French
Why pursue a French degree at North Central College?
French speakers are in high demand in international business, marketing, education, government, travel and art/fashion industries worldwide. Learning French extends beyond language fluency building critical thinking skills that are transferable to many career fields. Individuals that can speak, read, write and understand French will find that the knowledge of the French language is often a priority to a potential employer over other job skills for positions they may be applying for. This program is designed to provide robust language skills along with the experiences necessary to succeed in a global work environment.
At North Central College you will acquire the skills necessary to live and work in an international community. You will also gain exposure to cultural perspectives that will provide an in depth understanding of the French culture and how to operate within it. Whatever you choose to do with what you learn, studying French is sure to provide a wide variety of rewarding employment opportunities as a result of this in demand skill.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN
- Researching information related to foreign markets, humanitarian service, law, labor relations, marketing and news to assist international companies with making informed business decisions
- Providing leadership in the hospitality industry for hotels and restaurants with locations, clients or customers in France or French-speaking countries
- Working or studying abroad using both English and French languages to educate others
then a degree in FRENCH might be for you.
Why study French history at North Central College?
In the Classroom
Coursework topics:
- 28 or more credit hours taught in French
- Contemporary France
- French Enrichment
- French Literature
- French Poetry
- French Practicum
- French Women Writers
- History of France
- Internship
- Professional Portfolio
- The Maghreb
- Vichy France
Beyond the Classroom
As a French major, you can:
- Use short-term learning opportunities to conduct research through a Richter Grant or May Term travel to French-speaking areas.
- Expand your linguistic and cultural proficiencies by studying abroad for a term though our exchange program in Angers, France.
- Earn an English language learner (ELL) minor to qualify to teach English abroad in a French-speaking country or teach ESL in Illinois schools.
- Travel to countries like Haiti to volunteer for ministry and service
- Participate in the French Club and the annual Modern and Classical Languages Festival.
- Take advantage of on-campus tutoring options and the Roberta I. Myers Language Resource Center for individualized tutoring or audio and video support
- Qualify for induction into Phi Delta Phi, the International French Honor Society, or Phi Sigma Iota for students studying more than one language.
French, B.A.
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Modern and Classical Languages.
The French major consists of a minimum of 33 credit hours (FREN or FRST), at or above the 201-level. Of the 33 credit hours, at least 28 credit hours must come from courses taught in French (FREN) and five credit hours must be at the 400-level including
Note:
Students seeking teaching licensure must also complete the
Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the
French Minor
For additional programs and courses in this department, see Modern and Classical Languages.
A minimum of 20 credit hours in French language, including four credit hours at the 300-level or above.
French Internships and Jobs
A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.
Graduate Schools
Recent graduates in French have been accepted at:
- University of Illinois Graduate School of Library and Information Science
- University of Iowa, Linguistics
Careers
Recent graduates in French include:
- International trainer
- Special collections librarian
- Travel guide
- Translator
- Teacher
- English teacher in French high school
Invest in your future
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Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.
Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College
Apply to North Central College
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