Academic Focus
The Intensive French Language program at the University of Paris IV - Cours de Civilisation Française de la Sorbonne, offered only during the summer, is designed for students of all language levels who wish to focus solely on acquiring and improving their French language skills. You can choose from programs of various lengths, such as 4-weeks, 6-weeks and 8-weeks. You will take a French language course focused on oral expression, vocabulary development, phonetics and listening comprehension. The language course consists of two required components: language (cours pratiques) and phonetics. While these components are listed separately on the student's transcript, students must pass both the language and phonetics components to receive credit for the course. Regardless of the program length you choose, you are sure to improve your language skills by enrolling in this intensive program.
The French language course meets for a total of 50 hours (10 of which are phonetics) for the 4-week program and is generally worth 3 credits in the US semester system. During the 6-week program, the course meets for a total of 75 hours (15 of which are phonetics) and is generally worth 5 credits in the US semester system. The course during the 8-week program meets for a total of 100 hours (20 of which are phonetics), and is generally worth 6 to 7 credits in the US semester system. However, it is up to the discretion of your academic advisor how much credit will be awarded.
Note, if you are at the intermediate level or above, you can also reinforce your language studies by enrolling in an optional conversation class for an additional fee. There is also an accelerated version which is available for an additional fee to beginner students only.
Schedule Summary
The Cours practiques component meets 5 days a week, Monday thru Friday, for 2 hours a day. The phonetics component meets 5 days a week for 1 hour a day every other week. Classes may be held in the afternoon or morning and will not be final until students arrive onsite.
Course Registration
Once you arrive in Paris, you will take a placement exam which will determine the level of your French language class and electives available to you. After this exam, registration will take place. To aid in the registration process, it is in your best interest to have courses, including alternates, approved by your academic advisor prior to departure.
