Study languages: make the world your place
Why study French?
French is a major international language. It is the first language of many people living in several European and African nations and Canada. It is an official language of Pacific territories within three hours flying time from New Zealand. With an understanding of French, you have an extra advantage in business, tourism or any organisation with an international marketing strategy.
You will be sought after in such areas as Foreign Affairs and Trade, Tourism and Treasury. You may be involved in furthering New Zealand’s interests overseas and there will be plenty of opportunities for travel. You may even find yourself interpreting at international conferences, translating books or subtitling films.
French at Otago
French is a Major of the Bachelor of Arts, a three-year degree programme. An honours degree in French requires an extra year of postgraduate study, the first semester of which is usually spent at a partner University in France or Canada. We also offer the Diploma in Language or the Diploma in Language and Culture for students who major in other subjects. Minors in French Language or French Culture are available too. Students who are interested in conducting further research on French language and culture can join our MA or PhD programme.
Detailed information about French papers.
Diploma in Global Cultures
The Diploma in Global Cultures (DipGlobalC) prepares students for the pressing need to develop knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for intercultural communicative competence and responsible, global citizenship.
The DipGlobalC is a separate qualification normally completed alongside a degree programme and replaces the Diploma in Language and Culture.
Go to details about programme requirements and regulations for the DipGlobalC.
Background required
If you have studied French at school or elsewhere, you will be able to build on your knowledge and skills, and the Department will determine which paper will best suit your level of French. Otherwise, an intensive and popular programme is available for the complete beginner.
Career opportunities
Recent Otago graduates who have included French in their degree now work as teachers, librarians, consultants, marketing managers and journalists all around the world. The analytical skills, communicative abilities and international perspectives that you’ll have gained by studying French at Otago will give you an edge, and a pathway into a wide range of occupations.
Student Exchange
In order to maximise students’ contacts with the language, culture and society, Otago University has established exchange relationships with a number of French universities. If your marks average B or better, you may qualify to attend one of these institutions for one or two semesters. You pay only your New Zealand fees, and complete your qualification within the same time-frame as if you had never been away.
