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Study Abroad in Montpellier, France —
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Program Details
Study in this vibrant city with a centuries-old history of intellectual advances and social tolerance. Enjoy the college-town atmosphere, nightlife, and student-centered community. Choose beginning through advanced French language courses as well as courses in humanities, engineering, sciences, and business.
Location Montpellier, France Term Academic Year, Fall Semester, Spring Semester, Summer Session Housing Apartment, Homestay Credit Type Resident Credit Sponsor Learning Abroad Center Program Eligibility
GPA 2.5 Student Type UofM Students, Non UofM Students Student Year Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors Language 2 semesters of prior French for semester/year. No language prerequisite for summer. For additional program options in Montpellier, see Sports & Culture in France, Business in France, Engineering in France, Teaching Practicum in France and Youth Development & Psychology.
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Study Abroad in Montpellier, France
Student Experience
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About Study Abroad in Montpellier, France
Live and study in Montpellier, one of France’s fastest growing cities and an emerging cultural and educational center. Within easy reach of both mountains and the Mediterranean, and home to 100,000 university students, Montpellier is a young, vibrant city with a centuries-old history of intellectual advances and social tolerance. It is the ideal place to experience French language and culture.
Based at University Paul Valéry and at the University of Montpellier, this program provides access to humanities, engineering, sciences, and business courses through an extremely flexible course structure. Choose from a mix of special courses for study aboad students and regular courses with French students.
Housing & Meals
Homestay (Semester, Summer)
Homestays provide a vital connection to the local culture and social life, as well as the opportunity to experience French daily life. Host families provide breakfast and dinner during the week and all meals on the weekend. They are usually located in the suburbs, within 45 minutes from the city center and from campus via public transit.
Traditional French Apartment (Semester)
Live with other program participants in apartments, usually located in town and approximately 20–30 minutes from the university and downtown Montpellier. You will share the apartment with 1–2 other students from the program, occasionally with two people of the same gender sharing a room. The program fee for this option does not include meals, utilities, or the $500 security deposit. See the Fees page for additional costs. If you have special dietary needs or intend to have an active social life with frequent evenings out, this is a good option.
Student Studio Apartment (Semester, Summer)
Small studio apartments within a student apartment building offer basic rooms with a small private bathroom and basic kitchenette. The rooms are furnished with a single bed and a desk. You will be placed in downtown Montpellier about 30 minutes from the university. This housing option does not include meals, but does include utilities. A $500 security deposit will be billed with your program fee. If you are independent, this housing option may be a good fit.
Excursions
Multiple day-long excursions are included each term to introduce you to the unique character of southern France. In addition, the program’s social and administrative assistants organize activities to familiarize you with the city and provide you with opportunities to meet French students.
Typical Fall Semester Excursions: Aigues-Mortes and the Mediterranean Sea, Les Baux-de-Provence, Carcassonne, Arles and Saint Remy de Provence, Avignon and Fontaine de Vaucluse, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert
Optional longer excursions at an extra cost are also organized by the program during the semester and are offered if there is sufficient interest. These include excursions to Paris, Normandy, the Loire Valley, and Morocco.
Typical Spring Semester Excursions: Nimes and Pont-du-Gard, Couvertoirade or Budhist Temple and Roquefort Caves, Marseille, St Guilhem-le-Désert, Anduze
Optional longer excursions at an extra cost are also organized by the program during the semester and are offered if there is sufficient interest. These include excursions to Paris, Normandy, the Loire Valley, and Morocco.
Typical Summer Excursions: Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Avignon or Pont du Gard (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Flight
The Learning Abroad Center works with Village Travel, a local travel agency, to arrange a coordinated flight for program participants. The flight is optional, and is arranged for those who want to fly with other program participants. Group flight information is typically available by the program application deadline, if not before.Learning Outcomes
- Strengthen French linguistic skills
- Deepen cross-cultural understanding through interaction with local students, host families, and community members
- Gain French, European, and international perspectives on academic disciplines
- Increase independence and self-reliance by learning to navigate French society
- Develop professional skills such as problem-solving and teamwork.
Faculty & Staff
Françoise Defrecheux-Chaton
Françoise has been the On-Site Director of the program in Montpellier since 1990. With her staff, she oversees student services, excursions, housing arrangements, and academic coursework. She is also a professor in Business English at the Université de Montpellier and is well-connected in the local university community in Montpellier.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Germanic Languages from the Université de Liège and a Master's from the University of Minnesota in French Literature. She has also taught at the University of Minnesota and Carleton College in Minnesota.
Corrine Dumas
Corinne has been the Assistant Director of the University of Minnesota Program in Montpellier since 2006. She currently teaches the course on Leadership and Experiential Learning for the program.
She received a MA in English from the University of Orléans in France and a MA in French and ESL from West Virginia University. Corinne studied for five years at the University of North Carolina where she was also a teaching assistant in the French department. She completed her course work and passed her PhD exams in Comparative Literature.
Cedric Carpanedo
Cedric is the logistic coordinator for the program in Montpellier and teaches the Conversational French class. He has been part of the team for ten years and has lived in Montpellier for 12. He spent two years as a teaching assistant for the French Department at Macalester College in Minnesota.
Originally from Avignon, he studied English and American civilization and literature at the Université d'Avignon et des pays de Vaucluse.
Paul Rogers
Paul is the Academic Adviser for the Montpellier programs. He has been teaching university courses for over twenty years, and currently teaches in his specialty for the University of Minnesota program and at the Université Paul-Valéry in the Lettres Modernes department.
