can be beneficial for careers in tourism management and travel agencies. 
  • International Relations and Diplomacy: Many international organizations, including the United Nations and the European Union, use French as an official language. This can lead to careers in diplomacy, international relations, and NGOs. 
  • Cultural Industries: Proficiency in French can be valuable in cultural industries such as publishing, journalism, media, and the arts. Pursue opportunities in French-language media outlets, cultural organizations, and arts administration. 
  • Graduate Studies: If you plan to pursue graduate studies in fields related to French language, literature, culture, or linguistics, having a French minor can provide a strong foundation and may be required or preferred for certain programs. 

A French minor not only enhances your language skills but also demonstrates cultural competence and global awareness. It can complement a wide range of majors and career paths, offering flexibility and opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

Studying French offers a wide variety of benefits, no matter your professional goals. You will learn one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, allowing you to build important connections and open yourself to more career paths. Fluency or proficiency in French also gives you access to the rich literature, resources, and research produced by French speakers. Develop cultural enrichment and engage with societies and peoples outside your experience.

While we don’t offer a French major program, students have the option to design an individualized major under staff guidance. Alongside a counselor, students develop an academic track that will help them achieve their personal and professional goals.

Whether you consider a major or minor, you'll develop important reading and writing skills. Our Department of French and Francophone Studies can guide you through required courses and electives to prepare you for a global job market.

Consider enhancing your skills through our undergraduate studies programs. Combine course requirements across different disciplines to strengthen your understanding of the French language and culture.

Willamette University

French and Francophone Studies