The minor program in "French studies" aims to give students both a theoretical and practical introduction to the linguistic, literary and cultural foundations of the French language. Given that French is taken to be the students' mother tongue, teaching will focus on reflexive linguistics as well as helping students develop skills in analyzing and understanding the history of the literature of the French language, although practical training which requires a good written style will also be taken into account. 

Once the course is completed, the students should be able to (a) demonstrate a receptive and practical command of written argument, (b)be able to critically analyze the linguistics of contemporary French, (c) take a methodical approach to literary analysis, which is backed up by a sound knowledge of the history of French literature and literary criticism.

Students of modern languages and literature (general option) who have taken this minor should, provided they meet some additional entry requirements, be able to continue studying French language and culture as part of their Masters electives. Furthermore, they can follow a specialized orientation in French as a foreign language which will make it possible for them to teach this subject.