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.

Opportunities

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

Foreign Language Assistants

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

French and Francophone Studies News

Standing in Solidarity with Worcester’s Immigrants and Refugees: Reflections from the Holy Cross Community

More than 200 members of the Holy Cross community joined protesters Tuesday night at Worcester City Hall, a gathering that was intended to show support for the city’s immigrants and refugees. The solidarity rally of 1,300 — one of many …

Students Learn, Network with Alumnae at 11th Annual Women in Business Conference

Criticisms of a liberal arts education run rampant. However, keynote speaker Diane Vazza ’79 and students who attended this year’s 11th annual Women in Business Conference at Holy Cross have certainly proven this sentiment wrong. These empowered, educated, and inspiring …

Holy Cross Academic Conference to Showcase Student Work

As the academic year comes to an end, the College of the Holy Cross will celebrate the great and varied work accomplished by its students at the annual Academic Conference taking place across campus from April 27 through April 30. The four-day conference gives students from all class years the opportunity to present the results of their independent research and course work done in a variety of environments—from campus classrooms and libraries to within the Worcester community; from research labs and study abroad locations to art studios and field sites.