Modern Languages - French
French language and culture are globally significant as the second most widely learned after English, with over 200 million speakers worldwide. Renowned for its literature, art, cinema, cuisine, and philosophy, French influences global intellectual and artistic movements. As an official language of major international organizations like the UN and EU, French proficiency is crucial for careers in diplomacy and global governance. France's universities offer academic excellence, enhancing opportunities in tourism, hospitality, fashion, and international business. Through cultural diplomacy, Alliances Françaises promote intercultural understanding, emphasizing French's role in global citizenship and professional advancement in today's interconnected world.
Students can take French courses to count toward their language requirements for the B.A., pursue a minor or a major in French, complete a secondary major in International and Area Studies, or pursue graduate studies in French.
Want to know more about French @K-State?
The Modern Languages department provides a diverse range of French courses, along with scholarships to support minors, majors, graduate studies, and students studying abroad. We also offer opportunities to earn free credits for prior language experience. Join us at our French Language Table to practice your French, engage in conversations, and connect with others. For further details, please contact:
Dr. Kathleen Antonioli |
Dr. Angélique Courbou |
Dr. Camille Meritan |
Requirements
French Minor Requirements
The French Minor requires 6 classes at and above French 3, and must include one literature course at the 500-level (FREN 520, 521 or 530 is recommended). Study Abroad and Retroactive Credit apply toward the French Minor.
- To declare or drop a French Minor, please use this form.
French Major Requirements
The French Major requires 11 classes (33 credits) of French courses at and above French 3, including a required literature course (FREN 520 or 521 or 530), and at least three 6/700-level courses.
A grade of “C” or better or a minimum 2.5 GPA is required in all French courses counted towards the major. Classes for the major cannot be taken Pass/Fail. Two non-transfer courses are required at the 700 level. Study Abroad and Retroactive Credit apply toward the French Major.
- To declare or drop a French Major, please use this form.
The French major with distinction requires 13 courses (39 credits) in French at and above level 3 (FREN 300), including one required literature courses at the 500-level (FREN 520 / 521 / 530 recommended), and at least four 6/700-level courses, and a 3.5 GPA in all courses taken toward the major.
Course Descriptions
See below our course descriptions and course schedule
Course Descriptions - Beginner
- Not sure which course you should begin with? Check our placement information.
- Do you know you can receive free credit for prior learning if you start above French 1, took AP classes or receive the Seal of Biliteracy? See our placement information for details.
Beginner courses (FREN 101 through 301) are offered in Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. See below for descriptions, contact Dr. Meritan if you have placement questions.
FREN 101 - French 1 |
French 102 - French 2 |
FREN 103 - Accelerated French 1 and 2: |
FREN 300 - French 3
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French 301 - French 4 |
Course Descriptions - Intermediate
Courses at the 500 level comprise our intermediate courses. All count toward the French Minor or Major, and many toward some basic requirements for BA and BS degrees (e.g.: Foreign Language requirements, Western Heritage, Literary/Rhetorical Arts).
If you begin courses at the 500-level or above, you are eligible to receive free retroactive credit for level 1 through 4 courses.
FREN 501 - Readings in French |
Introduction to reading French in a variety of genres including fiction, journalism, graphic novel, poetry, and more.
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FREN 503 - Composition and Grammar |
Develop French writing skills in a variety of genres. This course focuses on grammatical concepts useful for refining your French writing, and for improving your French writing overall.
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FREN 512 - French and Francophone Cinema
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Discover French and Francophone cinema from the earliest experiments with the Lumiere brothers until modern masterpieces of cinema.
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FREN 514 - Contemporary France |
Encounter the cultures of the French speaking world today—from France to Morocco, Senegal to Louisiana, Canada, the Carribean, and more.
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FREN 515 - History of French Culture
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Overview of topics in French culture from the medieval period to the present time. May include history, art, architecture, culture, and more.
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FREN 517 - Business French
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Learn about the business cultures of the French speaking world while also sharpening your skills in French speaking and writing. Learn grammar and vocabulary related to the French-language business world. Appropriate for students who have completed French 4 or equivalent, or who are currently enrolled in French 4. In French.
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FREN 518 - French Conversation |
Improve your spoken French through dedicated practice. Focus on real-life speaking situations, while also gaining knowledge of French culture. Prepare to study or travel in France or the Francophone world! Become a fun French party guest!
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FREN 520 - Introduction to French Literature (19th C. to present) |
Discover French literature from 1800-present in a variety of genres, including poetry, prose, theater, and film.
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FREN 521 - Introduction to French Literature (Medieval to 18th Century) |
Discover French literature from the medieval period through the French revolution.
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FREN 530 - Topics in French / Francophone Literature and Culture
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Topic for Summer 2023: Heroes and Villains What is a hero ? What is a villain ? In this summer course, we will analyze various representations of heroes and villains in the USA as well as in France and in the larger Francophone world. This course may include a variety of special topics in French or Francophone literature or culture. Past topics include: Paris 1913, Occupied France, Introduction to Francophone Literature, a Francophone Witch in Salem, Senegalese Letters, the French Revolution, French Children's Literature.
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Course Descriptions - Advanced
Most 700-level French courses have variable topics, meaning each semester the course may be different! See below some of the themes discussed in these courses.
- NOTE: Students should have completed at least two 500-level French courses prior to taking 700-level courses.