FRENCH

Program Description

The courses offered by the Department of Foreign Languages are designed to develop in the student the ability to speak, write, read and understand a foreign language thus enhancing employment opportunities in a variety of occupations and contributing to the student’s broad humanistic education by enriching appreciation and understanding of the cultures of other nations.

Knowledge of French, especially in conjunction with another major, provides many opportunities for interesting and rewarding careers in the global economy. An international focus is essential for the twenty-first century. More than 1200 French companies have subsidiaries in the U.S. and France is the largest recipient of U.S. foreign investment. Canada, which is officially bilingual, is our most important trading partner and requires labeling in English and French on all imported products. French is the first or second language in more than forty countries and is spoken by 125 million people around the world.

The objectives of the major program in French are to increase the student’s ability to communicate in French and to provide a broad understanding of the culture. This preparation provides the necessary background for careers in foreign language teaching, bilingual education, and the teaching of English as a second language, and for graduate study in such fields as library science and comparative literature. In conjunction with another area of specialization the competence gained in the French major program will prepare the student for a career in fields such as government, travel and tourism, international business and commerce, accounting, law and communications.

Curriculum
A student may begin the study of French at King’s at the beginning level if necessary, but French 145: French Conversation & Composition I is the first course that counts for the major. If taken, French 141-144 (Beginning and Intermediate French) count as electives.  Students are assisted in selecting the appropriate level at which to begin by a faculty member from the Language Department.

French majors will plan their program in consultation with their major advisor in the Department of Foreign Languages and all decisions will be subject to the Chairperson’s approval. A minor in French is also available.

To recognize a student’s superior achievement in foreign language study, the Department sponsors a chapter of Alpha Mu Gamma, a national collegiate foreign language honor society.

Study Abroad Option
French majors are encouraged, although not required to study for a summer, semester, or entire academic year in a country where French is spoken.  This is an excellent way to increase fluency in French and acquire a firsthand knowledge of the culture. Students may choose from the numerous accredited programs sponsored by American colleges and universities in French-speaking countries, subject to approval by appropriate College officials. Students should consult with the Director of the Study Abroad Program and their major advisor in the Foreign Language Department for assistance in selecting a program suitable for their special interests and needs.

Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Compatible Second Major or Minor
A French major can be combined with any other major. Many of the combinations are possible within the 120 credit graduation requirement. Others may require additional credits which can be acquired through summer study or a course overload during the regular semester. The following are examples of second majors which can be completed by French majors. Minors, which require fewer courses, are also available in many of these areas:

• Accounting
• Biology
• Business Administration
• Computers and Information Systems
• Elementary Education
• English
• Environmental Science
• Health Care Administration
• History
• Human Resources
• International Business
• Marketing
• Mass Communications
• Political Science
• Psychology
• Spanish

Special Features

• Second major option
• Small classes conducted entirely in French