Paul holds a PhD in medieval French literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is originally from southern Rhode Island.
Kim Mousseron
Kim is the Housing Coordinator for the Montpellier programs.
Kim received her BA from Mount Holyoke College and MA from Middlebury College. After teaching French for a year at Boston College, Kim permanently moved to France where she obtained her TEFL certification. Kim has lived in Montpellier for over 20 years. She was born and raised in western Massachusetts.
About the Learning Abroad Center
Learning Abroad Center programs are:
- Affordable: our programs are cost effective.
- Academically strong: many programs have strong University of Minnesota departmental support and offer pre-approved courses for many majors.
- Culturally rich: regardless of the program you choose, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Expertly managed: our staff in Minnesota and abroad are trained professionals and are always available to answer your questions from extensive pre-departure advising and online orientations to reentry programming. Your safety and well-being are paramount, and we work hard to ensure you have a rewarding and safe experience abroad.
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Program Structure
Program Type Host University Study, Study Abroad Center Program Level 1000–3000 level courses Courseload 15–18 credits per semester; 3–10 credits for summer
Coursework
Semester & Academic Year Programs
These program options focus on language, humanities, and liberal arts. Refer to dedicated Learning Abroad Center program web pages for business, education, science and engineering and psychology course options in Montpellier.
Language & Culture (2+ semesters of college-level French proficiency)
Integrated Studies (4+ semesters of college-level French proficiency)
Summer Programs
Summer Study in Montpellier program offers intensive French language study with other international students at the Institute for Foreign Students, located on the University Paul Valéry campus and/or other American students at the University of Minnesota Program Center. The program is designed for all levels of French study, from beginning through advanced.
Participants take one course per 4-week session and may choose from three options: Session 1 (June), Session 2 (July) or Sessions 1 and 2 (June and July). The number of credits earned depends on the courses selected; courses are 3–5 credits each. Language study courses are designed for students to make progress in their language development. Topics courses are taught in French and designed for advanced students to develop their knowledge and understanding of Francophone language and culture.
Courses are designed to help students develop strong language skills and deepen their cultural understanding. Courses are pre-approved for University of Minnesota credit, and the curriculum is a prescribed set of courses.
Academic Planning Form (UofM Students Only)
University of Minnesota French majors and minors meet with the French Department undergraduate adviser at a special session to discuss course equivalencies to list on the Academic Planning Form. Summer students and students on the Language & Culture option register for pre-approved University of Minnesota French language and/or civilization courses that apply toward major and minor requirements.
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- 4+ semesters of college-level French proficiency required (for 2−4 semesters of college-level French, see the Language & Culture track)
- fall semester, spring semester, academic year
- courses available in humanities, liberal arts, business, marketing, sciences, engineering
- special courses designed for US students and integrated courses with French students
- 15–18 semester credits
Required Courses
Integrated Studies students are required to take Grammar & Methodology, Writing in French or Phonetics and one University Paul Valéry course. Students who have completed Academic Writing and Phonetics in the US can substitute with the Advanced Conversation course. UofM students who have not completed FREN 3016 must take Academic Writing. Very advanced students can request permission to focus on integrated courses instead of the required grammar and writing or phonetics courses. Contact the Learning Abroad Center in advance.
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Grammar & Methodology (advanced)MONT 3301Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Analysis of the French language and linguistic structures. Must be combined with either Academic Writing or Phonetics for a total of 6 credits.
Syllabus for Grammar & Methodology—section 1 (PDF)
Syllabus for Grammar & Methodology—section 2 (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
UofM equivalent: FREN 3015 or 3016 (FREN 3010 for students who have previously completed 3016)
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University Paul Valéry courseMONT IntegratedFall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Integrated courses in a variety of fields of study. See compiled fall semester course catalog and spring semester catalog for listing of typical courses offered.
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
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Writing in French: Tools & Techniques (advanced)MONT 3505WFall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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This course will strengthen your ability to write well in French on a range of academic topics. An additional emphasis on vocabulary development will give you greater confidence to express yourself orally and in writing in an academic context.
Note: required for UofM students on the Integrated Studies program who have not yet completed French 3016.
Syllabus for Writing in French (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college French prior to program start
UofM equivalent: Fren 3016 or Fren 3010
Approved as Writing Intensive
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PhoneticsMONT 3014Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Study of French sounds and intonation and phonetic transcription.
Note: UofM students who have taken 3014 on campus cannot enroll in the Phonetics course in Montpellier.
UofM equivalent: FREN 3014
Elective Courses
Choose 2 courses, 3 credits each:
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Conversation (advanced)MONT 3309Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Conversation practice through discussions on current topics, films and articles with the class and with an assigned conversation topic. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants.
Syllabus for Advanced Conversation (PDF)
Prerequisites: 4 semesters of college-level French
UofM equivalent: FREN 3018 (do not repeat if already taken on campus)
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Advanced TranslationMONT IntegratedFall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Study and practice of advanced grammar topics and translation of literary and press texts from English to French. University Paul Valery integrated upper-division course often selected by advanced academic year program students.
Syllabus for Advanced Translation (PDF)
Prerequisite: Second semester Academic Year student only
UofM equivalent: FREN 3010 (Students can earn up to a total of 6 credits of electives for language work beyond 3016.)
