French

Why study French?

A major in French means a competitive edge in international careers, study-away opportunities and learning about everything from French fairy tales to films.

  • Since French is the official language of more than 32 countries and has more than 400 million speakers, students have boundless opportunities to use their language skills in professional, service and nonprofit areas.
  • This beautiful, analytical language develops critical thinking skills that are essential for effective communication and negotiation in the workplace.
  • French shares more than 6,000 vocabulary words with English, making French an easy foreign language for Americans to choose.
Languages, Literatures & Cultures Department Placement, Waivers & Credit Based on Prior Learning
student in France

Languages, Literatures & Cultures at AU

National French Honor Society

Established in 1906, Pi Delta Phi recognizes student achievement in the study of the French language, and of the literatures and cultures of the French-speaking world. Pi Delta Phi is certified by the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS). Five Augustana students were inducted into Pi Delta Phi, the collegiate National French Honor Society, during the 2024 spring and fall semesters: Pierce Cunningham, Aida Hoffelt, Riley Houseman, Molly Lienemann and Annaliese Wagers. The faculty advisor is Dr. Scott Fish.

NFHS

Beyond AU

Jeni Fjelstad '22, who majored in French and journalism, is an English language teaching assistant in Béziers, France. As a teaching assistant, she teaches historical, cultural and discussion-based lessons in middle and high schools, instructs more detailed lessons for European sections, leads conversations in English, serves as a resource in conversation groups and provides small group tutorials.

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Dr. Michael Rueter | Department Chair

Languages, Literatures & Cultures Department

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2023 NFHS Scholarship Students
Augustana Students Awarded National French Honor Society Scholarships

Two Augustana University students have been awarded national scholarships for study abroad by Pi Delta Phi — the National French Honor Society for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students.

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Highlights

French

Careers

Since French is an official working language of dozens of international organizations and France is a key foreign partner for the U.S., graduates can secure careers in international government, teaching, journalism, tourism, business and health care.

Hands-On Learning  

French students study away in:

Courses & Organizations

Foreign language test-out and spoken placement exams are available for incoming students looking to study French.

Recent advanced seminars include:

  • French cinema
  • Composition and conversation in Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables”
  • French fairy tales
  • Civilization and culture

As seniors, students should consider completing an honors thesis in French or applying to a post-graduate English teaching assistantship in France.

French majors often participate in:

  • Pi Delta Phi, the national French honor society
  • Le Cercle Français (French Club)
  • Augustana International Club
  • Serving and Learning Together (SALT)