The Department of French and Romance Philology offers a major and concentration in French, as well as a major and concentration in French and Francophone studies. Students who are primarily interested in French literature should consider the major in French. Students who are interested in French history and civilization, and in the literature and culture of the Francophone world, should consider the major in French and Francophone studies.<br><br>The major in French gives students an in-depth familiarity with the language, culture, and literature of France and the French-speaking world. After completing the four-semester language requirement, students take courses in advanced grammar, and composition to refine their skills in reading, speaking, and writing French. In a required two-semester survey course (FREN UN3333-FREN UN3334), they receive a comprehensive overview of the development of French literature from the Middle Ages to the present day. After completing these core courses, French majors are encouraged to pursue individual interests, a wide range of language, literature, and cultural studies courses is available. Small classes and seminars allow for individual attention and enable students to work closely with faculty members. Advanced elective courses on French literature, history, philosophy, and cinema allow students to explore intellectual interests, perfect critical reading skills, and master close reading techniques. <br><br>The capstone course is the senior seminar, in which students study a range of texts and critical approaches and are encouraged to synthesize their learning in previous courses. The optional senior essay, written under the direction of a faculty member, introduces students to scholarly research. To be considered for departmental honors, students must complete the senior essay.