BA in French in Santa Barbara United States | University of California, Santa Barbara

Learning French opens doors to a global journey, taking you beyond France and Europe to Africa (home to 150 million French speakers), the Caribbean, Asia, and Canada. Our department provides specialized instruction in language and cross-cultural communication skills that apply to diverse fields and professions worldwide. With small class sizes, you'll benefit from personalized guidance from experienced instructors. You'll explore France's and the Francophone world's rich intellectual, cultural, and artistic heritage while also gaining practical skills through courses in business, translation, and contemporary social-political issues.

The French and Italian Department provides an in-depth curriculum covering the languages, literature, and cultures of both countries. Students build strong foundations in grammar, conversation, and writing while developing skills in rhetoric, clear communication, historical context, cultural interpretation, and institutional studies. Our professors motivate students to connect their French or Italian studies with broader European, transatlantic, and global contexts. The program prepares graduates for international careers in diplomacy, media, public service, education, healthcare, technology, environmental fields, and more.