Why Study French at USC?
French is a global language, spoken by over 200 million people on five continents, and the second most useful non-English language for conducting business around the world. France is the world’s fifth biggest economy and the third most important destination for foreign investment worldwide. French is also an official language of the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee, and the international courts.
Studying French opens doors to a world of literature, film, art, and thought of extraordinary richness. Twenty-first century careers require culturally-competent critical thinkers with strong communication and language skills, and a major or minor in French prepares students to succeed in our diverse, multilingual, and globalized world.
As a student of French at USC, you will have the opportunity to learn not just about the culture, literature, and society of France within the context of European history, but also to work closely with specialists in Francophone North Africa and the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia as you explore topics ranging from Renaissance culture to French hip-hop; from to critical theory to Islam in France. You will also have the opportunity to
- to study abroad in Paris, Dijon, and/or Martinique
- to participate in the student-run French Club
- to write an honors thesis and be inducted into the French National Honors Society
- to participate in our departmental “Salons Culturels” .
- to take a course in Business French course and obtain a diploma offered by the French Chamber of Commerce
- to attend special events, talks, and conferences co-sponsored by the French Consulate in Los Angeles.
- to take advantage of a wide range of scholarships, internships and pre-professional opportunities
- Use your USC Dornsife French BA to create an incredible international career: read Kate McCutchen’s (French, 2004) story here.
We look forward to welcoming you to French studies at USC!
