French Studies, B.A.
The French studies major is an interdisciplinary major which combines courses from the department of French with those from other disciplines, the content of which directly relates to France and French-speaking countries.
The program is designed to offer its majors the opportunity to achieve proficiency in writing, speaking, comprehending, and reading the French language, while at the same time broadening and deepening their knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the cultures of France and the francophone world.
Since the goal of the French studies major is to focus on the acquisition of language proficiency and to incorporate contributions from more than one field of study, it prepares students for careers in international law, teaching, government services, foreign missions, translating, the non-profit sector, and for positions in business that require a knowledge of the French language and culture.
Students pursuing a B.A. degree in French studies are required to complete 18 upper-division credit hours of French courses and 9 upper-division credit hours from at least two of the following disciplines: history, philosophy, fine arts, and political science. Students pursuing a B.A. degree in French studies also must spend a minimum of six weeks studying French in France or a francophone country. Should a student be unable to study abroad, the department chair in consultation with the French faculty may approve a substitute language immersion experience such as a local internship. Study abroad opportunities include IES programs in Paris (summer or semester), Nantes (semester only) and Arles (summer only).
The French Studies major requires at least six weeks of study abroad in a French-speaking country. If a student studies in France for six weeks in the summer, he or she may earn up to six credits towards the French studies major. If a student studies abroad for one semester, he or she may earn up to 15 credits towards the major. Should a student be unable to study abroad, the department chair, in consultation with the French Studies faculty, may approve a substitute language immersion experience such as a local internship.
Students graduating from the University of Portland with a B.A. in French studies are required to take the computerized Oral Proficiency Interview (OPIc) for graduation. Majors will be contacted to take the exam during the spring semester. The testing of the students’ oral proficiency will give the students national certification of their actual skill level; such certification should provide students and employers with an accurate comparative indicator of a student’s oral competency in the language. See statement on learning outcomes for language majors for further details on OPIc.
University Requirements - 39 hours
See Core Curriculum
College Requirements 21-33 hours
See College Requirements BA
Degree Requirements
Major Requirements — 33 hours (including 6 hours study abroad)
It is possible to begin studying French as a first-year student and still complete all requirements for the French studies major.
18 Upper-division credit hours in French
9 Hours outside the French program from at least two different disciplines chosen from the following list:
PHL 414 only when focusing on a French philosopher
PHL 469 only when focusing on a French philosopher
Students may also take other courses containing significant content relating to francophone countries with the approval of the French studies advisor.
Study Abroad — 6 hours
General Electives — 15-27 hours
Total Credit Hours: 120
Students may also take courses containing significant content relating to francophone countries offered on a one-time basis or subsequently added to permanent course offerings. Students must seek the approval of the French studies advisor before counting such courses toward the French studies major.