BA in French Studies

The major 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. Students graduate with the capacity for close, analytical reading and interpretive argumentation, through spoken and written engagement with major works, events, periods, and people responsible for shaping the history of France, its global reach, and the remarkable diversity of Francophone experiences and expression from the Middle Ages to the postcolonial present. Study abroad is strongly encouraged, and many students fulfill requirements for the major at Boston University’s academic and combined academic-internship programs in Geneva and Paris.

Skills and knowledge gained through the major in French Studies provide an excellent preparation for continuing on to graduate study, as well as sought-after intercultural competence for globally and internationally oriented careers in education, international development, government, journalism, law, communications, business, health professions, and scientific fields.

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 observe ethical and precise citation practices.
• 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 placement test results

Requirements

All BU undergraduate students, including both entering first-year and transfer students, will pursue coursework in the BU Hub, the University’s general education program that is integrated into the entire undergraduate experience. BU Hub requirements can be satisfied in a number of ways, including coursework in and beyond the major as well as through cocurricular activities. Students majoring in French Studies will ordinarily, through coursework in the major, satisfy BU Hub requirements in Philosophical, Aesthetic and Historical Interpretation, as well as some requirements in Communication, Diversity, Civic Engagement, and Global Citizenship and the Intellectual Toolkit.

Ten 4-unit courses with a grade of C or higher are required. Students entering with advanced standing in French must complete a minimum of six principal courses in French at Boston University. Students participating in a Boston University program in France must complete a minimum of four principal courses in French on the Boston campus.

Foundation Courses

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

Gateway Courses

• Select at least one introductory course in the analysis of French and Francophone literature and cinema numbered CAS LF 350–359.

Advanced Courses

• Select at least three 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 major or minor, or toward the joint major in French & Linguistics, in the Boston University Study Abroad and Internship Programs in 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.