The French major requires academic study in a French-speaking country of the student’s choice.
About Study Abroad
While classroom instruction significantly contributes to the acquisition of a second language, everyday, meaningful interaction with the target culture and people amounts to more effective learning. For this reason, the French major requires academic study, normally 8 credit hours for a summer program, 15-16 credit hours in a semester program, in a French-speaking country of the student’s choice. Students may choose to study for a semester or year abroad, or they may participate in a summer with approved programs that Wheaton does not offer.
The French section is, however, committed to providing students with the coursework and experiences needed to complete the major. Every other summer, groups of students head off to Quebec for the Wheaton in Quebec program. In addition to rigorous linguistic training, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Quebecois culture in the company of Wheaton professors who help you process your experience -- all the while keeping issues of faith in the forefront.
Students may choose to complete this requirement through the Wheaton in Québec program, or study for a semester or year abroad, or they may participate in a summer with approved programs that Wheaton does not offer.
Semester Programs
Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) Liberal Arts in Rennes, France
Experience a region of France that defies French stereotypes and offers authentic regional culture less than two hours from Paris. Learn more >
CIEE French and Critical Studies in Paris, France:
Bring your advanced French language skills to the City of Lights and immerse yourself in art, society, culture, and university life. Learn more >
Institute for American Universities (IAU) in Aix-en-Provence, France
IAU offers semester study abroad programs in the historic Provençal city of Aix-en-Provence, France. Located along the Mediterranean Sea, IAU allows students to experience the culture of the south of France. Learn more >
Summer Programs
Wheaton in Quebec
Wheaton in Québec is a language and culture program in the French-speaking province of Québec. Students spend four days in Montreal at the beginning of the program and then spend five weeks studying French and Québec culture - including its history, cinema, folklore, literature and song - at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi.
CIEE Summer Intensive French Language in Rennes, France:
Immerse yourself in the medieval flavor, idyllic setting, and rich culture of Rennes, the capital of Brittany. Learn More >
Institute for American Universities (IAU) in Aix-en-Provence, France
IAU offers summer study abroad programs in the historic Provençal city of Aix-en-Provence, France. Located along the Mediterranean Sea, IAU allows students to experience the culture of the south of France. Learn more >
Hear from French alumni about how this program enriched their time as a student and prepared them well for life after Wheaton.