About This Program
The French Studies major prepares you to thrive as a globally competent citizen through an in-depth encounter with French and Francophone cultures and literatures. You develop language proficiency and communication skills as you study literatures, films, and cultures of the French-speaking world.
The French program at UMD is committed to an interdisciplinary curriculum that focuses on the literature, history, and politics of French-speaking cultures and societies. Many French majors choose to double major with other disciplines like business, biology, politics, art and history, acknowledging that a strong foundation in language and cultures of French speaking countries enhances your ability to pursue internationally focused career paths.
A French degree makes any other degree more marketable. In a highly competitive job market, having a foreign language is an important and useful tool to set yourself apart. French makes it possible to do good in the world in places you had only dreamt of.
Research & Experiential Learning
- You are encouraged to study abroad, with opportunities in both France and Morocco
Student Internships
- University of Minnesota Duluth
- Cargill
- Zeitgeist
- Genesis Recovery Services
- RBC Wealth Management
Potential Careers
- Any discipline with an international presence: Doctors Without Borders, Engineers Without Borders, Accountants Without Borders, etc.
- English Teaching Assistant, France
- Peace Corps (Africa is most common placement for French speakers)
- K-12 French language teacher
- International business
- Organizations such as the United Nations, Amnesty International, and the World Health Organization
- Nonprofits with an international focus (eg. American Refugee Committee, Global Minnesota)
- Law or medical school
- Graduate school in fields such as linguistics, French and Francophone literature and culture, museum studies, communication, international affairs, etc.
Scholarships
- Alayne and Charles Berkins Scholarship
- Angela Marinelli Scholarship
- Frances A. Knobloch Scholarship
- Friends of Milan Kovacovic Scholarship
CAHSS is proud to be able to offer over 90 alumni and donor funded scholarships to our students each year. Each department facilitates the process for their specific scholarships and students are also encouraged to apply for CAHSS-wide scholarships offered to students in any field.
Get Involved
- Club de Français
Requirements
Refer to the link below for more detailed information about the program, admission requirements, sample plans, and contact information.