French Studies
Our program offers an exploration of the language, literatures, and cultures of the French-speaking world. You will learn about the literary traditions of the francophone world, be encouraged to consider the relationship of literature to the world, and become active and critical readers and thinkers. In addition to our expertise in French literature from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, our faculty is deeply committed to excellent teaching and mentoring at all levels.
Why Choose a Degree in French?
Spoken by more than 230 million people, French is an official language of diplomacy for many international organizations, including the European Union, the International Olympic Committee, the Red Cross, and the United Nations. A strong knowledge of French language and culture is an asset to students seeking post-grad careers in education, diplomacy, international business, finance, economics, art, and more.
What You’ll Study
We offer a major and minor in French through the Department of World Languages and Literatures. Our classes are small, focused, and taught by expert faculty. Topics range from French composition and conversation, to major periods in French literature, to examinations of French society during various historical periods.
Many of our students earn course credit on overseas programs. In addition to general cultural programs that are open to all students, there are three language-intensive overseas programs for French: two in France—Paris and Strasbourg—and one in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Outside the classroom, the Keck Interactive Learning Center is a language center and community area that is packed with linguistic and cultural resources. The Global Languages and Cultures Living-Learning Community is a unique on-campus housing option with an immersive language-based focus. Our students are supported each year with a visiting French student from the Institut d’Études Politiques who teaches our conversation courses and offers tutoring support.
Complement Your Education With One of These Minors
The most popular minors for our French studies majors are English, history, and political science.
What Students Are Saying About Lewis & Clark
John Mbanda BA ’25More about JohnThe thing that I find most interesting about the International Affairs Department is the level of care that professors show you and the lengths these educators and staff are willing to go for each student. Our small class sizes allow each student to form a personal relationship with professors, which is extremely valuable!
Keilani Vega BA ’22More about KeilaniI knew I wanted to be an IA major because I was interested in global politics, with a little bit of human rights and economics, a touch of diplomatic relations, and a sprinkle of law. One of my first IA classes touched on all of these concepts the first day, which solidified my decision.
Annabelle Samson BA ’27More about AnnabelleBesides having a beautiful campus, Lewis & Clark is a wonderful place to get to learn.
What Can You Do With a Degree in French?
Our alumni use their BA in French in a variety of endeavors. In addition to receiving Fulbright and other grants to teach English or do research in French-speaking countries, our students pursue careers in teaching, academia, cultural exchange, law, and other fields.
Dedicated Faculty
Our expert professors are your expert mentors. You will learn directly from faculty (no graduate assistants here!) that are nationally recognized in their fields of study and who love to work with and learn from their students. Your professors will inspire you to be a thoughtful and passionate participant in a diverse world. Your small classes will support you as you explore new ideas, find your voice, and speak your truth.
Invest in Yourself
A private liberal arts education is often more affordable than you think. Last year, Lewis & Clark distributed over $74 million in assistance from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. Additionally, we’re so confident that our first-year students will graduate with their bachelor of arts degree in four years that if you don’t, we’ll cover the extra semester of tuition.
Find Your People
Our student-led French Club gathers French speaking students from all over campus and offers a wide variety of activities including conversation groups, movies, karaoke, performances, and game nights in French. One of the oldest journals at L&C, Polyglot gives the opportunity to students of all levels to publish their work in French.
Where Lewis & Clark Will Take You
Hannah Singleton BA ’21More about HannahMy education at Lewis & Clark allowed me to build the foundation to reach this height in my career as a young professional, and supported me in my belief that I could achieve it.
Aijia Duanmu BA ’18More about AijiaThe most important thing I learned at L&C is communication. Communication is the way to express myself, and to know a little more about myself. Also, it is a way to cooperate with others.
Alaina King BA ’19More about AlainaAs a budding professional in the field of international education, I feel incredibly lucky that I get to work in a field where I can tap into my undergraduate studies on a daily basis.
Featured News
From the Inside-Out: 5 Questions for Molly Robinson
In Summer 2022, Molly Robinson, associate professor of French, completed Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program’s Instructor Training thanks to a faculty grant from the Mellon Foundation and the Center for Community and Global Health.