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Art HistoryMONT 3308Spring Semester3 Credits
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Examine the works and approach of modern French art masters and major art movements including surrealism, pop art, minimalism and conceptual art from from the 19th to 21st centuries. The course includes visits to art museums in Montpellier, Nimes and Sete.
Syllabus for Art History (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
UofM equivalent: FREN 3650. Fulfills elective credit for major/minor. Approved for Arts & Humanities Core and Global Perspectives Theme.
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Civilization of the SouthMONT 3302Spring Semester3 Credits
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Discover Southern France's ancient history to Southern France's place in contemporary Europe.
Syllabus for Civilization of the South (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
UofM French Department equivalent: FREN 3650; Civ. course requirement or elective for major/minor. Approved for Global Perspectives Theme.
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Contemporary French CivilizationMONT 3312Fall & Spring Semester3 Credits
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Study of contemporary French society.
Syllabus for Contemporary French Civilization (PDF)
Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college-level French
Approved for Social Sciences OR Historical Perspectives Core and Global Perspectives Theme
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The State & Citizenship: A Socio-historical ApproachMONT 3000-levelFall Semester3 Credits
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Citizenship is an integral idea embedded in the concept of a democracy. Considered essential in verifying and legitimizing politically democratic regimes, it can also be argued that the notion of "citizenship" is, to some extent, a myth: an ideal which is implied in the idea of equal justice, human dignity, and human rights, and which should never be violated. This course will analyze the process of constructing the idea of citizenship in France (from 1789 to the present) and will examine critical historical junctures and their contemporary manifestations. The course will demonstrate how the construction of the "social state" (and thus the viability of social citizenship) is both a product of and a condition for a democratic political existence.
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
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France & Its Mediterranean Neighbors—A Relationship of ExchangeMONT 3022Spring Semester3 Credits
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Explore the many ways that France and its neighboring Mediterranean countries (Israel, Syria, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan and Libya) have engaged in cultural, economic, and political exchange over the centuries.
Syllabus for France & Its Mediterranean Neighbors (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
Approved for Social Sciences Core and Global Perspectives Theme.
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InternshipMONT 3303Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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This course accompanies the internship and reflects on work culture in France. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants. Hours at the internship site are typically 8-10 hours per week.
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college French
UofM equivalent: FREN 3650. Fulfills elective credit for major/minor.
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Masculine/Feminine: France Through the Lens of CinemaMONT 3313Fall Semester3 Credits
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This course examines the interpretation of gender roles in France as expressed through the medium of French cinema.
Syllabus for Masculine/Feminine: France Through the Lens of Cinema (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
Approved for Arts & Humanities Core and Global Perspectives Theme
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Medieval Literature: Arthurian Legends & the Middle AgesMONT 3024WSpring Semester3 Credits
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This course gives students a thorough understanding of the Arthurian tradition as it has been depicted in French in the medieval period and the present day. Students will also acquire critical thinking and analytical skills with respect to works of literature and television drama/cinema, and learn how these artistic creations function from a sociological/socio-cultural perspective. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants.
Syllabus for Medieval Literature: Arthurian Legends (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college French prior to program start
UofM equivalent: Approved for Literature Core and Global Perspectives Theme, Approved as Writing Intensive
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Medieval Literature: Love, Heresy, & Betrayal in the Middle AgesMONT 3021WFall Semester3 Credits
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This course examines the origins of French literature and its development during Western Europe’s first true Renaissance of the 12th and 13th centuries. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants.
Syllabus for Medieval French Literature (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college French prior to program start
UofM equivalent: Approved for Literature Core and Global Perspectives Theme, Approved as Writing Intensive
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Directed ResearchMONT 3993Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Under the supervision of a University Paul Valéry faculty member, a student engages in 100 hours of directed research on a topic designed by the student in consultation with the on-site faculty member. Research topics must be pre-approved prior to participation. Taught exclusively to LAC program participants.
Syllabus for Directed Studies/Research (PDF)
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
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Global Business & Industry: France at the CrossroadsMONT 3802Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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This course examines the development and current state of the European business environment from a French perspective. Topics will include the background/aftermath of the establishment of the European Union (EU) as well as institutional, political, legal and socio-cultural factors at work in the contemporary business and industry landscape. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants. Taught in English.
Syllabus for Global Business & Industry: France at the Crossroads (PDF)
UofM equivalent: Approved for Global Perspectives Theme
Integrated Courses
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University Paul Valéry coursesMONT IntegratedFall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Integrated courses at University Paul Valéry in a variety of fields of study. See compiled fall semester course catalog and spring catalog for listing of typical courses offered.
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
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University of Montpellier coursesMONT IntegratedFall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Students enrolled at University Paul Valéry can also enroll in a limited number of courses at the University of Montpellier in a variety of fields of study.
Prerequisite: 4 semesters of college-level French
Optional Online Course
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Global IdentityOLPD 3330Optional, online1 Credit
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Global Identity: Connecting Your International Experience with Your Future is an optional 1-credit online course that helps you process your overseas experience and apply what you've learned upon your return. The course assists you in reflecting on multiple layers of cross-cultural experience and marketing your study abroad experience for future goals. There is an additional cost for this course.
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Fields of Study Available
The list below provides details on the wide range of fields available at the University of Montpellier and at University Paul Valéry, both of which are available through this program.
