French

Program Description: French Language and Literature Bachelor’s Degree Program

The Bachelor of Arts in French Language and Literature at Slippery Rock University offers students an in-depth exploration of the French language, its rich literary tradition, and its cultural significance across the globe. This comprehensive program is designed to develop students' advanced language skills, critical thinking abilities, and appreciation for Francophone cultures, preparing graduates for diverse career opportunities in international relations, education, translation, tourism, and more.

Throughout the program, students engage in a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced language proficiency, including reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills. Courses in French grammar, phonetics, and conversation build a strong linguistic foundation, while literature courses introduce students to major works from the medieval period to contemporary authors. These classes foster analytical skills and a deeper understanding of literary themes, historical contexts, and cultural movements within Francophone societies.

The program also offers specialized electives in areas such as French cinema, cultural studies, translation and interpretation, and business French. Students have opportunities for immersive experiences through study abroad programs in Francophone countries, allowing them to practice language skills in authentic settings and gain cultural competence. Additionally, engagement with French linguistics, translation projects, and research seminars enhances students’ academic and professional preparedness.

Faculty members are experts in French language and literature, committed to mentoring students and encouraging active participation in academic and extracurricular activities related to Francophone culture. The program also emphasizes critical inquiry, intercultural understanding, and effective communication, vital skills in today’s globalized world.

Graduates of the French Language and Literature program are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies, teach French at various levels, work in international organizations, or enter fields requiring bilingual proficiency and cultural literacy. The degree provides a solid foundation for careers in diplomacy, translation, international business, journalism, and cultural exchange programs.

With a dedicated faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and enriching study abroad opportunities, the French Language and Literature Bachelor’s Degree at Slippery Rock University prepares students to become proficient linguists and culturally aware global citizens ready to excel in diverse professional environments.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline Rolling basis Tuition fee Not specified Start date August 2015 Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

Requirements for the Major - Credits: 30-39

Major Prerequisite Courses or Equivalent

Exemption is possible from these courses according to performance on the placement test. CLEP, AP and OPI credits are accepted.

• FREN 101 - French Language and Culture I Credits: 3
• FREN 102 - French Language and Culture II Credits: 3

Basic Skills Courses

Note: Exemption is possible from these courses according to performance in the department placement exam, AP - Credits or CLEP - Credits. Native or Heritage speakers should consult the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures.

• FREN 103 - French Language and Culture III Credits: 3
• FREN 201 - French Conversation 1 Credits: 3
• FREN 220 - Reading in French Credits: 3

Required Courses

• FREN 300 - French Grammar and Composition 1 Credits: 3
• FREN 330 - French Literature from the 18th Century to the Present Credits: 3
• FREN 350 - French Linguistics and Phonetics Credits: 3
• FREN 400 - French Grammar and Composition 2 Credits: 3

One of the following literature courses:

• FREN 404 - Modern French Literature Credits: 3
• FREN 430 - French Literature 12th to 17th Century Credits: 3

One of the following civilization courses:

• FREN 305 - French Civilization Credits: 3
• FREN 306 - Modern France and Francophone Identities Credits: 3

One of the following conversation courses:

• FREN 301 - French Conversation 2 Credits: 3

or

• FREN 401 - French Conversation 3 Credits: 3

Note:

6 - 9 Credits of any 300- or 400- level French course may be chosen as electives except any French course taught in English. Choose as many electives as necessary to reach 30 hours of courses in French.

Electives: Credits 0-9

Any 300 or 400 level French course may be chosen as an elective including the civilization course not chosen.

Specialization: Business Administration Specialization with International Emphasis

This program is designed for students who prefer the flexibility of a liberal arts program while studying the international market. Such a student may decide to enter an MBA program designed specifically for the liberal arts language major. Specific requirements for this program are available under the French Business Administration Specialization with International Emphasis program.

Requirements

Slippery Rock University has a strong commitment to student success, and we thoroughly research the academic background of the students who tend to succeed at SRU. We use this information to establish admission guidelines for first year students (new freshmen). We are seeking students who have attained at least a 3.0 GPA at the time of admission, have demonstrated proficiency in college preparatory coursework, and who have average to above average scores on the SAT or ACT. We will accept either test and use the best scores available. Offers of admission for new freshmen from high school may be made as soon as August following their junior year in high school. High school admitted students are required to submit proof of high school graduation in the form of Official Transcripts upon high school graduation.

In order to apply for admission, the following credentials are required:

• Official High School Transcripts, including a 12th Grade class schedule if applicable
• SAT or ACT Scores
• $30.00 application fee

WAIT LIST: Applicants who do not meet the admission guidelines are still encouraged to apply for admission if they are close to our admission guidelines. Such applicants may be placed on a wait list for admission consideration. Students who are placed on a wait list need to understand it is not the same as being denied admission. Wait list status simply means that an applicant's credentials may require a closer review beyond just the quantitative numbers. Offers of admission will be made to wait listed applicants on regular intervals.
Wait listed applicants should strive to improve their grades and/or test scores and re-submit them to the Office of Admissions as soon as is practical after the next marking period or re-test. Periodic review of the wait list will likely begin in November and offers of admission made on a rolling basis. Our goal is to have most of the wait list offers of admission made in March or April. A final round of wait list offers may be made in mid-May on a space available basis. We encourage students to submit additional information if it improves the academic record.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Slippery Rock University.

Funding

Contact the Office of Financial Aid for detailed information on various financial aid programs and scholarship materials. You can submit your questions regarding financial assistance directly to the Financial Aid Office at financial.aid@sru.edu. Students are encouraged to apply for admission early.