Where will French take you?
French is widely spoken on all continents as a native or second language and is used internationally for government, business and education. It’s the official language of many international organizations. By 2050, there will be an estimated 750 million French speakers thanks to a demographic boom in francophone Africa.
The Bachelor of Arts in Modern Language, with an Emphasis in French at UMSL is earned through our College of Arts and Sciences, the academic core of the University of Missouri ̶ St. Louis. Through academic programs offered on- and off- campus, traditional and nontraditional students gain knowledge, skills and intellectual leadership for a variety of career paths, advanced study and research in many academic disciplines.
Program type:
Major, BA
Format:
On-Campus
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Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages -
French Emphasis
The Bachelor of Arts in Modern Language, with an Emphasis in French develops linguistically and culturally competent and ready-to-be global citizens. UMSL offers a broad range of coursework in French: foundational courses in language and culture, courses focused on the many facets of literature and culture and pre-professional courses, all aimed at developing skills for the 21st century.
The dedicated Modern Language faculty engages learners in and out of the classroom. Expect a challenging, collaborative, and interactive environment in every course. Students are part of a larger learning community connected through our conversation group, numerous activities and study abroad experiences.
Outcomes and Career Outlook
Upon completion of the BA in Modern Language, with an Emphasis in French, graduates will possess the necessary linguistic and cultural competencies to interact with native speakers in culturally appropriate ways; use the target language in a variety of academic, social and professional situations and have a rich understanding of the target culture; be able to critically explore their own assumptions, value alternative perspectives and act with cultural sensitivity; meet the challenges of a globalized world and continue developing their skills as lifelong learners.
72,000
10
Career Opportunities
- Foreign Correspondent
- Foreign Service Officer
- International Analyst
- International Business Consultant
- International Travel or Study Coordinator
- NGO Specialist
- Translator/Interpreter/Localizer
Plan of study
All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements.
Review Full Degree Requirements Review Sample Four-Year Plan Download 4-Year Academic Map
Non-Missouri Residents: Prospective students are responsible for reviewing the NC-SARA state authorizations page to see if this program is offered in their state throughout their program and to review the licensure or certification requirements for the state in which they reside.
Native Speakers
For departmental purposes, native speakers are defined as individuals who completed their secondary education or above in the target language. Students will submit an official transcript to the University.
The Modern Language Minor is not an option for Native speakers.
The Modern Language Major for emphasis areas in French, Japanese and Spanish:
- Native speakers will complete 3 classes at the 4xxx-level and at least 3 classes at the 3xxx or above. AND, FL2100 (3) and FL2294 (1). Total numbers of credits: 22 credits total, including FL2100 and FL2294.
For Dual Language Professional emphasis area:
- Please see a content-area advisor for more information.
- Native speakers will complete 3 classes at the 4xxx-level and at least 3 classes at the 3xxx or above. AND, FL2100 (3) and FL2294 (1). Total numbers of credits: 22 credits total, including FL2100 and FL2294.
Heritage Speakers
For departmental purposes, heritage speakers are defined as individuals who have been raised in a family or social environment in which the target language is habitually used for day-to-day communication but have not completed their secondary schooling in the target language.
The French Minor, Spanish Minor and Japanese Minor: Students will take a nationally-normed proficiency test (STAMP or equivalent) to determine placement:
- Students who receive a score at or above Intermediate Mid across all skills (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) must complete 9 credits in the language, including the following courses:
- Any 3-credit hour course at the 2xxx level above 2101
- Any 2 3-credit hour courses at the 3xxx level or above
- Students who receive a score below Intermediate Mid in any skill must meet with an advisor to determine proper placement.
The Modern Language Major: Students will take a nationally-normed proficiency test (STAMP or equivalent) to determine placement:
- Students who receive a score at or above the Intermediate High level of proficiency in speaking, and listening, and at or above the Intermediate-Mid level of proficiency in reading and writing will be eligible to pursue the requirements of the Modern Language Major at the 3xxx and 4xxx levels. Total number of credits: 28 in Spanish or French, (XX in Japanese) including FL2100 and FL2294.
- Students who receive a score below Intermediate Mid in any skill must meet with an advisor to determine proper placement.
Student organizations
Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of our Recognized Student Organizations. Here are several opportunities you may be interested in as a French major:
- Lingua
- Student Government Association
- Students of the University of Missouri
Honors College
The UMSL Honors College is a certificate program that can be paired with any major without adding extra classes or extending time to graduate. Classes in the Honors College are seminar-style, meaning that they are based in reading, writing, discussion, and critical thinking. This unique class format fosters an intellectual climate centered around democracy, diversity, civility and academic excellence.
Undergraduate research
We encourage and support students as they engage in exciting activities in and outside of the classroom that enrich their academic and professional understanding of their chosen area of study. All majors are encouraged to participate in Undergraduate Research and Scholarship to produce discipline-specific intellectual or creative innovations to their field.
