Department of French, Francophone, and Italian Studies
Explore Languages, Cultures, and Global Perspectives
In today’s connected world, understanding different languages and cultures helps you navigate your future with confidence. French, Francophone, and Italian Studies is more than learning a language. It is about exploring the people, cultures, histories, and ideas that shape communities around the globe. Through language and cultural studies, students gain such valuable skills as:
- Critical thinking and cognitive flexibility
- Effective verbal and written communication
- Cross-cultural competence and global readiness
- Enhanced problem-solving and adaptability
These skills are valuable in careers ranging from business, education, and healthcare, to law, diplomacy, public service, tourism, nonprofit leadership, and international development. By the time you complete your degree, you will have developed the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in an increasingly global society.
Francophone Studies Enriches the French Degree
French is spoken by more than 300 million people across six continents. Francophone Studies explores the diverse cultures and communities that use French around the world.
You will examine literature, film, history, music, politics, and contemporary issues from places such as West and North Africa, the Caribbean, Canada, Europe, and the Pacific. You will learn how language connects people across borders while also reflecting unique local traditions and experiences.
Through Francophone Studies, you will engage with important topics such as:
- Cultural identity and belonging
- Global citizenship and real-world actionability
- Social and environmental concerns
- International arts and cultural expression
In-depth exploration and examination of the French-speaking world will help you understand today's global interconnectedness and succeed in your personal and professional communities.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
While working on your degree requirements, you will connect your studies to real-world experiences. Opportunities include:
- Studying abroad in French- and Italian-speaking regions
- Participating in cultural programs and language events
- Conducting undergraduate research with faculty mentors
- Engaging with local and global communities
- Exploring international careers and graduate study opportunities
These experiences will help you develop independence, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of the world around you.
A Community of Scholars and Global Citizens
Our faculty are dedicated educators, researchers, and mentors who support you throughout your academic journey. Small class sizes cultivate an environment that fosters meaningful discussion, personalized experience, and close collaboration.
Upon graduation, you will be proficient in French or Italian, be able to think across cultures, engage with diverse perspectives, and contribute thoughtfully to your professional and personal communities.
Preparing You for a Global Future
French, Francophone, and Italian Studies provide the tools to understand a complex world and the confidence to engage with it.
Whether your goal is to study abroad, pursue an international career, conduct research, or simply expand your horizons, our programs will help you develop the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to make a difference.
Join us and gain language skills, cultural knowledge, and a global perspective to succeed in an interconnected world.
