The undergraduate program of Northwestern’s French department reflects this diversity through a multidisciplinary approach, offering courses, both in English and French, in literature, cinema, theater, as well as philosophy, literary theory, cultural history, and political thought, ranging from the Medieval period to contemporary French and Francophone cultures. Whether beginner or advanced, students have a wide choice of language courses, including career-specific business French. In a world where cultures interact with much more frequency and intensity, learning French, a language spoken by millions in the Americas, Africa, Europe and the Middle East, is an indispensable asset for those interested in careers as varied as business, global health, media, and tourism.

The requirements for the major are flexible, allowing students to choose their courses according to their interests; many students who major in French are double majors. Students who intend to major are encouraged to consider a stay in France, preferably a Junior Year Abroad, though a semester or a summer program are viable options too.