The objective of a major in French, Spanish or Romance Literatures is to develop advanced language skills and to provide a broad and deep understanding of diverse literary and cultural traditions of French- and Spanish-speaking countries. In upper-division classes, the aim is to develop analytical and writing skills along with oral proficiency through intensive critical study of literary texts, Francophone and Hispanic literature, cinema, culture and history.

To foster an awareness of a culture different from one’s own, departmental courses are often interdisciplinary in approach, introducing art and music, historical background, social, philosophical and political issues, and other cultural concerns. Many are cross-listed with the programs in Gender and Women’s Studies, Chicano Studies, Latin American Studies and Media Studies. Many courses make extensive use of multimedia. The department also works closely with the Study Abroad Program.

Majors in French, Spanish and Romance Literatures have served in the Peace Corps., accepted prestigious fellowships (Watson, Fulbright, etc.) and gone on to a wide variety of careers in medicine, law, business, government, allied health care, university and secondary school education and more. The ability to speak a foreign language and the knowledge of another culture are highly prized by employers and lead to a significant degree of satisfaction in the workplace and in one’s personal life.