French is one of the world's major international languages: it is spoken by over 200 million people in 43 countries, on five continents. Knowledge of French may increase access to careers in international relations, development studies, business, science and the arts. The overall objective of the French Studies program is to teach students to process information from a wide variety of materials in French, both written and spoken, and to produce accounts and discussions of that information in a variety of forms. In subjects at all levels, you will be guided towards undertaking independent research projects into areas including language, literature, politics, cinema, theatre, travel writing, food and wine, immigration and identity. Develop an ability to communicate in the French language that will enhance your understanding of the French-speaking world. Study a variety of aspects of French-speaking cultures including literature, film, theatre, translation, travel writing, food and wine, immigration and identity. Your course structure The Bachelor of Arts requires the successful completion of 24 subjects (300-points), including at least one major. Most students study eight subjects each year (usually four subjects in each semester) for three years full-time, or the part-time equivalent. Most Arts majors require 100 points of study (usually eight subjects) for attainment. This means out of your 300-point program, you have the opportunity to achieve two majors in your course. COMPLETING YOUR MAJOR Students completing a major or minor in French Studies will need to complete a certain distribution of compulsory and elective subjects based on their entry point. The core subjects in French are organised in a progressive sequence from French 1 through to French 7. Entry and exit points are determined by the French Studies program based on the student’s background in the language, placement testing or prerequisites. Students normally progress through the subjects in consecutive order For more information on required subjects, view the Handbook entry for this course. BREADTH STUDIES Breadth is a unique feature of the Melbourne Model. It gives you the chance to explore subjects outside of arts, developing new perspectives and learning to collaborate with others who have different strengths and interests — just as you will in your future career. Some of our students use breadth to explore creative interests or topics they have always been curious about. Others used breadth to improve their career prospects by complementing their major with a language, communication skills or business expertise. The core subjects in French are organised in a progressive sequence from French 1 through to French 7. Entry and exit points are determined by the French Studies program based on the student’s background in the language, placement testing or prerequisites. Students normally progress through the subjects in consecutive order. Mid-year entry is also possible into subjects with even numbers, subject to appropriate prior experience and approval from the head of the French program. Accelerated progression is possible on advice from the French Program.