French and Francophone Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in French and Francophone Studies provides a comprehensive exploration of the French language, literature, and the diverse cultures of Francophone regions. Students develop advanced linguistic skills while studying historical, social, and cultural contexts that shape France and French-speaking communities around the world. The program emphasizes both language mastery and critical analysis, enabling learners to engage deeply with literary texts, media, film, and contemporary cultural debates. By integrating language acquisition with interdisciplinary study, students gain the tools to understand the connections between language, society, and cultural expression.
Over the four-year program, students enhance their reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills while participating in research projects, language immersion, and cultural analyses. Coursework covers French literature, Francophone cinema, colonial and postcolonial studies, and sociolinguistics, allowing learners to develop cross-cultural insight and interpretive competence. The curriculum balances academic study with experiential learning, preparing students for careers in education, international organizations, translation, media, and further graduate study in language, literature, or cultural studies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: French and Francophone Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: French studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Language and Culture
• Elementary French Language
• Introduction to Francophone Cultures
• Academic Writing and Research Skills
• Survey of French Literature
Year 2 – Intermediate Language & Regional Perspectives
• Intermediate French Communication
• French and Francophone History
• Literature of France and Francophone Regions
• Methods in Cultural and Literary Analysis
Year 3 – Advanced Language & Specialized Study
• Advanced French Language and Composition
• Contemporary Francophone Literature and Media
• Francophone Society and Politics
• Electives in Translation, Linguistics, or Cultural Studies
Year 4 – Capstone & Research Integration
• Senior Research Seminar
• Independent Project or Cultural Field Study
• Advanced Readings in French and Francophone Literature
• Specialized Electives in Language, Culture, or Media
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for a wide range of professional roles that require strong language proficiency, cultural literacy, and analytical skills. Many pursue careers in international organizations, education and teaching, translation and interpretation, and media and communication, applying their understanding of French and Francophone cultures in professional and cross-cultural contexts. The program also provides a solid foundation for graduate studies in French, comparative literature, international relations, and cultural studies. By combining linguistic mastery with analytical and research experience, graduates gain the ability to work effectively in roles that require cross-cultural communication, cultural interpretation, and applied language expertise.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine advanced French language skills with a deep understanding of Francophone cultures, literature, and society. Its curriculum promotes critical thinking, cultural literacy, and analytical engagement through coursework, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities. Students develop strong interpretive and communication skills, exploring historical, literary, and contemporary cultural issues in depth. By integrating language mastery with interdisciplinary study, the program prepares learners for meaningful careers, graduate study, and professional roles that demand global cultural competence and applied expertise in French and Francophone contexts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
