About the Program

Why study French?

• French is a truly global language – it is spoken by over 340 million people around the world
• Over 8 million Canadians speak French as their first language
• French-speaking scientists and technicians invented the cinema, the hot air balloon, radial tires, smart cards, HDTV, the snowmobile, the saxophone, Velcro and more!
• France is the most visited country in the world with over 84 million tourists every year
• French is a working language of the United Nations, the European Union, and dozens of international organizations
• Travel the world and experience the diversity of French and francophone cultures!

French and Francophone Studies

The French program at Saint Mary’s University offers a multifaceted approach to language and cultures. It’s a unique opportunity to enhance your language skills and cultural awareness, and to discover Francophonie within and beyond Europe and North America.

At Saint Mary’s, we take students on a journey around the Francophone world through films, music and literatures, and through the cultures and experiences of French-speaking peoples. The French program offers a major, a minor, a concentration and certificates in French and Francophone Studies (click on “Undergraduate Requirements” and “Options” on the right).

You could be awarded one of our awards, and participate in the followings:

• Angers-Cidef Award (click on “Study Abroad Programs/French” on the right)
• Prix de l’Alliance française Halifax & Prix du Consulat français
• Bourse ACUFC – French as a Second Language
• French Prize (SMU)
• Explore Program (Canada)
• French Immersion Café

Study or Work Abroad

The French program offers exciting opportunities for study or work abroad.

SMU students can receive transfer credits toward a degree in French by taking part in our study abroad program in Angers (France). Click on “Study Abroad Programs/French”.

You may also become an English Assistant in France for a year and being paid! Click on “Work in France” on the right.

Exciting Opportunities in French

Click here to learn about exciting opportunities in French:

Exciting Opportunities in French

Contact Dr. Sophie Beaulé or Dr. Jean-Jacques Defert: Sophie.beaule@smu.ca; jean-jacques.defert@smu.ca