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Accounting
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- Audit, Control
- General Accounting
- Private Accounting
- Regional & National Accounting
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Anthropology
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- Anthropology of Education
- Anthropology of Everyday
- Life Anthropology of Literature
- Ethnology: Intro. to Theories of Blood Relations
- Evolution of Politics and Society
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Arabic
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- Beginning Arabic
- Arabic Civilization
- Arabic Grammar
- Arabic for Non-majors
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Art History
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- Architecture
- Art Esthetics
- Egyptian Epigraph
- Figurative Art Greek and Roman Art and Archaeology
- History of Contemporary Art
- History of Medieval Art
- History of Modern Art
- Introduction to Classical Archaeology
- Prehistoric Art
- Religious Iconography of the Middle Ages
- Renaissance
- 17th Century
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Arts
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Cinema, theater, painting (focus is on theory)
- 18th Century Theater
- Directing a Show
- Exercises in Film Making
- Aesthetics of the Image
- History of Cinema
- Aesthetics of Film Noir
- History of World Cinema
- Media Studies: Politics in Television
- Contemporary Movement
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Biology
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- Biology departments (click on "Offre de Formation" links for each specialty area to see the "License" -undergraduate- options)
- Biochemistry
- Animal Physiobiology
- Animal Biology
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Biology-Ecology
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- Ecology/Biodiversity (click on "Offre de Formation" links for each specialty area to see the "License" -undergraduate- options)
- Operational Ecology
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Business
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- Business areas of specialty
- Business Law Trade & Marketing
- History of International Business
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Catalan
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Beginning Catalan
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Chinese
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- Beginning Chinese
- Intermediate Chinese
- Advanced Chinese
- Chinese Civilization
- Translation
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Communications
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Media, Culture, & Society
Speech Communication
Semiology
Language & Communication
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Comparative Literature
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Modern & Contemporary Poetry
Francophone Literature
Contemporary Novels
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Composition & Writing
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French Stylistics
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Computer Science
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Note: Computer science technology in France is significantly less advanced than in the US.
Computer Science areas of specialty with list of course offerings
Systems & Networks
Databases
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Economics
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Monetary Policies
European Institutions
International Business Management
International Business Strategies
Business Law
European Union
Management Theory
Economic Analysis
Marketing
Political Sciences
European Economics
Labor Laws
Principles of Macroeconomics
Privacy Rights
International Marketing
International Business Law
Law and International Relations
Comparative Political Systems of Europe
Marketing and Strategy of International Firms
International Economics
Corporate/Entrepreneurial Economics
Constitutional Law
Introduction to Management
European Union Social and Political Law
Economic Growth
Economic Development
Industrial Strategy
Organizational Management
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Education
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Philosophy of Education
Science of Education
Sociology of Education
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Electrical Engineering
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Course Listings
Electrostatic
Electrokinetics
Theory of Telecommunications
Electromagnetism
Industrial Technics
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Electronics
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Electronics areas of specialty and syllabi
Components
Electronic Functions
Theory & Processes of Signals
Power Electronics
Converters
Applied Mathematics and Physics
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Electrotechnics
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Electronics areas of specialty and syllabi
Analogical Circuits & Logical Systems
Signal Processing
Microwaves
Power, Transformers, Engines
Applied Mathematics and Physics
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Engineering
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Engineering at the Polytechnic Institute
Thermodynamics syllabi
Optics
Creating Industrial Goods
Design
Fluid Mechanics Syllabi
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English
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French-English Translation
Elizabethan Literature
The English Bible
20th Century US Civilization
The French Encounter with American Cultures
Ethnicity in the US
America in the 20s
Gothic Literature Poe, Hawthorne and Melville
The British Detective Novel (1930s)
British Novel (Pickpockets, Thieves & Prostitutes)
British Postmodernism: Literature of Memory
British Romanticism
History of Scotland
Faulkner
African Literature & Civilization
Poetry (British/US)
Short Stories
Contemporary Novel
American Fiction
Social Conflicts/Drama
18th Century UK Aesthetics
American Cinema: The Novel in Film
Chomsky and His Critics
Translation for Anglophones
Anthropology of Pop Culture
Encounters With the Other
Shakespeare
Accents and Dialects of English
Sexual Revolution in American Literature
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Environmental Studies
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Scanning & Remote Detection
Pollution: Identification, Characteristics, and Evolution
Ecotoxicology and Environment
Hydrosciences
Water Resources
Recycling
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French Literature
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Survey of French Literature
French Medieval Linguistics
Medieval French Literature
French Literature of the Renaissance
16th-Century French Literature
17th-Century French Literature and Theater
18th-Century French Literature and Theater
19th-Century French Literature and Theater
20th-Century French Literature and Theater
Francophone Literature: Slave Testimonials from the 18th-19th Centuries
French Caribbean Literature
Classical Mythology in Literature
Rhetoric in French Literature
Poetry in French Literature
Literature and the Visual Arts
Writing the Colonization of Africa
Négritude Poetic Writing
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French
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Textual analysis; phonetics; grammar (medieval, modern and contemporary); language and communication; French philology (see also Linguistics)
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Geography
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Geography of France
Physical Geography
Fundamental Concepts in Geography
Geography of Populations/Human Geography
Contemporary European Geography
Cartography
Paleo-environments
Policy and Public Policy/Urban Planning
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Geology
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General Geology
Geomorphology
Hydrology
Land Management
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German
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German Civilization, History and Geography
