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French Major

What is a Major in French?

A French major prepares you to become proficient in this historical and global language. You'll gain analytical, writing, and public speaking skills that will prepare you for your careers. You will also develop a strong knowledge of French and Francophone cultures.

Why Study French at Virginia Tech?

Our award-winning faculty care about our students and are dedicated to helping them grow intellectually. Small class sizes ensure that you will get to know your professors, and they will know you. Students will become fluent in the language and have a chance to immerse themselves in French culture through a study abroad or student exchange program.  Our graduates pursue careers in a range of fields or continue their education at the graduate level. 

 
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Study Abroad Programs

 
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Student Organizations

 
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Careers and Further Study

What can you do with a major in French?

Jobs Held by Our Graduates

  • International Business Analyst
  • Foreign Service Officer 
  • Global Account Manager
  • Bilingual Communications Officer
  • Curator/Archivist
  • University Professor
  • International Project Manager
  • Translator/Interpreter
  • Teacher in the US and abroad
  • Public Relations Professional
  • Nongovernmental Organization Director

Beyond the Classroom

Experiential Learning

Collaborate 

We share a deep commitment to undergraduate teaching, and our esteemed faculty has received numerous teaching awards. Learn with them in small class sizes and study abroad opportunities. 

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Virginia Tech in Paris, France

Imagine yourself in the world's most romantic city. Tailored to your level of French, our experienced faculty will lead you on guided tours of Paris. You'll explore castles in the Loire Valley, lights in Chartres, and art in Giverny.

Virginia Tech in Senegal, West Africa

Encounter French influence in the Wolof community of exotic Senegal. As you immerse yourself in the language and culture, you'll visit the stunning Lac Rose (the pink lake) and the chilling slave house on Gorée Island. 

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Get Involved 

Join our French club, Le Cercle Francophone. We encourage appreciation of francophone culture and recognize your outstanding scholarship in the French language. 

To work on your conversational skills, attend The Cercle Francophone. We meet weekly and plan activities and interactions with native-speakers. You can also volunteer with Teach for Madame, which facilitates a French after-school program for local children. 

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LLC

Live in Mozaiko, a Living-Learning community where the world is at your fingertips. U.S. and international students live together in a diverse community, where you learn about each other's cultures, immerse yourself in language practice, and prepare for a lifetime of intercultural leadership. 

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Scholarships 

Explore the scholarship opportunities available to French students. 

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M.A. in Foreign Languages, Cultures, and Literatures

The French and Francophone Studies program provides a comprehensive overview to the literatures, cultures, and languages of the French and Francophone world. The program exposes students to research methods, critical analysis, and advanced pedagogical tools. The principal goal of the program is to prepare students for career tracks that require advanced linguistic and cultural knowledge.


Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages Degree

French Major Requirements

  • Introduction to Francophone Studies
  • Studies in French Literature
  • Advanced Composition and Stylistics
  • French for Oral Proficiency

Minor and Elective Hours

Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.


120 hrs

B.A. Foreign Languages

45 hrs
General Education

36 hrs
Major Requirements

39 hrs
Elective


 

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