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Welcome to the Department of French Studies

For the most current information regarding the CUPE 3903 labour disruption, please visit York’s labour disruption website. Students will be able to find information about the status of their courses on the Course Status website and eClass.

We understand that you may have questions and concerns about how this evolving situation may impact you as a student. The University’s top priority is to continue supporting you and your learning. For information regarding campus access, resources and more, please consult our FAQsWell-being resources are also available for students seeking support.

Bienvenue sur le campus Keele !

Study an official language of Canada and an influential language spoken by millions of people around the globe. Our department offers a broad and varied curriculum not found in other French programs: you will gain a keen understanding of the Francophone world and identity, master your French, learn many power skills, and develop your cultural intelligence by exploring language, literature, and linguistics from interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary perspectives. Most importantly you will be prepared for various career avenues.

What makes us unique:

  • A global, cross-cultural and contemporary view on French and Francophone Studies; 
  • A comprehensive approach to French, including techniques of communication; through innovative methods of teaching;
  • Small classes, taught in French, to interact with peers and experienced instructors with a wide range of specializations and backgrounds; 
  • First-hand learning opportunities to practice your language and communication skills in non-academic settings; 
  • A vibrant Association des Étudiant-e-s Francophones et Francophiles de York to connect with peers who share similar interests and career goals. 

Our degree options include:

  • Undergraduate program (BA): major or minor (French Studies is perfectly suited to combine with other programs);
  • Certificate of French Proficiency (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced).

French certificates can be added to other York degrees, giving you a competitive edge within the job market, especially in the federal Canadian government.

Read our Land Acknowledgment, which recognizes the unique and enduring relationship of Indigenous people and their traditional territory.

Welcome to the Department of French Studies in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies! Thanks to its interdisciplinary approach to the study of French language DFS offers courses in French language, linguistics and literature. We are proud of the fact that our courses are taught in French by committed professors with vast academic expertise. At DFS we value experiential education. Whether you choose to study for a few weeks in Quebec, spend one semester at a partner university in France, intern with a local or global francophone organization or get involved in the Francophone student association, your journey with us will be meaningful and rewarding, and will lead to many exciting careers en français! Thank you for choosing to study with us!

— Marilyn Lambert-Drache
Chair & Associate Professor, French Studies