Beginning German
Intermediate German
Advanced German
Translation
Civilization
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Greek (ancient and modern)
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Beginning Greek
Intermediate Greek
Advanced Greek
Civilization
Translation
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Health Sciences
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Health Systems
Health Economics
Physicals
Hygiene and Public Health
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Hebrew
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Beginning Hebrew
Intermediate Hebrew
Hebrew for the Non-specialist
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History
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Ancient Roman History
Ancient Greek History
Medieval French History
Contemporary French History
Ancient History of the Languedoc-Roussillon Region
Medieval History of the Languedoc-Roussillon Region
Byzantium and the Arab World (6th-11th Centuries)
The Church in the Medieval Period
The Medieval World (4th-15th Centuries)
16th-Century European History
16th-Century French History
17th-Century European History
17th-Century French History
19th-Century European History
19th-Century French History
Hollande's Golden Century
Contemporary Religious History of France
Contemporary Religious History: The Holocaust
Comparing Political Systems
History of the City of Rome
Contemporary History: Nationalism, Minorities, and Statehood in the Balkans
A History of International Relations from World War I to World War II
A History of International Economic Relations
International Law
International Crises and the Balance of Power
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Italian
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Beginning Italian
Intermediate Italian
Translation
Italian Civilization, Arts and Cinema
Italian Literature from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance
18th and 19th-Century Italian Literature
20th and 21st-Century Italian Literature
Italian Historical Linguistics
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Law
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Focus on French Law
Community Law
Constitutional Law
Employment Law
Private and Public Law
Fiscal Law
Administration Law
Childhood Law
Introduction to Legal Vocabulary
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Linguistics
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Applied Linguistics
Geolinguistics/Historical Linguistics
French Linguistics
History of the French Language
Sociolinguistics
French Phonetics
Phonology
Speech Analysis/Speech Communication
Lexical Semantics and Lexicology
Discursive and Cognitive Semantics
Syntax
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Management
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Management (all fields): MOMA (level 3 and Master's 1) or ISEM
Human Resources Management
Output Management
Administrative Management
Financial Management
Accounting
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Marketing
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Marketing (general), advanced classes are available in MOMA (level 3 and Master's 1) or ISEM
International Marketing
Market Research
Product Analysis
Price Policies
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Mechanical Engineering
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Mechanics & Theory of Mechanisms course listings
Materials
Mechanics
Technology of Design & Manufacturing
Scientific Calculus in Mechanics
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Material Sciences
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Microbiology
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Molecular & Cellular Metabolism
Molecular Genetics
Genetics
Bacteriology
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Music (theory)
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Private lessons are also available for a fee. Music performance is not available.
20th Century Music
Composition & Harmony
Musical Formation and Harmony
Solfege
Solfege & Writing
History of Music
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Pharmacy
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1st year classes only
Pharmacology
Pharmakinetics
Pharmaceutic Industry & Market
Regulation and Development of Drugs
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Philosophy
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You must have excellent French skills and a solid background in Philosophy. History; aesthetics; epistemology; analysis; General Philosophy
History of Philosophy
Moral and Political Philosophy
Philosophy of Science
Epistemology and Forms of Rationality
Esthetics
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Physics
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Physics (link to additional course listings)
Nuclear Physics
Thermodynamics
Optics
Acoustics
Astrophysics
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Physiology
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Physiology & Psychophysiology
Nutrition
Cellular & Animal Physiology
Endocrinology
Physiology of Breeding
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Polish
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Beginning Polish
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Political Science
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Political Sociology
History of Political Ideas
Introduction to Public Politics
History of Contemporary Politics
Political Institutions
Geopolitics
International Relations Law
Comparative Political Systems of Europe
History of European Institutions
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Psychology
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History of Psychology
Psychological Tools
Experimental and Developmental Psychology
Clinical Psychology/Adult Psychopathological Nosography
Organizational Psychology
Psychometrics
Cognitive Psychology
Cognitive Disorders
Social Psychology
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Romanian
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Beginning Romanian
Intermediate Romanian
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Russian
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Beginning Russian
Intermediate Russian
Advanced Russian
Translation
Russian Civilization
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Sociology
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Fundamental Concepts in Sociology
Sociology & Society
Sociology of the Media and Communication
History of Sociology
Applied Sociology
Contemporary Sociology
Sociology of the Imagination
Sociology of Violence
Sociology of the Digital Age
Sociology of Cultural Change
Political Sociology
Sociology of Education
Urban Legends
Sociology of Art
Sociology of Exclusion
Sociology of Health
Sociology of Rituals and Representations of Power
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Spanish
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Latin American Literature & Civilization (Colonial Period)
Latin American Literature & Civilization (Contemporary)
Peninsular Literature & Civilization (Classical)
Peninsular Literature & Civilization (Contemporary)
Intermediate Spanish
Advanced Spanish
Translation
History of Cuba
Spanish Linguistics
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- 2 semesters of college-level French proficiency required (for 4+ semesters of college-level French, see the Integrated Studies track )
- fall semester, spring semester, academic year
- 15–16 semester credits
Required Courses
For UofM students, these 3 courses will combine to count for FREN 1003+1004 or 1004+3015.
3 credits each, for a total of 12 credits:
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Intermediate Grammar & MethodologyMONT 1301Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Available only to students on the Language and Culture program. Analysis of the French language and linguistic structures. Must be combined with either Academic Writing or Phonetics for a total of 6 credits.
Syllabus for Intermediate Grammar and Methodology (PDF)
Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college-level French
UofM equivalent: The required courses combine to count for FREN 1003+1004 or 1004+3015.
