Program Requirements
Students follow a comprehensive program which combines intensive language, intercultural communication, and contemporary society, with related field trips. A placement exam is administered on-line prior to departure to determine incoming language level.


French Language
French classes take place three to five 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 intermediate to advanced levels. 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. All students sign an on-campus French language pledge, committing to total French immersion on the AUCP premises.


Intercultural Communication & Society
As a complement to language instruction, courses also emphasize intercultural skills, highlighting both verbal and nonverbal communication styles. Related focus on the French Art of Living explores the rituals and traditions, values and beliefs that structure French society. Accompanying students in their adaptation process, class instruction provides insights into lived experience and decrypting French cultural patterns. Four course-related field trips visit seaside and vineyards, farmland and local villages to allow students to witness first-hand the concepts developed in the classroom.


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 2011: $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 are not included.