French and Francophone Studies Minor
A minor in French and Francophone studies requires a minimum of six courses. At least one of the six courses must focus on literature or culture beyond the 235 level, or its equivalent. Advanced Placement courses, IB, and A-Level exams may not be applied toward the minor. All students who minor in French and Francophone studies must assemble a portfolio of their work in the minor. The portfolio consists of samples of written coursework and is designed to demonstrate progress in the study of the French language as well as the acquisition of analytical skills to interpret cultural production and socio-historical practices.
During their senior year, all minors participate in a regularly scheduled portfolio workshop series in which they discuss skills developed in French and Francophone cultural studies, focusing on critical thinking, communication, and equity and inclusion, and work toward the completion of their personal statement required in their portfolio.
Minors are requested to work closely with their official advisor on the compilation of the portfolio, which is due at the beginning of the Short Term of their final semester. There is no oral defense or presentation of the portfolio, as is the case with majors.
Courses Taken Outside of Bates
Advanced Placement courses, IB, and A-Level exams may not count toward the minor. Students minoring in French and Francophone studies are strongly encouraged to study abroad in a country appropriate for their area of interest. Normally, minors receive a maximum of one credit for one semester of study and two credits for two semesters. Students must obtain approval from the department chair in order for their course to count toward the minor in the discipline; otherwise, credit is not guaranteed. Students normally may transfer up to one credit for course work equivalent to courses offered by the Department of French and Francophone Studies. Students need to obtain approval from a faculty member in the department in order for their courses to count toward the minor; otherwise, credit is not guaranteed.
Pass/Fail
No courses beyond FRE 208 Introduction to the Francophone World may be taken Pass/Fail for credit toward the minor.
Declaration Restrictions
Students who have declared the French and Francophone Studies minor may not declare the following:
- French and Francophone Studies major
Other Considerations
None.