French and Francophone Studies

French and Francophone Studies: Major, Minor

To study French is to join an extensive community of speakers and learners of the French language scattered over five continents. The French curriculum is designed to provide you with linguistic proficiency as well as an understanding of French and Francophone literatures and cultures.

Through extensive course offerings, you will develop linguistic proficiency, hone analytical skills, and gain a critical perspective on global affairs, notably those of the French-speaking world. Language instruction is complemented by practice sessions (practica) led by a French Foreign Language Assistant (FLA). Cocurricular events will allow you to perfect your language skills and enhance your appreciation of the cultures of various French-speaking countries. You can deepen your learning experience by studying abroad at one of the College’s immersion programs in France and Cameroon.

Program Highlights

The French and Francophone Studies program offers an array of rigorous and innovative courses, all conducted in French. Language courses range from elementary to advanced levels. Upper-level courses include offerings in the following subject areas:

  • French and Francophone Literatures
  • Arts & Cultures from the French-speaking World
  • French-Language Cinema
  • Race, Gender & Sexuality Studies
  • Translation 
  • Linguistics
aerial photo of the central square of the historic heart of Dijon, France
Study Abroad

Enhance your French language skills by studying abroad in Dijon or Strasbourg, France or in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

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Opportunities

See your French studies come to life beyond the classroom through regular cocurricular programming.

foreign language assistants posing on stairs
Foreign Language Assistants

Practice your French in small practice sessions led by French Foreign Language Assistants.

French and Francophone Studies News

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Video: Holy Cross Students Find Success After Graduation

What doors does a degree from Holy Cross open? If you’re a recent grad, you just might be changing the world by teaching music to refugee children in Palestine, finishing your second year of law school or managing clients for an award-winning marketing firm.

Sunset over Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, Italy
Holy Cross’ Long-Term Study Abroad Programs Recognized for Tenth Year in a Row
This year, 86 Holy Cross students are spending the year — yes, the entire year — around the world in Germany, China, Italy, Argentina, Ireland, Spain, France, Australia, Senegal, Scotland, England, Japan and Sri Lanka. What’s more, another 140 students …
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Blog: Carroll ’20 Eager to Immerse Himself in French Culture During Year Abroad
NAME Sean Carroll ’20 HOMETOWN Floral Park, N.Y. AREAS OF STUDY Economics and French double major WHERE HE’S STUDYING Université de Bourgogne in Dijon, France DURATION Full academic year WHY HE CHOSE FRANCE “It has been a dream of mine to …