Francophone Studies

Francophone Studies

What is Francophone Studies?
This is a general program that focuses on the French language and related dialects and creoles. You will learn to speak, listen to, read, and write the language you are studying. You will learn the grammar, syntax, punctuation, and pronunciation of the language. Also you will study the culture and literature produced in the country and in other areas where the language is spoken. In this way you will learn the importance of the language and you will develop a sensitivity and appreciation for the culture.

Foreign languages and literatures free the individual to discover the content and value of other cultures, to enrich personal experiences through contacts with others on their own terms, and to enter into worlds of thought and expression that would otherwise be inaccessible. Languages thus play a key part in reducing ethnocentricity.

In an age when almost instant communication links the peoples of the world, when the relationships among nations are evolving rapidly and when Americans are increasingly aware of the riches of their diverse cultural heritage, the ability to use a second language acquires a new importance. Any level of proficiency in a foreign language supports both international understanding and basic contacts with various language groups in the United States. High-level ability promotes meaningful, accurate communication.

Working in Francophone Studies
Characteristics and Skills Necessary for Success

• Desire to learn about French people and culture
• Good ear for language and communication patterns
• Good communication skills both orally and written
• Desire to study abroad

Click HERE for a table on Career Areas, Employers, and Strategies for Employment

Sample Job Titles
French Teacher
Travel Guide
Foreign Service Officer
International Trade Economist
Interpreter/Translator
Speech Pathologist
Foreign Social Worker
Customs Inspector

Learning More About Francophone Studies

• Visit the Career Services office and check out our Career Resource Library
• Visit the SLU Modern Languages and Literatures Department website
• Check out Modern Language and Literature course descriptions in the Catalog
• Talk with a professor in Modern Languages and Literature about the major. Click here for a list of possible questions to ask.
• Perform an informational interview with a professional in the field. Click here for information on how to find a professional, contacting them, and a list of possible questions.
• Get connected with SLU alum in the field through SAINTSLink, participate in Shadow-a-Saint or complete an Internship.

Additional Resources

• Professional Associations
  • International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language
  • Association of International Educators
  • Council on International Educational Exchange
  • American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
  • Foreign Policy Association Student Corner
  • *American Translators Association
  • National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators
  • National Council on Interpreting in Health Care


• Occupational Outlook Information
  • Interpreters and Translators
  • Teachers-Preschool, Kindergarten, Middle, and Secondary
  • Teachers-Postsecondary
  • Flight Attendants
  • Educational Services Industry Guide
  • Federal Government Industry Guide
  • Arts, Entertainment and Recreation Industry Guide


• Miscellaneous Career Information
  • Spotlight on Careers
  • *World Languages and Cultures Career Resources
  • *Information on Work, Study, Volunteer and Travel Opportunities Abroad from One Small Planet
  • Transitions Abroad
  • International Teaching from the Educator's Reference Desk
  • Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
  • *Careers in Languages from Wake Forest University
  • The Riley Guide International Resources
  • Overseas Employment Information
  • American Institute for Foreign Study
  • Volunteers Abroad
  • Foreign Language Jobs with the Federal Government
  • International Relations Jobs with the Federal Government
  • U.S. Department of State
  • Peace Corps
  • United Nations


• Job Postings
  • OverseasJobs.com
  • Monster Work Abroad
  • JobsAbroad.com
  • International Staffing Consultants
  • Lat Pro
  • TwoLingos.com

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