FAQ | Major in French as a Second Language

The program is for non-Francophones who are passionate about the French language and want to enhance their French language skills.

The program lets you develop strong skills in French and communicate with greater ease and confidence with Francophones. Program courses are known for their small groups where students form close connections with classmates and professors.

• Learning French in real-life situations
• Diverse courses that develop various skills needed for effective communication
• Small groups (a maximum of 30 students) that encourage participation, exchange and interaction

Two years (42 units)

Areinna, major in French as a second language and communications graduate

“What I have learned from being in the FLS program is that French is a very diverse language. It is a language that has many variations, and being able to live and study in a bilingual environment has allowed me to really immerse myself in the French culture, in speaking with Francophones here in Ottawa. I’m very thankful for that experience. Also, for having professors who understand my path and my experience learning French and are able to help me with my pronunciation, such as Martine Rhéaume, as well as Marie-Josée Hamel, who really helped me visualize where I can see French in my future.

“A really fun experience I had in the FLS program was with Professor Marie-Claude Dansereau. We went to a play to immerse ourselves in the Francophone community and be exposed to a different variation of the French language. It really helped us to learn the language and be able to understand the variations that we hear every day here while living in Ottawa.

“In FLS classrooms, you are able to build meaningful connections where it feels more like a community than ever. You’re also able to learn about the challenges with learning French as well as being with others who are in the same boat as you.”

Cynthia, FLS microprogram student

I liked the FLS courses because they helped me feel more confident when I speak French and because French is very important in Canada... Two professors have had an influence on my direction. First, Prof. Parvin Movassat, who was able to make grammar fun, crazy as it sounds! She always took time to help students and explain concepts so well that I really understood everything! Then there’s Prof. Martine Rhéaume, who helped me to learn the subjunctive. I use it often now. 

Yes, it’s designed to reinforce learning outcomes throughout the program. The emphasis is on language use in practical, day-to-day life situations, allowing you to gain the confidence you need to use your second language in public.

Program graduates can work in these sectors: 

• Second language teaching 
• Translation and interpretation
• Communication and public relations 
• Public service
• International affairs

The vast majority of courses are offered in person, to encourage discussion and interaction. Currently, we offer just a few courses online and some in online/in-person format.

Feel free to email Parvin Movassat, director, OLBI undergraduate studies, at [email protected].