French Language and Culture Major
The majors in French, Japanese and Spanish Language and Culture offer students opportunities to effectively develop cultural and linguistic abilities to function productively in the global, 21st century world in an array of fields where language and intercultural competencies are critical.
All department minors must take an appropriate 300 level class upon return to complete requirements. 20-22 credits are generally required for minors.
French Language and Culture Track
The major and minor in French Language and Culture help students develop the linguistic and cultural tools to deal with diverse communities and develop intercultural skills highly sought in an array of careers. The major, with its study abroad components, exposes students to a rich history, diverse groups and linguistic variety throughout the French Speaking world—France, Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and North America. Students with prior experience in French language must take a placement test before beginning French courses. Starting with 301, courses introduce students to cultural, linguistic, literary and artistic topics that allow them to develop communication skills at an advanced level.
Requirements
Degree Requirements
This major is available as a bachelor of arts degree only, as defined in the section on degree requirements for all majors in this catalog.
Major Requirements
41 credits
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Departmental Core | ||
| GLCS 210 | LANGUAGE AND CULTURE IN GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE (before going abroad) | 4 |
| GLCS 280 | CROSS-CULTURAL & LINGUISTIC SKILLS FOR STUDY ABROAD (before going abroad) | 2 |
| GLCS 380 | ABROAD PORTFOLIO (while abroad) | 2 |
| GLCS 483 | ADVANCED CROSS-CULTURAL SEMINAR (during the senior year) | 5 |
| Language Courses | ||
| Select a minimum of 8 credits of the following (according to placement): | 8 | |
| FRENCH CULTURE & FREE EXPRESSION | ||
| FRENCH COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION I | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO FRENCH AND FRANCOPHONE STUDIES | ||
| Study Abroad and Cultural Studies Courses | ||
| Select 20 credits | 20 | |
| Total Credits | 41 | |
- Study abroad for one or two semesters in a Linfield approved program in France is normally required.
- Up to 20 credits (in addition to ABROAD PORTFOLIO (GLCS 380)) from a year abroad may be applied toward the major.
- Up to 12 credits (in addition to ABROAD PORTFOLIO (GLCS 380)) from a semester abroad may be applied toward the major.
- Courses taken abroad must be related to French/Francophone literature, culture, and language, and chosen in consultation with major advisor and approved by Department Chair.
- TOPICS IN FRANOPHONE LITERATURE AND CULTURE IN ENGLISH (GLFR 250), TOPICS IN FRENCH LITERATURE (GLFR 350), INTRODUCTION TO AFRICAN STUDIES (GLFA 230), or other appropriate GLCS courses (as approved by Department Chair).
By departmental invitation, students may write a senior thesis: SENIOR THESIS (GLCS 490) (2 credits).
Courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher to count toward the major.
Study Abroad
Candidates for the major who start at the level of 301 may study only one semester in France. For students with extenuating circumstances, the study abroad requirement may be waived provided they demonstrate advanced proficiency and significant contact with French-Speaking cultures. Because students take courses in the host language, they should complete course work up to the 301-302 level before undertaking foreign study. Students must consult with the French faculty early in the process, before choosing a study abroad site.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Communicate effectively in the target language of study on a variety of topics related to interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes, both in academic and professional contexts and in a culturally appropriate fashion.
- Critically analyze through cultural products such as film, literature and other media, cultural practices and historical contexts that have shaped the target culture.
- Develop an understanding of and respect for diverse values and perspectives as portrayed in the communities of the target culture.
- Engage in civic learning to gain insights into global and local citizenry.
- Reflect upon personal experiences in the target culture to transfer learning to new, complex situations.
Oregon Preliminary Teaching Licensure in French or Spanish
Students who are also seeking an Oregon Preliminary Teaching License must also complete a Secondary Education major with Licensure. In order to complete the Secondary Education major with Licensure, students should begin taking education courses no later than their sophomore year. The student must be advised by faculty in both majors. Alternatively, students may complete a Teaching Certificate program at Linfield after degree completion. Students should seek advice from the Education Department Director if you are considering the post-graduation certificate option.