Why Study French?
For English speakers, French is an easy language to learn. It is the second-most widely studied language in the world, only after English, and the third-most useful language for international business (Bloomberg, 2011; British Council, 2013).
Additionally, French is the fourth-most widely spoken language in the US and the fifth-most commonly spoken language worldwide. It’s the official language in 29 countries in Europe and Africa, spoken by over 270 million people across five continents. It’s also the official language of the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee, the International Red Cross, and the international courts.
Why Study French at UA?
At The University of Alabama, students have the opportunity to complete
- an undergraduate minor in French
- a foreign languages and literature (FLL) area of study in French
- a dual major in FLL-French and business
- a Master of Arts (MA) in Romance Languages with a concentration on French literature or linguistics
- an Accelerated Master’s Program for students who want to start working toward an MA while completing their undergraduate requirements
- a PhD in Romance languages with a concentration on French literature or linguistics
Want to declare a French minor or pursue an FLL degree with French as the area of study? Have general questions about French advising? View the following for information.
Opportunities for Students
We offer a highly regarded UA in France Summer Abroad Program in addition to semester and year abroad programs in France and Belgium. Students can volunteer to participate in our French Language Exploration Outreach Program (FLEX) to teach French once a week to children enrolled in 2nd, 3rd, & 4th grade at University Place Elementary school in Tuscaloosa. Students also have the option to participate in the Teaching Assistant Program in France. Throughout the fall and spring semesters, students are supported in their studies with access to free tutoring, a variety of cultural events and the Table Française (French conversation table).