The Department of World Languages at Western Michigan University offers majors and minors in French.
Language majors must satisfy WMU's baccalaureate-level writing requirement by successfully completing World Literature in English Translation (LANG 3750) or East and West Literary Relations (LANG 4040).
Requirements for the major or minor may change with each new WMU undergraduate catalog. No student may graduate under a catalog that is more than 10 years old.
Only courses in which a grade of C or better is obtained will be counted toward a French major or minor.
Advising
We encourage you to make an appointment with an advisor of French if you have any questions about your French studies. As a major or minor, you are encouraged to meet each semester with your advisor of French as well as your curriculum advisor, typically in the College of Arts and Sciences or the College of Education and Human Development.
Tutoring
The department offers a variety of activities and support services to help you succeed, including language tables, tutoring, clubs and the occasional field trip.
Placement
Follow the placement guidelines to determine an appropriate course for your language studies.
Courses
French courses
Courses in English about French language and culture:
- Francophone Culture (FREN 2750)
- World Literature in English Translation: Views of Humanity (LANG 3750)
Student Success Resources
Student Success Services aims to help you attain continued success throughout your academic career. Multiple resources are available on campus to support you in this pursuit.
Activities
French Table
Wednesday, 5 to 6 p.m. in 3110 Sangren Hall, led by Ms. Juliane Sormain
Contact Dr. Vivan Steemers for more French activities and other updates.
Alliance Française de Kalamazoo
If you have a love of the French language and culture, we encourage you to join and participate in this local organization.
Study abroad
The department offers study abroad programs for French studies. If you desire to earn French credits through participation in a study abroad program, contact an advisor of French. A program must be approved before it is undertaken.
Meet students who have taken exciting study abroad journeys
Daniel S.
Major: French, secondary education
Minor: history
YouTube video
Erica P.
Major: French; film, video and media
YouTube video
Yatesha R.
Major: interpersonal communication
Minor: French
YouTube video
Amie M.
Major: French, biomedical sciences
Minor: chemistry
YouTube video
Elianna M.
Major: French, fashion design
YouTube video