Being bilingual is important and worthwhile: Did you know that…you are speaking or learning a language that is used by more than 200 million people; that French is an official language in 32 countries, and that 55 countries are members of l’organisation internationale de la francophonie? French is spoken with many accents and serves as a means of expression for a variety of cultures.

As a student of French at McMaster, you’ll be immersing yourself in one of the world’s great languages, spoken by millions in Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, North America, and elsewhere. You’ll also be introduced to the rich literary and cultural traditions of French-speaking peoples.

The language of instruction and communication in the Department is French, which will enable you to increase your fluency. Each year, McMaster welcomes graduates from France, who work as assistants, helping students to hone their language skills. You may also be able to spend your third year studying at a French-language university in Canada or abroad.

The Department of French has an overall theme of francophonie et diversité – the French-speaking world and diversity. This theme is reflected in the three areas of the study emphasized in French programs:

• Linguistics, Translation and Literary Theory.
• Francophone Literatures and Cultures of Quebec and the rest of Canada, of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
• Franco-European Literature and Cultures.

Careers for majors in French

Teaching at all levels

ESL Teacher

Journalism

Translation

NGOs

International aid/Development worker

Publishing

Human resources

Travel industry

Ambassador/Diplomat

Researcher

Editor

Voice-over artist

Signal’s Operator Linguist

Content creator

Marketing/Promotion coordinator