Develop global perspectives sought by companies, educational institutions and NGOs in the US, France and other French-speaking countries (Canada, Haiti, Belgium, Congo, etc.), and explore our many study abroad opportunities. Students who enter UWM with advanced French can earn both a bachelor’s and master’s in 5 years to become a translator/interpreter. Fluency in French can provide a career advantage in all types of professions including business, medicine, law, the arts, politics, government work, and more. The country of France is a leader in science and high-tech, architecture, fashion, and cuisine, making French fluency valuable in these industries as well.

At UWM, language students receive an education in not just language fluency but also in the culture surrounding that language. Context matters in communication, and we believe it is important for students to understand the history, literature, and customs of native speakers of French in order to successfully apply their fluency.

Student with no previous experience in French will start in the introductory French language class; those who have studied French in high school should take the placement exam to determine if they can start at a higher level. Students who place in a higher-level course who subsequently complete that course with a "B" or better may receive retroactive credits for the courses that were skipped.

Requirements

The College of Letters & Science requires that students attain at least a 2.0 GPA on all credits in the minor attempted at UWM. In addition, students must attain a 2.0 GPA on all minor credits attempted, including any transfer work. At least 9 credits must be taken at the 300 level or above in residence at UWM.

The minor in French consists of a minimum of 18 credits as follows: