French is spoken on five continents by over 200 million people in 43 countries in Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. It is an official working language of the United Nations, UNESCO, the International Red Cross, the International Monetary Fund, the Council of Europe, and European Union, and other international organizations.

Moreover, it is an indispensable vehicle for understanding the literature and culture of France, Belgium, Qu?bec, Haiti, North Africa, West Africa, and many other regions. French is the second most studied foreign language in the United States and Europe.

The study of French, therefore, not only allows entry into a community of speakers endowed with a rich and diverse culture, but also it enhances employment opportunities in such fields as international business, international agencies, the diplomatic service, hotel management, travel and tourism, international law, education and many more. Many French Studies majors opt as well to pursue their passion for language, literature and culture at the graduate level.