Students who wish to earn a degree in French can choose from many different degree options. The language departments of many 4-year colleges and universities offer French.
Schools with French Language Programs
The following public institutions offer degree programs in the French language:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Undergraduate Tuition (2015-2016)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $6,368 (In-state); $22,467 (Out-of-state) |
| Texas A&M | College Station, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $10,176 (In-state); $28,768 (Out-of-state) |
| Ohio State University | Columbus, OH | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Ph.D. | $10,037 (In-state); $27,365 (Out-of-state) |
| Arizona State University | Tempe, AZ | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's | $10,158 (In-state); $25,458 (Out-of-state) |
| Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D. | $13,560 (In-state); $36,360 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Texas | Austin, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D. | $9,806 (In-state); $34,676 (Out-of-state) |
| Rutgers University | Newark, NJ | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D. | $13,597 (In-state); $28,987 (Out-of-state) |
| California State University--Fullerton | Fullerton, CA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $6,437 (In-state); $17,597 (Out-of-state) |
| Indiana University--Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D. | $10,388 (In-state); $33,741 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D. | $15,054 (In-state); $30,214 (Out-of-state) |
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics
School Selection Criteria
Important considerations for students selecting a French language program:
- In order to benefit fully from personal attention and achieve career goals, students should take into account general features of a school, like class sizes, reputable faculty and reputation.
- Students looking for programs that will boost French learning and immersion in a foreign culture should look into the many programs that offer immersive study abroad opportunities lasting from 3-12 months.
- A solid understanding of your career path can help determine if an undergraduate or graduate program will best serve your goals.
- Students should look for programs with native French speakers on faculty, or faculty members that have spent ample time immersed in the language and culture.
Bachelor's Degree Programs
Many colleges and universities provide a bachelor's in French. Aspiring French teachers may consider attending a school that offers a degree in French with a teaching certification. Those interested in political, social or community service careers may find programs with study-abroad opportunities that prepare them for jobs as translators and interpreters.
Master's Degree Programs
French language experts who wish to pursue academic or advanced professional careers need a master's degree as the minimum educational requirement. Some programs feature guest speakers and lecturers, and many offer exchange programs with foreign universities. Working professionals who wish to earn a master's degree may find schools that offer night, weekend or online classes. Master's-level education in French culture and literature often requires fluency in French language prior to enrollment.
Doctorate Degree Programs
Doctoral programs often lead to careers in academia. Students must be proficient in the French language, and may need fluency in one or more additional languages. Students might be required to participate in teaching assistantships.
Undergraduate and graduate degree programs in French are available at many 4-year universities and colleges in the United States. Students should look for programs with study abroad opportunities, faculty experience, and consider their career goals when they are selecting a school to attend.
