French and Francophone Studies
French and Francophone Studies / Study Abroad as a French Major

Study Abroad as a French Major

As a French major you are encouraged to consider incorporating an off-campus program as part of your academic program.

Study Abroad

Working with your academic advisor and the Office of International Education (OIE) you can plan an an experience that fits your academic and personal goals.

Why study abroad?

Students of all majors benefit from studying abroad. As a French major, you can:

  • enhance your French language skills in an immersion setting
  • develop and deepen your intercultural skills by living in France or a French-speaking country
  • broaden your world view and deepen your understanding of yourself
  • examine your values and beliefs in new ways
  • prepare for life after college by becoming a globally engaged citizen

How will study abroad count toward my major? Will it take me longer to graduate?

With planning, you can study abroad and graduate on time. Your academic advisor will help you to plan for study abroad and determine how many credits you may apply toward the major. Many students take general education and elective classes in addition to one or two credits in the major. This varies widely based on your program of interest and your individual degree requirements.

An OIE advisor can help you to find a program that matches your academic needs and helps you to meet your personal goals and interests as well.

When should I study abroad?

Programs are offered during the summer, fall or spring semester or for a full academic year.

French majors typically study abroad as juniors. Fall semester is the best choice within the major, if possible. Students who may need to study abroad in spring semester due to other commitments should discuss their situation with their academic advisor.

Summer programs are open to students at all levels, unless otherwise noted.

Can I afford to study abroad?

Yes! Willamette-sponsored semester programs are comparable in cost to being on campus for a semester and most forms of financial aid can be applied. See the OIE website for more details about program costs and additional expenses to consider.

Scholarships for study abroad are available and can be found on the OIE website. It is critical to begin to research scholarships early, even before you apply for study abroad.

How should I choose a program?

Explore! Just as you spent time researching colleges before deciding on Willamette, you will want to spend time investigating programs abroad to ensure a good fit.

  • Research class offerings to know whether there are classes that meet your academic needs.
  • Consider your personal goals for the experience and seek out programs that will help you to meet them.
  • Investigate which programs offer support services you may need during your time there.
  • Meet with your academic advisor
  • Meet with an OIE advisor

Programs recommended for French majors

The French department recommends the following programs for majors:

  • France: Lyon (Centre International d’Études Françaises (CIEF) at Université Lumière Lyon 2).
  • France:  Paris (Center for University Programs Abroad (CUPA))
  • France: Poitiers (Centre de Français Langue Étrangère (CFLE) at University of Poitiers)
  • France: ISEP, locations vary 
  • Reunion Island: ISEP
  • Switzerland:  ISEP, locations vary

Be sure to consult the OIE website for a full list of study abroad program options. Most programs are open to all majors.

 

Resources for study abroad:

Office of International Education

Visit the Office of International Education’s website to learn more about program options, scholarships how to apply and more.

Credit Considerations

French majors should consult their academic advisor about the courses they take abroad.