Expand your perspectives and hone your French language skills as you prepare for a career in education, business, community engagement, and beyond.

Why Study the French Language, Culture, and Literature at UNC Asheville?

Ellen Bailey teaching a French Class

Learn the French Language From Experts

Many of our faculty are native speakers of the language they teach, and others bring extensive experience from travels abroad. These educators lead courses on the foundations of the French language and impart their first-hand knowledge to students, contributing to UNC Asheville’s vibrant learning environment. Our students flourish in mentoring relationships with faculty and hone their skills through conversation and collaboration beyond the lecture hall.

Outside the Classroom

At UNC Asheville, students’ education extends beyond the bounds of the classroom. We have exchange relationships and associations with universities and cultural institutions in France, and we encourage students to study abroad to enrich their experience. Students also actively participate in our language club and tutoring sessions.

overhead shot of five students sitting on the grass in a circle

Language Club

At the French Conversation Table, all students are welcome, regardless of language proficiency, major, or concentration. This space provides students with the opportunity to converse with their peers and practice their language skills in practical ways.

Pi Delta Phi

Pi Delta Phi, established in 1906, is the French National Honor Society for undergraduate and graduate students at accredited U.S. public and private colleges and universities. The Society recognizes outstanding scholarship in the French language and its literature to increase the knowledge and appreciation for the cultural contributions of the French-speaking world. It also encourages French and francophone cultural activities across the community.

A student practicing Portuguese with a professor

Tutoring

We set students up for success by providing tutoring sessions regularly. These optional meetings supplement their education and enable them to strengthen their grasp of the language. The Department holds tutoring sessions twice per week and encourages students at all stages of their college career to lean on this tool whenever needed.

French Faculty

Get to know our faculty members who bring unique backgrounds and experiences to the classroom. Our French faculty have research interests that include relationships between language and gender, twentieth-century literature and cultural history, conversation, composition, translation, and more.

French Language Careers & Outcomes

Studying French can open up various career opportunities, as language skills are valuable in many professional fields. Some career options include translator, interpreter, or language teacher. With the skills they gain in the languages and literatures major, students in the French minor bring a robust set of abilities to their workplace, including written and verbal communication, cultural awareness, analysis and interpretation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

UNC Asheville French minor students have obtained highly sought-after positions at both local and national institutions, as well as acceptance to graduate school.

Related Programs

Expand Your Horizons in the French Minor at UNC Asheville

As a student in the French minor, you engage in dynamic and interactive language courses led by passionate instructors dedicated to your success. Beyond the classroom, unlock opportunities to apply your language skills and cultural knowledge through study abroad programs, our student club, and more as you connect with UNC Asheville’s vibrant community and explore French literature, art, history, and culture.

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