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Intermediate ConversationMONT 1309Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Available only to students on the Language and Culture program. Conversation practice through discussions on current topics, films and articles with the class and with an assigned conversation topic. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants.
Syllabus for Intermediate Conversation (PDF)
Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college-level French prior to program start
UofM equivalent: For UofM students, the required courses combine to count for FREN 1003+1004 or 1004+3015.
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Writing in French: Tools & Techniques (Intermediate)MONT 1302WFall & Spring SemestersCredits
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Available only to students on the Language and Culture program. This course will strengthen your ability to write well in French on a range of academic topics. An additional emphasis on vocabulary development will give you greater confidence to express yourself orally and in writing in an academic context.
Syllabus for Writing in French: Tools & Techniques (PDF)
Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college-level French
UofM equivalent: For UofM students, the required courses combine to count for FREN 1003+1004 or 1004+3015.
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PhoneticsMONT 3014Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Study of French sounds and intonation and phonetic transcription.
Note: UofM students who have taken 3014 on campus cannot enroll in the Phonetics course in Montpellier.
Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college-level French
UofM equivalent: FREN 3014
Elective Courses
Choose 1 course, 3 credits:
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Contemporary French CivilizationMONT 3312Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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Study of contemporary French society. 2.5 hours per week.
Syllabus for Contemporary French Civilization (PDF)
Prerequisite: 2 semesters of college-level French
Approved for Social Sciences OR Historical Perspectives Core and Global Perspectives Theme
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Global Business & Industry: France at the CrossroadsMONT 3802Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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This course examines the development and current state of the European business environment from a French perspective. Topics will include the background/aftermath of the establishment of the European Union (EU) as well as institutional, political, legal and socio-cultural factors at work in the contemporary business and industry landscape. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants. Taught in English.
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Community EngagementMONT 3886Fall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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This course accompanies the engagement opportunity and reflects on work culture in France. Placement options for students with limited French may include assisting with coaching after-school sports teams, working with charities, and assisting with English language classes in school settings. Taught at program center exclusively to LAC program participants. Taught in English.
Students with sufficient French language skills can enroll in the internship course in French (MONT 3303) instead and have a wider selection of possible placements.
Syllabus for Community Engagement (PDF) (taught in English)
Syllabus for Internship (PDF) (MONT 3303, taught in French)
UofM equivalent (if enrolled in MONT 3303 in French): FREN 3650. Fulfills elective credit for major/minor. Approved for Civic Life and Ethics Theme.
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University Paul Valéry coursesMONT 3XXXFall & Spring Semesters3 Credits
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English-taught courses offered at University Paul Valéry.
Optional Online Course
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Global IdentityOptional, online1 Credit
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Global Identity: Connecting Your International Experience with Your Future is an optional 1-credit online course that helps you process your overseas experience and apply what you've learned upon your return. The course assists you in reflecting on multiple layers of cross-cultural experience and marketing your study abroad experience for future goals. There is an additional cost for this course.
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Coursework
Please refer to this chart to view all courses offered during Summer Study and in which session(s) they are offered. Descriptions and syllabi are provided below.
Courses for Students with 0–3 Semesters of French
The following courses are offered to students who have no prior French language study or have completed 1–3 semesters of French:
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Beginning FrenchMONT 1001Summer5 Credits
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Introduces students to the four language skills: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. Topics include everyday issues (shopping, directions, family, housing). Equivalent to A1 level.
Syllabus for Beginning French (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 1001
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Advanced Beginning FrenchMONT 1002Summer5 Credits
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Continues to develop students’ competency in the four language skills: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. Topics include everyday issues (shopping, directions, family, housing, etc.). Equivalent to A1 level.
Syllabus for Advanced Beginning French (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 1002
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Intermediate FrenchMONT 1003Summer5 Credits
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Development of listening, writing, and speaking skills in the context of cultural themes related to the Francophone world. Grammar review and elaboration. Equivalent to A2 level.
Syllabus for Intermediate French (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 1003
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Advanced Intermediate FrenchMONT 1004Summer5 Credits
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Continued development of listening, writing, and speaking skills in the context of cultural themes related to the Francophone world. Grammar review and elaboration. Equivalent to A2 level.
Syllabus for Advanced Intermediate French (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 1004
Courses for Students with 4+ Semesters of French
The following courses are offered to students who have completed 4 or more semesters of French:
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French Composition & CommunicationMONT 3015Summer3 Credits
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Advanced study of French with particular emphasis on grammar review, vocabulary building, oral communication skills, and language usage in cultural contexts. Equivalent to B1–B2 levels.
Syllabus for French Composition & Communication (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 3015
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Advanced French Composition & CommunicationMONT 3016Summer3 Credits
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Advanced study of grammar in context: emphasis on writing for varied communicative purposes, reading for style and content, translation. Students must have completed the equivalent of Fren 3015 (5th semester). Equivalent to B1–B2 levels.
Syllabus for Advanced French Composition & Communication (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 3016
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French ExpressionMONT 3010Summer3 Credits
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Advanced study of grammar in context: emphasis on writing for varied communicative purposes, reading for style and content, translation. Students must have completed the equivalent of Fren 3015 (5th semester). Equivalent to B1–B2 levels.
Syllabus for French Expression (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 3016
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La France Mosaïque: Perspectives on Contemporary FranceMONT 3311Summer Session 1 only3 Credits
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Explore current perspectives on immigration in France. This course will be taught in French and will include visits and excursions around Montpellier and the surrounding region. You will visit various organizations dedicated to naturalization services, public housing, immigrants' rights, non-violence, anti-racism and anti-discrimination. You will also take part in service-learning with local organizations.
