The study of French and Francophone language, literature, culture, cinema, linguistics and intercultural competence. In addition to reading, speaking and writing proficiency in the language, the French major offers students knowledge of great works of literature, philosophy, history, film and popular culture from the French speaking world. French is an analytical language which structures thought and develops critical thinking for graduate school and the job market. Spoken by more than 200 million people on the five continents, French is the second most widely learned foreign language after English. Due to the economic growth of Africa, where the largest percentage of French speakers reside and the importance of Canada (officially bilingual) as a major trading partner to the U.S., French is projected to become one of the most significant global languages.<br><br>Students with a French degree are well prepared to go on a variety of Masters and PhD programs for careers in education, business, communications, medicine, hospitality/recreation, government, law and social service. The following is a list of career paths that French majors across the country can pursue: Teacher, Community College/University Professor, Librarian, Research Assistant, College Admissions Officer, University Grant Writer, Business/Customer Service Manager, Bilingual Technical Support Specialist, Insurance Consultant, Analyst for International Financial Firm, Marketing/Sales/Representative for International Company, Assistant News Analyst, Technical Writer, News Anchor/Reporter, Film & Video/Book Editor, Translator/Interpreter, Editorial Assistant for Book Publisher, Intelligence Officer, Program Assistant for U.S Supreme Court, Public Health Data Analyst, International Trade Specialist, Peace Corps, Tour guide/Consultant, Guest Services Agent for large Hotel chain, Public Relations for French restaurant, Marketing Assistant for National Sports League.