FRENCH
Minor Programs
French is the language of fashion and fine cuisine, it’s the official language in 29 countries, and more than 274 million people speak French. It’s also the native tongue of some of the greatest literary, artistic and philosophical influences of all time: Moliére, Claude Monet, Victor Hugo, Jean-Paul Satre and Edith Piaf.
France is a key economic partner to the United States, and a minor in French can help open doors in global organizations that do business with the French-speaking world.
A French minor — coupled a major in business, education, or any other field — also paves the way for careers in teaching, translation, travel and tourism, and foreign service.
Over the next decade, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment opportunities will increase by 15% for international bank managers, 7% for postsecondary French teachers, and 2% for interpreters and translators.
Program and degree requirements
CAN WE BRAG A LITTLE?
50+ study abroad programs
Learn about fashion marketing in Paris. Immerse yourself in French culture in Cannes, Grenoble, or Aix-en-Provence. Study in the French Riviera. Find your fit among more than 50 study abroad programs in France.
Why study French at UW-Whitewater?
You’ll have the flexibility to earn your French minor along with any of UW-Whitewater’s majors to refine your skillset and prepare for life after college. A total of 12 credits is required to fulfill your French minor, allowing you to build out the rest of your class schedule as you see fit.
What our French students do
Participate in undergraduate research using an international travel grant
Practice French language skills through internships and community service
Immerse themselves in French culture while studying abroad
Hands-on learning experiences
The World Languages and Cultures programs at UW-Whitewater help students develop into global citizens of the world in a unique, deep and transformative way.
French students at UW-Whitewater learn by doing in many ways:
- Gain cross-cultural experience in various settings
- Practice conversational French in various settings
- Participate in undergraduate research working closely with a faculty member
- Work as a tutor or supplemental language instructor to help other students
Study abroad and cultural immersion
One of the most effective ways to gain cultural competency and improve your conversational skills is to live, work, and play in a French-speaking environment. Among our 50+ study abroad/study away options, you’ll find opportunities in:
- Aix-en-Provence, France
- Cannes, France
- Paris, France
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Meknes, Morocco
- St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
- St. Thomas, West Indies
UW-Whitewater offers a variety of other international experiences, including:
- Exchange programs
- International student teaching
- International service learning
- Faculty-led travel studies
The Travel Study program involves a semester-long course that culminates with a short-term, faculty-led trip. Options vary between semesters; topics and locations of interest to French students include Artists and Exiles in Paris, France.
Campus and community involvement
You’ll find student clubs and organizations that offer opportunities for French conversation or cultural interaction.
La Société Française (the French Club) meets weekly and often hosts meals at the French House in Madison and an annual banquet at Bassett House. The club also shows films and holds fundraisers — like crêpe sales!
Other related academic and service organizations include:
- International Student Association
- Pi Delta Phi, Epsilon Mu chapter (French honor society)
- Zeta Sigma Chi (a multicultural sorority)
What our graduates do
Work for multinational corporations and global NGOs
Take foreign service roles in (or to) French-speaking countries
Teach high school French
Careers: What can you do with a French minor?
UW-Whitewater graduates start their French careers in a variety of industries, including:
- Education
- Law
- International business
- Governmental service
- Journalism and media
Many students who study world languages also continue on to graduate school.
Hired Before Graduation
Hannah Jones, a 2024 graduate who minored in French, spoke highly of their experience traveling abroad and working with World Languages and Cultures faculty in being recognized through Hired Before Graduation. “Professor (Sheila) Turek has always made me feel seen and appreciated in her classes,” Jones said.
Want to learn more about minors in French?
262-472-1975 | wlc@uww.edu
Our French faculty
The diverse faculty and instructional academic staff members in UW-Whitewater’s World Languages and Cultures programs include:
- Respected scholars nationally and internationally
- Authors bestowed with international awards
- Distinguished alumni
- Instructors bestowed with teaching awards
Faculty members also represent many countries, including Egypt, Japan, Colombia, Mexico and Spain.
Our French faculty members have been honored for their excellence in teaching and service. They’re also actively publishing in peer-reviewed journals and mainstream media, leading study tours, and attending international events like the Cannes Film Festival.
UW-Whitewater’s World Languages and Culture offerings include the following undergraduate French options:
Minors:
In addition to UW-Whitewater’s general education requirements, you’ll take a variety of core and elective classes that will vary based on your major and chosen minor.
Here’s an example of classes French students may take:
- Contemporary French Society
- French Civilization
- Readings in Modern French
- Business French
- French Translation
- Special Studies: French Cinema
Students pursuing French education will complete courses and teaching placements required for state certification.
To apply, you’ll complete the UW-Whitewater standard application for admission and indicate your interest in a French minor.
If you’ve studied French in high school, you’ll take a placement test to determine the appropriate level for your first UW-Whitewater course. Native/heritage speakers should speak to the program coordinator for placement information.
