French
Why Study French?
Used by over 200 million people in 56 countries around the world, French is a language for international communication, culture, diplomacy, science, research and business.
French, like other foreign language study, improves test scores and reinforces English skills. Students who have studied French earn higher scores on standardized tests (SAT/ACT/GRE/LSAT) than those who studied other languages.
Candidates with proficiency in a language other than English earn higher salaries.
In a listing of international jobs distributed by the U.S. State Department on August 25, 2008: 78 required or preferred French, 27 a UN language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish), 17 Spanish, 10 Arabic, 5 Russian, 3 German, and 1 Chinese.
It is estimated that an English-speaker who has never studied French already knows approximately 15,000 words and expressions in the language; approximately 10,000 French words were incorporated into English throughout history.
French provides the base for more than 35% of modern English vocabulary.
French is the second foreign language taught in the U.S., behind Spanish.
French is the official language of 32 countries.
French is the only other language, besides English, to be spoken on 5 of the world’s continents.
French, along with English, is an official working language of the United Nations, UNESCO, NATO, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the International Labor Bureau, the International Olympic Committee, the 31-member Council of Europe, the European Community, the Universal Postal Union, the International Red Cross.
France is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council with veto power.
France has the 6th largest economy in the world.
France is a European leader in aerospace (Aérospatiale, Arianespace, Airbus).
Most commercial satellites are put into space on French Ariane rockets.
The fastest train in the world (the TGV) is French.
France has the world's third military power (after the U.S. and Russia), and has the world's second largest defense industry.
Fiber optics and the microchip were invented by French scientists.
The AIDS virus was discovered by a team of French researchers.
Canada is an officially bilingual country and the number one trading partner of the United States is Canada.
(from www.frenchteacher.com)
The Austin College French Program engages students in the study of the languages and cultures of the Francophone world. Throughout such regions as Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, an in-depth understanding of French language and its diverse cultures is necessary for careers in international relations and business, education, and service to the global community.
The French program offers many opportunities to immerse students in French language and culture. Students may live in the French language house with a native speaker and participate in activities such as dinners and cultural events. French table, conversation classes, and the French club also provide numerous outlets to practice French and learn about French culture. Austin College offers study abroad programs around the world, and in January term, students may take intensive and immersion classes in France and Morocco.
Graduates of the program have gone onto successful and exciting careers in international business, education, medicine, and hospitality/tourism. They have also been awarded opportunities to teach English in France, pursue advanced degrees at elite institutions, and serve refugee communities.
The opportunities to speak French and employ one’s expertise of Francophone culture are innumerable. Come discover what you can do with French at Austin College!
