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French & Francophone Studies

B.A., Minor

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Why study French?

The ability to speak and write in French is one of the most immediately applicable skills taught at the university level. It opens the door to the cultures of dozens of countries around the world – and to international jobs in business, government, STEM, and the arts in which the ability to communicate with people from different linguistic backgrounds is a prerequisite for employment.

A French major can stand alone as a qualification for positions that require excellent communication skills or interaction with French-speaking people, as well as graduate studies in French, Law, Business, and many other disciplines. It can also enhance another major with international experiences and qualifications to give you an edge in any field. By teaching about the global impact of French civilization and resistance to colonialism, our program prepares students to navigate a world in which cooperation across cultures is as difficult as it is imperative.

French Major

Students earning their French degree at Hollins gain a strong foundation in all aspects of French language and culture. A French major can complete her degree requirements by taking courses in language and literature. Or, she can focus on business, international relations, and current events. Another track of study leads to certification to teach French at the secondary school level.

French Minor

The French minor only requires six courses of intermediate and advanced work. French minors also still have the option of living in the French House.

French Catalog, 2025-26 (PDF)
Meet our French Program Faculty people-listing-arrow
Jeanne Jégousso

Assistant Professor and Director of French; Co-Director of Undergraduate Research; Hollins Fulbright Program Adviser

French , Modern Languages

Turner | 540-362-6267
Matthew Trumbo-Tual

Visiting Assistant Professor of French

French , Modern Languages

Turner Hall | 540-362-6310
Marianne Richard

Foreign Language Teaching Assistant – French

French , Modern Languages

Turner Hall | 540-362-6626

What Can I Do with a French Major?

  • Arts and communication
  • Business
  • Education/higher education
  • Law and government
  • Social service

Our Hollins In Paris Program

Through customized programming with the Institute for International Education (IES), Hollins students are able to enroll in either a French Studies or Business and International Affairs programs for a full semester.

Explore the Hollins in Paris Study Abroad Program

Pi Delta Phi

Hollins is home to a chapter of the national French Honor Society.

The Francophone House - Hill Houses

The Francophone House

Speak French daily and share common interests in a residential house specifically for students interested in and majoring in French.

"The professors within the French department make learning interesting, fun, and interactive. I have learned a great deal about Francophone culture and it’s all because of the French department. I can only say the best about the French department because they are the best. With their guidance I was able to study abroad in France for J-term! Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I could have ever made."

Ambrielle Viney '23

Business major with a minor in French

Ambrielle Viney

"My world has been changed in more ways than I can count since I’ve come to Hollins. At Hollins you are challenged every day to expand your worldview and to learn new things, and that’s exactly what this French program has done for me – both in Paris and here on campus. Merci, merci, merci!"

Liza Davis

Class of 19, French and communication studies major

Elizabeth Davis '19

"Through literature, film, and yes, even pop music classes, the professors at Hollins taught me to thoughtfully consider and accurately articulate my views on the political, social, and cultural landscape of the francophone world. Professionally, my language skills and cultural awareness have come to my aid when interacting with French-speaking visitors, whether it be a tourist at our information desk or the French ambassador on an official visit."

Gwen Fernandez

French major, who has worked for the U.S. Supreme Court and the National Gallery of Art

"Not only am I able to read through documents and exchange with other scholars abroad but, more importantly, I have developed and maintained meaningful friendships across time and space. My courses and learning experiences at Hollins and in Paris established an important framework and base from which I could then explore these career aspirations and personal interests."

Erin Pettigrew

Assistant Professor of History and Arab Crossroads Studies, New York University – Abu Dhabi

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