Foreign Language Placement

Students who have completed three or more years of a French in high school are required to take the language placement exam before taking a course in French. Students who took two years of French in high school in a strong program are highly recommended but not required to take the placement exam. Students who received dual enrollment or AP credit in French, or who transferred in college credit in French are not required to take the exam. It is highly recommended that students take the placement exam within one year of enrolling at Benedictine College, as this is when their previous language experience will be strongest. Students may not take the placement exam more than once. The placement exam is regularly scheduled at the beginning of the semester, during registration, and during SOAR weekends. See the academic calendar for specific dates. For more information, contact the Chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures or Admission Office.

Study Abroad

The Department of World Languages and Cultures sponsors several study abroad programs to provide students with an opportunity for immersion in French. Students majoring in French are required to have an immersion experience abroad in French, either through studying, completing an internship, doing service-learning, or volunteering abroad. This requirement may be waived for students who already demonstrate advanced proficiency in the language or who have substantial immersion experience in the target language.

The department sponsors a study abroad program in Lyon, France. Students also have the option of participating in an exchange program through the College’s affiliation with ISEP, or through the exchange program at ICES in La Roche-sur-Yon, France; these programs are administered by the International Programs office.

Some language courses are offered on an alternate semester or yearly basis. Those who choose to major or minor in a foreign language should consult with an advisor in the department and declare their course of study as early as possible so as to follow the recommended schedule of classes.

Program Mission

The mission of the French Program is to develop proficient communicators in and translators and readers of French. Learners will also demonstrate knowledge of the structure of the French language and of the cultures, history, and literatures of the Francophone world.

Program Outcomes

1. Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in interpersonal communication in French.
2. Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in presentational communication—writing in French.
3. Graduates will use French in interpersonal communication that is appropriate to the context and the intended audience.
4. Graduates will demonstrate an awareness of Francophone cultures and how they shape perceptions, practices, and cultural products.
5. Graduates will be able to recognize and express understanding of difference, express a respect for the perspectives of others, and critically reflect on their own worldview.

Program Requirements

Transfer students who intend to major or minor in French must take a minimum of 50% of the 3000-level and above courses required for the major either at Benedictine College or through one of our approved study abroad programs.

Prospective Teachers in French

The student will complete the French major that will normally include the requirements for the major outlined above. In addition, the student will complete FORL-4457 Methods of Teaching Foreign Languages. The student will also complete the requirements for teacher certification outlined under Education.

Suggested Sequence of Courses for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in French

Please note that students majoring in French are strongly encouraged to double major; thus courses indicated as electives would ideally fulfill another major.

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To include FREN-3610 French Civilization

Fulfilling Foundations

Note there are several courses in the major that fulfill foundations.