French
A global language of culture, science and diplomacy
Une langue mondiale de culture, de science et de diplomatie
French connects communities across Europe, Africa, North America and parts of Asia. With more than 220 million speakers worldwide and official status in 29 countries, French plays a central role in global diplomacy, research and cultural exchange. At the University at Buffalo, French studies explore language, literature and culture across the francophone world while helping students build strong communication skills and global perspectives.
All UB students may also use French courses to complete the UB Curriculum Global Pathway: Language and Culture Track.
French plays a major role in international diplomacy, global commerce and intellectual exchange. It is one of the working languages of the United Nations and a key language of the European Union.
French culture has shaped global traditions in literature, philosophy and science. Thinkers such as Blaise Pascal, Pierre de Fermat and Pierre-Simon Laplace helped shape modern mathematics and scientific thought, while writers, filmmakers and artists across the francophone world continue to influence global culture.
Studying French at UB helps you engage with these traditions while building language and cultural skills that support careers in education, research, international affairs and business.
Did you know?
Nearly one third of English vocabulary has French origins, reflecting centuries of cultural and linguistic exchange.
French studies at UB combine language learning with the exploration of literature, film, media and cultural history.
Students develop fluency in speaking, reading and writing French through small, interactive classes. Courses examine literary works, philosophical ideas and cultural movements across the francophone world, from medieval Europe to contemporary global cultures.
Students begin at their current level of proficiency and advance through coursework that strengthens both language ability and cultural understanding.
Explore our programs
Undergraduate
Graduate
French studies often explore topics such as:
- Medieval encounters between France and the Islamic world
- French literature from authors such as Flaubert and Proust
- Modern French philosophy and theory
- Film and media from Québec, Senegal and other francophone regions
- Cultural history and intellectual traditions of the francophone world
These perspectives help students understand how language connects cultures across continents and centuries.
Faculty in French language, literature and linguistics guide students through research, teaching and mentorship while exploring topics such as linguistics, cultural theory, literary history and francophone studies.
French and Francophone Linguistics Faculty
French and Francophone Literature and Culture Faculty
French connects people, ideas and cultures across continents. Studying the language and its cultures helps students understand global perspectives while building strong communication and analytical skills.
At UB, French studies combine language learning, cultural insight and academic exploration in a supportive and intellectually active environment.
Did you know?
Buffalo AKG Art Museum includes a major collection of modern French paintings by artists such as Gauguin, Renoir, Van Gogh, Rousseau and Delaunay.
French gives you the tools to engage with global cultures, ideas and careers. At UB, you will build language fluency, cultural knowledge and academic depth in a supportive and challenging program.