French is a global language spoken across Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and North America. At Gettysburg, students study French in ways that connect language learning to the cultural, historical, and political contexts of the French-speaking world. Through sustained engagement with texts, films, and other cultural materials, students develop both linguistic proficiency and the analytical skills central to the liberal arts.
Courses in the French program span language study as well as literature, cinema, history, and cultural studies. Students strengthen their abilities in speaking, listening, reading, and writing while also examining how language shapes social identity, cultural expression, and political life. Small class sizes allow for close interaction with faculty and meaningful discussion, helping students build confidence and precision in their use of French.
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If you’re looking for a place where your professors know you, your curiosity matters, and your studies connect directly to the world beyond campus, Gettysburg is the place. And if you choose French, you’re not just studying a language of literature and history — you’re preparing yourself with one of the fastest-growing, most globally relevant languages of the future.
Beyond the Classroom
French at Gettysburg also includes a range of co-curricular opportunities. Students can participate in French Table for informal conversation, attend film screenings, and take part in events that highlight the diversity of Francophone cultures. These activities support language learning while fostering a sense of community among students.
Many students choose to study abroad in France or another Francophone context, where they deepen their language skills through immersion and cultural experience. Study abroad strengthens linguistic fluency and provides valuable opportunities for independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural engagement.
Why French still matters
French remains one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and its global presence continues to expand. In recent years, Forbes and other sources have highlighted the projected growth of French worldwide over the coming decades, particularly in parts of Africa. For students, this means that French is not only a language of literature and culture, but also a practical asset in a wide range of professional contexts.
Preparation for careers and graduate study
A major or minor in French complements many fields and prepares students for careers in education, international affairs, public service, business, nonprofit work, law, journalism, and global health, among others. Many students also pursue graduate study in French and Francophone studies, international relations, history, political science, or related disciplines.
In an increasingly interconnected world, advanced language skills and cultural literacy are valuable assets. French at Gettysburg provides students with the tools to communicate across cultures, analyze complex global issues, and apply their learning in meaningful professional and personal contexts.