French Education
French Education involves learning about French language and culture, while simultaneously developing knowledge and skills related to teaching. Your classes will be a blend of content courses related to the language, as well as teaching courses.
For individuals who
Want to learn or improve reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in French. Learn more about French culture and literature.
Looking for
A flexible degree that can result in multiple outcomes. Elective coursework. Study abroad experience.
To become
- Foreign Service
- Hotel and Resort Management
- International Business
- Translator
- Travel Agent
- French Teacher
The Program
Candidates in the French education major are prepared to teach French to students in grades 5-12 with creativity and confidence. Teacher candidates get the best of both worlds: content courses with faculty in the Department of Modern Languages and professional education courses from faculty in the School of Education (SOE). In addition to required courses, French teacher candidates need to study abroad where the target language is spoken.
Professional Education Courses
Teacher candidates may enroll in the 300-level professional education courses before being formally admitted to the School of Education (SOE). Prior to enrolling in the 400-level courses, teacher candidates must complete the application for admission to the SOE; attain a minimum of a 2.75 grade point average overall in their course work and education courses; and pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators or meet minimum scores on the ACT+. A minimum grade of "B" is required in the FREN teaching specialty courses. Requirements for admission can be found on the School of Education website.
Student Teaching
Student teaching (clinical practice) is the culmination of the teaching program. During the clinical practice, teacher candidates have the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills acquired in their college courses to real-world classrooms under the supervision of experienced French teachers in middle or secondary schools. Faculty members from NDSU conduct regular on-site visits to support, encourage, and evaluate teacher candidates so that they gain the confidence and ability to join the teaching profession after graduation.
Student Advisement
Teacher candidates will be assigned individual advisors who will work closely in program planning and in other ways to advise and assist them. Students are encouraged to seek advising from both Modern Languages and the School of Education whenever needed.
Licensure
Upon completing this program, teacher candidates are eligible for teacher licensure to teach French in most states. Our program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB).
Career Opportunities
The demand for language teachers continues to be great. In general, "employment of high school teachers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Rising student enrollment should increase demand for high school teachers, but employment growth will vary by region" (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm)