During the three-week faculty-led immersion program held in the cities of Strasbourg and Paris, students complete projects and activities that prepare them for their visits and excursions, enhance their abilities to communicate with the local population, and deepen their cultural competence. To further increase their linguistic proficiency, students also attend classes at Institut Stralang and meet regularly with a French conversation partner.
Highlights
Highlights of past programs include:
- Visits of century-old historical wonders in the Alsace and the Île-de-France regions such as the famous cathedrals of Notre Dame de Strasbourg and Notre Dame de Paris, the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle and Palace of Versailles.
- Scenic boat tours on the Ill River around the historic center of Strasbourg and the Seine River in Paris, including a visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower;
- A day on the Alsatian Wine Road with visits to the charming cities such as Riquewihr, Colmar, Kayserberg, and more;
- Cooking an authentic French meal under the direction of the chefs at Cuisine Aptitude;
- Some group meals to taste the Alsatian regional food specialties and enjoy a gourmet meal with a panoramic view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower;
- A walk to Germany across the Pont de l’Europe and a visit to the Jardin des deux rives
- Attending plenary sessions at the European Parliament and touring the ultra-modern building, and much, much more.
Academics
Undergraduate students must have minimally completed French 1002 to participate. All undergraduate students enrolled in the program will earn 6 credit hours towards their degree by the program:
- French 2199 (3 credits)
- French 3199 (3 credits)
Students who have completed French 1002 must meet with a content advisor to decide which course will count toward their language requirement or a minor or major in French.
For students who have completed French 2101 or above, French 3199 will fulfill one course requirement toward the minor or major and French 2199 will count toward general elective credit.
Graduate Students take one course and earn 3 credit hours.
- French 5199 (3 credits)
How to Apply
For more information on the program and scholarships available, or to apply, please visit UMSL Study Abroad or contact Professors Sandy Trapani at trapani@umsl.edu or Violaine White at whitevd@umsl.edu.
