World Languages and Cultures
French Studies
Everything you need to know about the French Studies Program at CWU
Explore French Language, Culture, and Global Connections
The French Studies program at Central Washington University offers students the opportunity to complete one year of French language study and pursue a French Studies minor that can be strengthened through study abroad. Our courses introduce students to the French language and to the diverse cultures, histories, arts, and societies of the French-speaking world.
French at CWU is designed for students who want to build language skills, expand their cultural knowledge, meet graduation requirements, and prepare for international, professional, and personal opportunities. Students may also combine French with another major or another area connected to world languages, global studies, education, business, the arts, or the social sciences.
Why Study French?
A World Language
French is spoken by more than 300 million people across five continents and remains one of the most widely studied languages in the world. Studying French can support careers in education, international relations, business, tourism, public service, arts and culture, and global communication. It also gives students access to rich literary, artistic, musical, culinary, and cultural traditions across France, Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and other French-speaking regions.
First-Year French Sequence
Students with no previous experience in French should begin with the first-year sequence:
- FR 151: First-Year French I — Fall quarter, 5 credits
- FR 152: First-Year French II — Winter quarter, 5 credits
- FR 153: First-Year French III — Spring quarter, 5 credits
- FR 200: GE K2 — Spring quarter, 5 credits
French Minor
CWU currently offers a French Studies minor by adding Study Abroad to the first year of French for students who wish to continue developing their French language or 15 credits of cultural studies coursework for those who wish to develop their cultural knowledge. The minor pairs well with many majors and can support students interested in international study, graduate school, teaching, travel, global careers, or cross-cultural work.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Students interested in deepening their French language skills are encouraged to consider study abroad. CWU students may explore opportunities in French-speaking locations through exchange programs and affiliated study abroad providers. Study abroad can be a meaningful way to strengthen language learning, experience French-speaking cultures firsthand, and enhance the French minor.
Students are encouraged to contact the Office of International Studies and Programs and the French faculty mentor to discuss available programs, scholarships, and how study abroad coursework may apply to the French minor.
Advising
Students interested in French should speak with a World Languages and Cultures advisor or the department chair to discuss placement, course sequencing, the French minor, and study abroad options.
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