French and Francophone studies
As an Earlham French and Francophone studies student, you will develop a critical understanding of cultural differences, analyze complex literary and visual texts, and make connections to French-speaking communities, particularly in France, the Caribbean and Africa.
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Recent graduates are pursuing advanced degrees in library science at Simmons University and French at University of Victoria. Alumni have also pursued advanced degrees in a variety of fields, including teaching, international trade, law, linguistics and administration at universities such as the University of Arizona, Louisiana State University and Indiana University-Bloomington, to name a few.
“Earlham’s French Department has provided me with a wide variety of learning opportunities, including a dynamic range of courses offered by engaging professors and a valuable semester abroad in France. These experiences have motivated me to continue my French and Francophone Studies at the graduate level.”
Linnea Thorson ’21
French and Francophone studies major
Exploring diversity through language
The Department of French and Francophone Studies offers a wider variety of immersive experiences where French is a lingua franca. Our students, language assistants and professors enjoy practicing the language while they explore the culture.
Immersive living and learning
On-campus immersion and learning through interaction, cultural events and activities are led by our native French and Francophone studies language assistant and interaction with our French language-speaking national and international students.
Off-campus study
Our semester-long off-campus study program in France offers you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the French language and French and Francophone cultures.
Our faculty
Our faculty have strong personal connections to France, Senegal, Haiti, Martinique, Benin, The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire. They enhance your experience on study abroad trips and will help you find jobs or internships.
Frequently asked questions
The Department of French and Francophone Studies prepares you to speak, read, write and explore the literature and cultures of France and the Francophone world of Africa and the Caribbean.
Our graduates pursue advanced degrees in a variety of fields, including teaching, educational leadership, tourism, cultural heritage, filmmaking, artists, writers, Peace Corps, international relations and trade, law, linguistics, business and administration.
Career paths of alumni include law, teaching at all levels, editing books in translation and international relations. Pursuing advanced degrees in French language and French and Francophone studies.
Language majors have interned at museums, cultural centers, nonprofits and businesses all over the world.
Learn more about available programs via our Center for Global and Career Education.
Through our 3+1 Education Program, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) and teaching license—all in just nine semesters.
You’ll leave Earlham with two degrees, licensed to teach grades 5-12 in Indiana. (And it’s easy to transfer your license to other states—many of our graduates do!)
Students who major in French and Francophone studies are interested in sharpening their communication skills and developing a global perspective.
If you are interested in working in a global setting, whether through international business, nonprofit work or as an educator, interpreter or translator, the French and Francophone studies program may be the right fit for you.