In this section

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

  • Oral and written fluency in the French language
  • About the rich cultures of France and Francophone countries
  • How to read and discuss different forms of literary and nonliterary writing in French
  • How to make connections between various disciplines using international knowledge and global values

WHO YOU COULD BE

  • English teacher in schools in France
  • International NGO employee
  • Researcher/International policy analyst
  • Lawyer
  • Journalist
  • International program coordinator

OVERVIEW

Parlez-vous français? Are you interested in becoming proficient in French and experiencing the culture of France or a Francophone country firsthand? The French & Francophone Studies program at Puget Sound helps students progress from the basics of language learning through senior- level critical coursework in the French language. Our curriculum focuses on the culture and civilization of France and the Francophone world, and promotes oral and written fluency in French through a variety of course offerings, cocurricular activities, and study abroad.

The French & Francophone Studies department offers interdisciplinary majors that allow students to pursue individual academic interests. While studying the French language, culture, and literature, each student can choose a French major that emphasizes or complements their academic interests. A French minor is also offered.

 

SAMPLE COURSES

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Students gain experience in French in a variety of ways, including:

  • Studying abroad in France or another French-speaking country, like Leo Rain ’20, Senegal; Sydney Maysmith '24, who extended her time abroad to conduct a comparative study about organic farming in France and the U.S.; or Xavey Bzdek '24, who did research on migration during their time abroad
  • Living in the International District housing experience
  • Spend a year teaching in France after graduation through the French Government Teaching Assistantship Program, like Connor May ’19, Ashley Coyne ’19, Nicole Bouche ’19, Sarah Johnson ’19, and Molly Wampler ’19

JOBS

Where our graduates work: 

  • Middle school in France
  • United States Senate (deputy scheduler)
  • Export Enterprises (translator/researcher)
  • Camp Counselors USA (international program coordinator)
  • ESCP Europe, a European business school (teaching assistant)

CONTINUE STUDYING

Where our students continue their studies:

  • University of Wisconsin, Madison
  • University of Puget Sound (Master of Arts in Teaching)
  • University of Washington
  • University of Denver
  • Pantheon-Sorbonne University Paris (master's program, archaeology)
  • NYU

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

International District housing experience
INTERNATIONAL DISTRICT

The Michel Rocchi International District in Thomas Hall is part of the university's living-learning residential environment, which includes cultural programs and activities.

Students studying in Dijon, France
DIJON PROGRAM

Managed by the French studies department directly, this immersive study abroad experience provides students a chance to greatly improve their fluency and appreciation of French culture.

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INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

Students often choose to study abroad in France or other French-related programs in places like Senegal, Madagascar, Switzerland, Cameroon, or Morocco.