SVSU’s French program offers a comprehensive education in not only the language but the Francophone culture as a whole. Students explore specialized topics like translation, French professions, contemporary Francophone cultures and more. Life as a French major or minor includes immersive classroom experiences, interactions with native speakers, diverse study abroad opportunities and festive on-campus activities. Cardinals will receive a multicultural and comprehensive education to prepare them for the diversity of the world around them upon graduation!
French (BA)
French (BA)
About
The French program (available in a major or minor) unleashes a student’s potential to absorb the Francophone cultures, from its rich heritage all over the globe to its passionate, flowing language. With access to a comprehensive language lab, weekly conversation hours and so much more, students have every opportunity to evolve their language skills. Accomplished faculty members integrate technological resources, online tools and multimedia in their courses, ensuring that all students are able to engage with the French civilization in a variety of contexts and forms. SVSU welcomes students to embark on a one-of-a-kind experience of exploration and intrigue – and, ultimately, the discovery of themselves!
Cardinal Points
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Students studying French can study abroad to further their expertise and language skills.
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Multiple scholarships are available to students studying a foreign language, including Sebastian and Ida Ramet Endowed Scholarship for the study of foreign languages or cultures, the David E. Barker Endowed Scholarship for French majors and minors and an International Study Abroad Endowed Scholarship.
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The program is approved by the Michigan Department of Education and adheres to guidelines set by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
Highlighted Courses
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Key Electives
Click here to see a listing of programs
Programs
Majors
Other
Complementary Minors/Majors
Beyond The Books
Foreign Language Day
Since 1976, the Department of Modern Foreign Languages has sponsored an annual Foreign Language Day for high school students.
Active Student Organizations
Students have opportunities to join the Le nid des cardinaux, the International Student Club (ISC) and much more.
Learning Facilities
The Language Lab is equipped with Sony/Sans Virtuoso Major and Soloist software and is available to all language students. In addition, weekly French conversation hours are available in the lab.
After Graduation
- 2 % projected growth for employment of interpreters and translators through 2033. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics — Interpreters & Translators)
- $59,440 median yearly pay for interpreters and translators in May 2024. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- ‑1 % projected growth for employment of high‑school teachers through 2033. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics — High‑School Teachers)
- $64,580 median yearly pay for high‑school teachers in May 2024. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics)
With a Bachelor of Arts in French Language from SVSU, graduates achieve advanced French proficiency and intercultural communication skills—preparing for careers in translation and interpretation, teaching, international business, diplomacy, tourism, and graduate study.