Texas Tech University
river in Paris France with the Eiffel Tower in the background

CMLL LanguageFrench

Why French?

The French Program at Texas Tech University provides students with the language skills, cultural knowledge, and global perspective needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. As part of the Department of Classical and Modern Languages and Literatures, the program offers a dynamic curriculum that explores the languages, cultures, histories, and literatures of the French-speaking world.

Students develop proficiency in French through courses in conversation, composition, grammar, culture, literature, and specialized areas such as Commercial French. Beyond the classroom, study abroad opportunities allow students to immerse themselves in French-speaking communities and gain firsthand international experience.

French is spoken by more than 200 million people worldwide and serves as an official language of major international organizations, including the United Nations, the International Olympic Committee, and the International Court of Justice. By studying French at Texas Tech, students prepare for careers in education, business, industry, government, international affairs, translation, and other globally focused professions.

Programs Within French

Languages and Cultures, B.A.: French Concentration

The French program collaborates with the College of Education for teacher certification in French. In addition to 33 hours of French coursework, students seeking secondary certification in French must complete LING 4311, preferably before their student teaching begins. Students seeking bilingual education endorsement, ESL endorsement, or secondary or elementary certification in French, should consult with advisors in both the College of Education and in the Department of Classical and Modern Languages and Literatures.

Explore Program

French Minor

A French minor consists of a minimum of 20 hours (25 hours if a student begins at FRENCH 1502 or 1507). It includes 15 hours at the 2000 level and above, and requires at least 3 hours at the 4000 level. At least 3 upper level hours must be taken through Texas Tech University.

Explore Program

Romance Languages, M.A.: French Concentration

The Romance Languages - French MA program is part of the Department of Classical and Modern Languages and Literatures, offering advanced two-year training in French and Francophone Language, Literature, and Culture, as well as in linguistics and language teaching. Most MA students are funded through a teaching assistantship, which allows for a substantial tuition reduction and a monthly stipend. Graduate students have the possibility to apply for a summer assistantship at the study-abroad program in Reims, France. Students who have completed the MA program have been admitted to top Ph.D. programs across the United States. Others have gone on to teach in high school, work in government administration, or succeed in international companies.

Explore Program

academic tracks

  1. Language – Develop advanced language proficiency while gaining knowledge of translation, literature, and culture. This track prepares students for careers in international business, translation, and graduate study.
  2. Literature, Film, and Culture – Explore French and Francophone literature, cinema, and cultural traditions while building critical thinking and intercultural communication skills.

Teaching Assistantship Program in France

 After completion of a major or minor, students may teach English as assistants for seven months in French public schools, teaching English to students of all ages. Each year, over 1,100 positions are available across all regions of metropolitan France and in the overseas departments of French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Reunion. The program is administered through the French Ministry of Education. 

Additional Information

For more information on the Languages & Cultures - French B.A., contact:

French Program Director
Dr. Carole Edwards

Graduate Studies Director
Dr. Bruno Penteado

Academic Advisor
Carla Burrus

CMLL Associate Chair - Graduate Affairs
Lucas Wood