French

Why Study French at Iowa?

The French-speaking world is vast and culturally diverse. French is spoken in 51 countries around the globe, and by some estimates, a few decades from now it will be one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.

Our programs offer opportunities for exploring France's rich and storied past, for appreciating the Francophone world's literary, intellectual and cultural achievements, and for understanding how centuries of France's global reach have shaped important aspects and numerous regions of our contemporary world.

UI French department graduates have gone onto leading roles in international finance, publishing, international law, and cinema. Students can practice their French at conversation hour, grammar table, with the French peer tutor, and at movie nights!

A closeup of an open book of French text.

French Courses

Browse available language and culture courses available for students.

Cultural Activities and Events

Find celebrations, activities, exhibitions, and other events to connect with and enhance social development with members of the community.

A hat and a collection of French books in a bookcase.

Language and Culture Resources

As a means of communicating values, beliefs and customs, language has an important social function and fosters feelings of group identity and solidarity. It is the means by which culture and its traditions and shared values may be conveyed and preserved.

Study Abroad

The program encourages students to study abroad to develop their linguistic and intercultural competencies. The University has several opportunities to select from.