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Beside the courses conceived to enhance proficiency in French (e.g. language and translation courses), the Department of French Studies offers the following types of courses: Literature, Linguistics, Civilization, as well as courses focused on the usages of French in various professional environments (e.g. Business French, French at Work, French for the Media, French for Public Administration, French for Health Care Professionals, etc.).
Understanding literature involves a highly specialized form of reading which not only develops knowledge of people and cultures outside of our own personal experience, but also the skills and techniques of problem-solving, inferential and conceptual thinking, critical analysis, synthesis and logic. Good readers are not only great writers but excellent thinkers as well. The research and communication skills that are required of the student of literature translate naturally into both personal and professional life.
Linguistics, the scientific study of the language, enhances the students’ academic program with critical and analytical skills while contributing to your better understanding of human language (French, English and others), not simply from a grammatical or spoken perspective but also from a scientific approach.
Phonetics and phonology (the study of the distinctive sounds of French) provide an understanding of the mechanics of tone, accentuation and articulation that can enhance the pronunciation of French and other languages. The study of syntax (word order and sentence structure) helps to understand both what French has in common with other languages and what makes it unique. The study of morphology (the forms and functions of words) and semantics (word and sentence meanings) complements the understanding of French and how it is related and yet different from other languages.
The courses focused on the usages of French in various professional environments provide students with the opportunity to apply and expend their knowledge of French while exploring specific workplace situations.
Discipline specific knowledge is only one of the many benefits of pursuing an undergraduate degree. However, this knowledge alone is not enough to prepare you for entering the world of work. You will discover that the content of your degree does not restrict your job opportunities.
Being aware of the transferable skills you've developed throughout your studies will better prepare you for entering the job market and allow you to articulate the skills that are so valued by employers.
The ability to comprehend the thoughts and ideas of people from other times and places and give expression to these ideas in modern terms with relevant historical context
The ability to compile and organize facts and information and to comprehend and apply new and/or unfamiliar information to different situations and settings
The ability to learn, understand and interpret information and apply knowledge to new situations
Skills enabling you to work effectively as part of a team by identifying your role and contributing, through leading, teaching, motivating and/or encouraging others, to the success of the team
For a more complete list of transferable skills click here.