Syllabus for La France Mosaique (PDF)
UofM equivalent: FREN 3650; Civ. course requirement or elective for major/minor.
Approved for Social Sciences Core and Civic Life and Ethics Theme as well as Global Perspectives Theme.
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History of French CinemaMONT 3101Summer Session 2 only3 Credits
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In this course, you will examine the unique history and artistic form of French cinema and explore key themes of French society during the 20th Century through the lens of cinema.
Syllabus for History of French Cinema (PDF)
Approved for Arts, Humanities Core and Global Perspectives Theme.
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French for Science & TechnologyMONT 3110Summer Session 2 only3 Credits
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This course will focus on grammar and vocabulary relevant to the fields of science and technology. It will include visits to local industry.
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Dates & Deadlines
Submit the online application and complete the assigned application checklist according to the appropriate deadline:Program Term App Open Date Deadline* Summer 2019 (Session 1) Aug 1 Mar 1 Depart U.S. May 30 Arrive Montpellier May 31 Depart Montpellier Jun 29 Summer 2019 (Session 2) Aug 1 Mar 1 Depart U.S. Jun 26 Arrive Montpellier Jun 27 Depart Montpellier Jul 27 Summer 2019 (Session 1& 2) Aug 1 Mar 1 Depart U.S. May 30 Arrive Montpellier May 31 Depart Montpellier Jul 27 Fall 2019 Dec 1 Apr 1 Depart U.S. Sep 4 Arrive Montpellier Sep 5 Orientation & welcome week Sep 6 – 11 Free weekend Sep 12 – 15 Classes begin Sep 16 Break Oct 28 – Nov 3 End of classes Dec 14 Exams Dec 9 – 20 End of Fall Semester Dec 20 Depart Montpellier Dec 21 Academic Year 2019-2020 Dec 1 Apr 1 Depart U.S. Sep 4 Arrive Montpellier Sep 5 Orientation & welcome week Sep 6 – 11 Free weekend Sep 12 – 15 Classes begin Sep 16 Break Oct 28 – Nov 3 End of classes Dec 14 Exams Dec 9 – 20 End of Fall Semester Dec 20 Winter Break (tentative) Classes begin (tentative Break (tentative) Break (tentative) End of Spring Semester (tentative) Depart Montpellier (tentative) Spring 2020 May 1 Oct 1 Depart U.S. mid-January Arrive Montpellier mid-January Break 1 week in March Break 1 week in April End of Spring Semester 2nd week of May Depart for U.S. 2nd week of May *Program dates are subject to change. Contact the LAC for verification of dates before purchasing your airfare.
**If the deadline falls on a weekend, submit your materials on the following business day.Orientation Dates & Locations
Orientation will be conducted in 2 parts: an online orientation, which is mandatory for all students, and an in-person, program-specific session. You will receive more information about the online orientation via email. Failure to complete the online orientation will impact your ability to go abroad.See below for tentative dates and times for your in-person session. You will be notified of the official date and time via email. Participants will receive applicable orientation materials via email approximately 1 week prior to the in-person session.
Term Abroad Date/Time Location Summer 2019 Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Fall 2019 and Academic Year 2019-2020 Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 3:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. CSOM 1-147 *UMTC Declared and Prospective French Majors and Minors (semester, academic year, and advanced summer students only): Please contact the French department to set up a meeting with Trina Whittaker, Director of Undergraduate Studies in order to complete the Academic Planning Form. If you are considering declaring a major or minor, please do so prior to orientation.
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Fees for Study Abroad in Montpellier, France
University of Minnesota participants pay the program fee instead of on-campus tuition and fees for the term they are abroad.Summer 2019 Program Fees
Summer Session 1 or 2 (Student Studio Apartment)
Summer Session 1 or 2 (Homestay)
Summer Session 1 & 2 (Student Studio Apartment)
Summer Session 1 & 2 (Homestay)
Summer Session 1 & 2 (Student Studio Apartment & Homestay combination)
Fall 2019 Program Fees
Traditional French Apartment, Student Studio Apartment, Homestay
Academic Year 2019-2020 Program Fees
Traditional French Apartment, Student Studio Apartment, Homestay
Spring 2020 Program Fees
Traditional French Apartment, Student Studio Apartment, Homestay
Billing & Payments
Visit Billing for information about the billing process for application fees, deposits, and program fees.Financial Aid & Scholarships
Visit Financial Information for information on using financial aid and scholarships for study abroad.Bridging Loan
Bridging Loan, a no-interest/no-fees loan that funds the upfront deposit and flights costs, is available for this program for eligible student.Cancellation Policy
Before you apply to or confirm your participation on this program, review the Learning Abroad Center's Cancellation Policy to inform yourself of the timeline and financial obligations for canceling. -
Prepare
Complete pre-application advising.Be aware: All programs require a $50 application fee. This fee will be charged to your student account upon submission of an online application.
To complete the online application for this program, you will need to select or provide the following information on the online application:
Center Name TC Learning Abroad Ctr Education Abroad Term See Dates page for term options Program Name Study Abroad in Montpellier Track Name Study Abroad in Montpellier Country France Submit
University of Minnesota Student—apply
Use your University of Minnesota internet ID and password to log into the Education Abroad application system. Your student account will be charged a $50 application fee.
