BA in French Studies in Boston United States | Boston University

The French Studies major offers comprehensive exploration of France's language, literature, history, and culture, along with Francophone regions worldwide. Through intimate, discussion-focused classes, students gain sophisticated linguistic abilities to comprehend and employ French fluently across academic, social, and professional settings. The program's focus on literary and cinematic works enhances cultural awareness, communication techniques, and research capabilities. Graduates emerge with refined analytical reading skills and persuasive interpretation abilities, developed through intensive engagement with seminal texts, historical moments, influential figures, and diverse Francophone perspectives spanning from medieval times to contemporary postcolonial expressions. The department highly recommends study abroad opportunities, with numerous students completing major requirements through Boston University's academic programs in Geneva and Paris, including combined academic-internship options.

The French Studies major cultivates valuable competencies for graduate education while preparing students for globally focused careers requiring intercultural fluency, including fields like education, international relations, government service, media, legal professions, corporate communications, healthcare, and scientific research.

Learning Outcomes
Advanced-low proficiency in French speaking, reading, writing, and listening comprehension according to ACTFL standards, applicable across scholarly and casual contexts.
In-depth understanding of French and Francophone literary and cinematic works across multiple genres, examined within their historical and cultural frameworks.
Enhanced critical reading skills for textual interpretation and assessment of arguments concerning cultural and literary subjects.
Ability to construct coherent, evidence-based written arguments with clarity, persuasive power, and proper citation methods.