BA/MA in French Language & Literature

This program gives students an opportunity to develop a coherent program with the following objectives: a knowledge of the major historical periods of specialization, of the critical approaches applicable in the study of the principal literary genres, and of some of the methods of analysis of linguistic phenomena, as well as a high level of proficiency in oral and written expression. For specific information, consult the director of graduate studies in the department. Please refer to BA/MA programs for general information about these programs.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Students may take courses to fulfill their language requirement or courses toward a French major or minor in the Boston University Study Abroad programs in Grenoble, Niamey, and Paris. In Grenoble, students enroll in intensive language courses and in university courses covering a broad curriculum. The BU center in Paris offers two programs: the Paris Contemporary Studies Program and the Paris Internship Program. Students in the Paris Contemporary Studies Program select three courses at the Université Paris 8 along with two courses at the center. Students in the Paris Internship Program take three courses at the center followed by an internship placement with accompanying academic work. The Niamey program includes some offerings in French language as part of a curriculum focused on development studies. Opportunities to take courses abroad taught in French are also available in BU’s international program in Geneva, and through exchange programs in Paris in the fields of management and political science. Additional information on these programs is available under Study Abroad and Internship Programs. Students should consult with a faculty advisor to determine which Study Abroad courses may fulfill major and minor requirements.

Placement Examination

A placement test is required of all students whose most recent course in French was taken in high school or at a college other than Boston University and who wish to continue their study of this language here. Information regarding online placement exams is available in the department or on the departmental website.