Undergraduate
Frequently Asked Questions
French Minor
What is a minor?
A minor is one of three ways to complete the Arts and Sciences requirement for a related area (a student
can also do this by completing 12 credits in a program other than his or her major field(s) of
study, or by completing a formal
certificate). It is a short program of study formally established by the granting department
and program, and is made up of a number of required courses and a required credit total.
Students must maintain a 2.0 minimum GPA in the required minor courses, and though they may pursue more than one minor, only one will appear on the student’s official transcript.
The French minor gives students the option of choosing between two fields of study, French Language and Literature, and French Studies, which are in turn broken down into further options, or tracks, to accommodate each student’s needs.
Do you have to declare a minor?
Students should declare their Arts and Sciences minor in the Arts and Sciences Advising Center in Thackeray Hall. In addition, French minors are asked to register with the department so that we can keep you abreast of changes in program requirements, departmental activities, and advising matters. If you are pursuing a French minor and have not yet registered with the French Program, you may do so by clicking here.
Who approves the minor?
There is no need to obtain formal approval while pursuing the French minor, as long as a student
follows the guidelines for required courses and credit totals. However, students should feel
free to contact the French major advisors with questions regarding any unusual
circumstances (i.e., transfer or Study Abroad credits that might not correspond to the stated requirements).
Can courses taken pass/fail be applied toward the minor?
Of the five (5) courses required for each minor track, no more than one (1) course may be taken
pass/fail.
Can you do more than one option?
No. Students are given a variety of options to help them tailor their French minor to other
needs, but a student may only obtain the French minor once.
Are exceptions ever made with respect to the course requirements?
Yes. Students with unique circumstances should contact the French major advisor
with questions regarding course substitutions or exemptions.