A degree in French can be applied to many different career fields, such as business, communication, education, government and science. When you choose to study French at UIndy, you’ll learn more than just how to read and write the language, you’ll learn about the cultures, philosophies, history and business practices of French-speaking countries. All of this new knowledge will help you grow as a student, broaden your worldview and cultivate your talents and interests for the future. Many of our students go on to do amazing things that they had never dreamed they could accomplish.
- Courses that focus on French literature, culture, philosophy and business practices
- Several travel and study abroad opportunities through the Modern Languages Department
- Professors that are dedicated to helping you understand and hone your skills in French linguistics
- Opportunities for combining classroom work with service learning experiences
- Engagement with the French-speaking culture and community in Indianapolis
As a French major, you’ll have the opportunity to choose between two different track options: literature and business.
The literature track focuses on the literary and philosophical works associated with the French language. You can expect to develop an in-depth knowledge of culture and literature, and enhance your translation abilities.
In the business track, you’ll build upon your reading, writing and speaking skills, and be exposed to the international business world. Classes are designed to give you a scope of business expectations, environment and processes. Your education will still be focused on culture and literature, but you will also have the added knowledge of how business is conducted in a foreign country.
French language & literature majors have interned or worked for:
- Eli Lilly
- Rolls Royce
- Roche Diagnostics
Potential careers in French language & literature
Upon graduating from UIndy, you’ll have a comfortable grasp on the spoken and written language, solid preparation for multiple career fields and the ability to adapt to many different situations. Because you will be studying a subject that focuses on critical thinking and research, there is a wide variety of careers you can choose from:
- Teacher: Whether you are interested in teaching locally or abroad, having a degree in French can open up doors to many opportunities.
- Government work: The government often relies on those who can speak a different language when it comes to issues in immigration and foreign policy.
- Translation: One of the most common roles for those with degrees in a foreign language is that of translator or interpreter. Typically, these roles are needed for governments and international businesses.
- Graduate school: Having a degree in French will help you prepare for a variety of master’s degrees such as business, communication, political science, international relations and various fields in technology.
French language & literature might be for you if:
- You enjoy learning about new cultures
- You enjoy reading literature from other countries
- You have a desire to learn about foreign business practices
- You want to learn a new language
- You enjoy learning on your own and engaging with other students
- You have an interest in teaching a foreign language or a desire to teach abroad
These curriculum guides outline the different classes you will need to take as a French language & literature major. The general education guide provides a list of all the classes you need in order to fulfill UIndy’s general education requirements. The French language & literature guide lists the classes you’ll need to take to fulfill the major’s requirements. Be sure to take a look at both guides in order to get a complete picture of what your classes will look like at UIndy.