French Major

About our program

Develop linguistic proficiency in French — one of the most widely spoken languages in the world of business and diplomacy — and immerse yourself in the rich and diverse cultures of Francophone Africa, Asia, America and Europe. Plus, you’ll get hands-on experience with internships in Francophone countries and by collaborating with professors on research that dives deep into the heart of French literature, linguistics and culture. 

By the time you graduate, you'll not only be fluent in French but also equipped with a global perspective that empowers you to make a positive difference in the world and live a life full of purpose. 

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in French from Marquette?

This major prepares graduates to succeed in a variety of careers, including education, international affairs and business. About a third of our graduates pursue further education in law, medical or graduate schools. 

You'll find Marquette's foreign languages and literatures majors working in the following fields: 

  • Multinational firms
  • International banks
  • Foreign Service
  • Teaching in the United States and abroad
  • Translating and interpreting
  • International news agencies
  • Airlines

collage of a building and students talking to each other

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Professional experience

Explore professional possibilities through our internship office, where you’ll put your French skills to work in the Milwaukee community — or abroad in a Francophone country. 

Discover Arts and Sciences internship opportunities. 

Undergraduate research

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to follow your interests here, like volunteering with a faculty member whose research area intrigues you or completing your own independent study. 

Here are some of the topics our faculty are researching now: 

  • Immigration and American ethnic history 
  • Conflict studies 
  • Expressionism 
  • Museums, mobilities, tourism and leisure studies 

Learn more about research in the Languages, Literatures and Cultures department. 

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the drivers of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your French education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities from around the world. Other international opportunities are available for French students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research. 

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.