Program Requirements
Students take two courses, one in intensive language instruction, and one in intercultural communication and contemporary society with related field trips. All courses are taught by local faculty or visiting professors. A placement exam is administered on-line prior to departure to determine incoming language level.


French Language
French classes take place three hours a day. Courses are designed to make ample use of the rich local setting for learning both inside and outside the classroom. French language courses are offered for all levels, from elementary to advanced. Small class size (7-14 students) allows for extensive personal interaction and attention. All levels benefit from an active approach to the development of conversation and listening skills, as well as written comprehension, accurate usage and current idiomatic expression. Thematic, contextual course modules target pragmatic language needs and desired domains of fluency.


Intercultural Communication & Society
Complementary to language learning, the mandatory intercultural communications course focuses on the French Art of Living and so explores the rituals and traditions, values and beliefs that structure French society. Taught in English, the course also serves to accompany students in their adaptation process, providing insights into lived experience and decrypting French cultural patterns.


Field Trips
Expanding the classroom, local excursions and four course-related field trips include:

The Vineyards
Geography and history of France through an exploration of wine-making.

The Mediterranean
Marseille and its vibrant port, an example of ethnic and religious pluralism.

Farmland of Provence
Ancient cheese-making traditions and the taste of fresh goat cheese on the farm!

Hilltop Villages
Architecture and traditions of Provence.


Program Costs
Summer 2010: $6,520

Costs include: tuition, housing in carefully selected French families on a demi-pension basis (seven breakfasts and five dinners a week plus Sunday lunches), comprehensive health & personal liability insurance, book fees, and four full-day field trips. Airfare and local daily transport is not included.