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About the Program

Why French?

France has one of the richest European histories, cultures, and literatures, and its artistic and philosophical thought has had a great impact on Western civilization. French was for a long time the language of international diplomacy, and continues to be widely spoken throughout the world. It is the official language of more than 20 countries and is, with English, the only language spoken on all five continents. Historically, France and the French language have had an enormous influence on American society.

Basic French language training

The first and second year courses (FREN 1501, FREN 1502, FREN 2301, FREN 2302) work with MCL’s Language Acquisition Center (LAC) to provide credit for foreign language requirements.

These courses also prepare students for advanced level courses in language, culture and civilization, and literature. Contact Nina Tucci for more information.

The French major

The French Program at the University of Houston offers an undergraduate course of studies leading to the degree of Bachelor of Arts, preparing students for further study in French, such as a Master’s or a Ph.D., for the teaching profession, or for business and government careers. Complete information is on our degree programs page or contact Claudine Giachetti .

French minors

French Language Minor

The French minor requires 15 semester hours, of which 12 must be advanced, including 3 hours at the 4000 level. At least 9 of the advanced semester hours must be completed in residence, with a 2.00 minimum GPA on all French courses attempted at UH.

Minor in French for Business

This minor in business-related professions requires 15 semester hours, of which 12 must be advanced, including FREN 3316, FREN 3317, and FREN 4317. Students who choose this minor, with a major in a field leading to a career in a business-related profession, may apply for a summer internship abroad, after completing 12 advanced hours in the major and in French. They must also earn a minimum of 2.00 GPA on all French courses attempted at UH. Contact Claudine Giachetti for more information.

World Cultures & Literatures

18 units, including a 9-unit concentration in European or Francophone Studies or in French Literature, French business and/or French Studies. Up to six units from another major or minor—concentration approved by WCL director. Visit the WCL web site for more information.

Master's Program

MCL’s full-time Master’s degree program in French Language and Literature is currently suspended due to budgetary restrictions. However, individual arrangements can be made for graduate credit options, which are available upon request. If demand for a more developed program increases, graduate offerings may also increase.

For more information on graduate credit options,contact Claudine Giachetti; for a more detailed description of all courses and options, consult the UH catalog, or the MCL web site.

Study Abroad Opportunities

The French program has sponsored a summer program in France for over 20 years. The present location of the French summer program is Angers, a university town of 30,000 students, voted “most attractive city in France.” Classes are held at the Université Catholique de l’Ouest, where students may earn 6 credit hours at the intermediate or advanced levels, and participate in 3-4 excursions to Paris as well as other well-known sites in France. Contact Claudine Giachetti for more information.

Scholarships

For further study abroad and scholarship options, consult the Office of International Studies & Programs.