Minor in French Studies

The minor in French Studies encompasses broad and deep study of the language, literature, history, and culture of France and the Francophone world. Small, discussion-based courses equip students with advanced knowledge and skills for understanding nuances of the French language and using it effectively in academic, daily, and professional contexts. Emphasis on the study of literature and film develops students’ cultural competence, communication, and research skills.

The minor welcomes students from all BU undergraduate schools and colleges. It provides an excellent preparation for continuing on to graduate study. Recent graduates have combined their minor in French Studies with more than 20 different arts and sciences majors and with professional degrees from the College of Fine Arts, College of Communication, Questrom School of Business, and School of Hospitality Administration. A minor in French Studies provides students with skills and knowledge that can enhance career opportunities across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, including government, international development, journalism, law, communications, and business.

Learning Outcomes

• Proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and the understanding of spoken French, at the advanced-low level as measured by ACTFL guidelines, and the ability to use these skills in a range of academic and everyday situations.
• Advanced knowledge of French and Francophone literature and film in several genres, with attention to its historical or cultural context.
• The ability to read critically and closely, to interpret texts, and to evaluate arguments about literary and cultural texts and topics.
• The ability to formulate an organized, well-supported argument in writing; to write clearly and persuasively; and to locate and cite effective secondary materials in writing.
• The ability to demonstrate cross-cultural understanding, communication, and adaptability and to make connections across disciplines and areas of study.

Prerequisite

CAS LF 211 or equivalent or placement test results

Requirements

A total of six 4-unit CAS LF and closely related courses in language, literature, film, linguistics, and civilization, numbered 300 and above, distributed as follows:

Foundation Courses

• Select up to three advanced language and culture courses numbered CAS LF 212–349 on the BU Charles River Campus or BU Study Abroad program, including an internship conducted in French.

Gateway Courses

• Select up to three introductory courses in the analysis of French and Francophone literature and cinema numbered CAS LF 350–359.

Advanced Courses

• Select at least two advanced courses in French and Francophone literature and cinema numbered CAS LF 400 and above on the BU Charles River Campus.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Students may take courses to fulfill their language requirement or courses toward a French Studies major or minor, or toward the joint major in French & Linguistics, in the Boston University Study Abroad and Internship Programs in Geneva and Paris. The BU center in Paris offers the Paris Internship Program, running throughout the year, as well as a study abroad program during the summer.

Opportunities to take courses abroad taught in French are also available in BU’s program in Geneva, and through exchange programs in Paris in the fields of management and political science. Additional information on these programs is available in the Study Abroad and Internship Programs portion of this Bulletin. Students should consult with a faculty advisor to determine which Study Abroad courses may fulfill major and minor requirements.

Placement Examination

A placement test is required of all students whose most recent course in French was taken in high school or at a college other than Boston University and who wish to continue their study of this language here. Information regarding online placement exams is available in the department or on the departmental website.