Non-University of Minnesota Student—apply
Once you submit your application, Learning Abroad Center staff will create a University of Minnesota student internet account for you. You will use this account to access the Education Abroad Application System, and other University of Minnesota services. You will be charged a $50 application fee for this program.
Our staff will contact you within 2–3 business days with your internet account information, and additional application instructions.
Complete
After you submit your application, you will receive an email notification confirming that your application was received. Submitted applications are assigned an application checklist, which will include the following items:
- Application Essay
- Academic Recommendation from a college French instructor (Semester/Year applicants only)
- Transcript (Non-UofM students only)
- Home Institution Nomination (Non-UofM students only)
Detailed descriptions and instructions for submitting each checklist item are included on the application checklist assigned to you.
If you do not meet the GPA requirement for this program, you will be required to submit two additional application items: the Low GPA Essay and Special Circumstances Recommendation. Both items will be added to your checklist after your start your application, and you will be notified when they have been added.
Next Steps
After your application checklist is complete, your application is reviewed by our program team. You will be notified of an acceptance decision by email. If accepted, you will be assigned a confirmation checklist, which you will complete to confirm your participation in the program. If you decide not to continue with the application process, log into the online application system and submit a Cancel Request. -
Student Visa in France
Semester and Academic Year students need a “long-stay” student visa in order to study in France. You must apply for and receive your French student visa before you depart from the US to France. The visa process has multiple steps, so plan on getting your passport in order as soon as you have been accepted to the program. After you have confirmed your spot in the program through the Learning Abroad Center online system, an additional French Visa Guide will be sent to you, which contains detailed instructions and a timeline to stay on track.
French Student Visa Process
The French Student Visa process has 4 steps:
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Obtain a passport or verify that your passport is valid for 6 months after your program end date.
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Register with Campus France online.
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Apply for your visa online.
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Book and attend an in-person appointment.
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Obtain a Passport
If you are applying for a passport for the first time, visit the US Department of State website for information on the steps you will need to take. It can take up to 10 weeks to receive a new passport during busy processing times, so apply as soon as possible. Consider expedited service if necessary.
If you already have a passport, make sure that it is valid for 6 months after your program end date and has at least 2 blank pages available.
Your student visa is a document that is the size of and applied to a page in your passport, so you must have your passport prior to applying for your visa. Do not plan to travel internationally during the 100 days prior to your program start date. At your in-person appointment, you will give your passport to a VFS Global official to be sent to the Embassy in Washington, D.C. for processing. You will pick up or request to receive your passport via mail approximately 3-8 weeks after your in-person appointment.
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Complete an online application with Campus France
The first step to applying for a visa is to create a new account and complete an online application with Campus France. Your application must be correct, complete and submitted in order for your dossier to be reviewed and approved. There is a $190 fee, which must be paid online at the time you complete your Campus France application. The last step for this part is to email several documents to Campus France, which will be detailed in the step-by-step French Visa Guide. It can take several weeks for Campus France to review and send you the approval via email.
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Apply for your French Student Visa and book your in-person appointment
In this step, you will complete your visa application on the France-Visas official web site, maintained by the French government. You will find details and screen shots in our step-by-step French Visa Guide. The last step in this part is to book your in-person appointment at a VFS Global location. VFS Global is a company with which the French government has contracted to assist in visa appointments and applications. VFS Global locations that assist with French visas are in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, New Orleans, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. All students may book their in-person appointments at the location closest or most convenient to them. Most UofM students book their appointments at the Chicago location. Non-UofM students may book their appointments at the location of their choice.
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Attend your in-person visa appointment
You must attend your visa appointment in-person, during which biometric data will be collected. Appointments can fill at least 1 month in advance. In general the appointment takes about 20 minutes, but it’s possible that there may be wait times at the VFS Global location when you arrive. Additional information on what to expect at your appointment is included in the France Visa Guide.
Non-US Citizens
Non-US citizens should check with the French Embassy or Consulate for entry regulations to France. A good starting point is France-Visas; complete the “Do you need a visa?” step.
Processing times for international passports can take up to 2 months. During the processing period, you cannot leave the US, because you will not have a valid passport in your possession. You can use USA Campus France and the VFS Global processing centers in the US as an international student or complete your processes abroad in your home country. Since the USA Campus France process is now electronic (nothing needs to be mailed in), Campus France may be able to transfer your completed USA Campus France application to your home country for further processing. Contact Campus France directly via their web site for details and guidance. Not all overseas Campus France offices will accept the completed USA Campus France file and may require you to complete the overseas Campus France process if you are applying for your visa in your home country.
Permission from US authorities to exit and reenter the US may also be required. Refer to the international student office on your campus for assistance. Refugees are typically not able to receive a student visa to study in France because their refugee paperwork will not be valid for the duration required by French authorities.
If you are a citizen of or hold dual citizenship in a European Union country, you may not need a student visa to study in France. Check with the French Embassy or Consulate for more information.
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Program Contact
For further information or questions about this program, send an email to
Maria Mantey or call at 612.626.7535. -
Contact Program Alum
Below is a list of additional students who participated in past program sessions. They are ready and willing to answer your questions about this program. Feel free to contact them during your decision-making process or anytime during your pre-departure preparation to get a student perspective.Amanda Huff: Spring 2018, Global Studies & French major, Homestay
Ben Schribman: Spring 2018, Political Science & French major, Homestay
I-UROP Scholarship
