Department of French Studies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is French Hard?
No, it is not more difficult than any other subject, depending on your level of ability and commitment. As far as the language element is concerned, it requires you to work on a regular basis. If you are not too confident about your grammar skills, do not worry: in first year, we go back to the basics!
Should I do French?
Yes, if you like it and are interested in it. Studying French has many advantages (see What are the long-term advantages of studying French? below).
What grade do I need in my Leaving Cert. to do French in Mary Immaculate College?
We recommend at least a C3 on an Honours Leaving Cert. paper; however, students with grades below C3 have taken French in the past and have done exceptionally well because they liked the subject and were prepared to work.
Can I take French in the B.Ed. programme?
Yes, French is one of the main elective subjects on the B.A. and B.Ed. programmes. See What are the long-term advantages of studying French? below to find out what the specific advantages are for B.Ed. students.
When do I sit my exams?
Normally before the Christmas break and in May. There are a few in-term class tests as well.
How are the Terms organised?
We have 2 equal terms (semesters) comprising 14 weeks each – 12 weeks of teaching, followed by 1 study week and 1 week of examinations.
What does the French programme consist of?
The French course deals with French language, literature, civilisation, society and culture.
Is the language work hard?
No, as long as you work regularly and do what is required, because the language programme deals with the basic elements of French grammar.
Is any additional help given with grammar?
Yes, we have tutorials (small group sessions) which deal with translation and grammar – these classes expand on the points covered in the weekly grammar lecture.
Do we have any conversation class?
Yes, first-year conversation tutorials take place in semester 2.
What is on the literature course?
In Semester 2 of Year One, we introduce students to French Short Stories (4 to 6 page-long texts maximum).
What are the long-term advantages of studying French?
If you are a B.Ed. student, the teaching of French at primary level has significantly increased in recent years, particularly since the introduction of the ongoing pilot scheme in many schools (MLPSI - Modern Languages in Primary Schools Initiative, click here to find out more). It is also part of the normal curriculum in many Gaelscoileanna, and is taught outside normal hours in many schools. Our current B.Ed. students have become fully aware of how advantageous it is to have studied French during their degree when they apply for jobs as primary school teachers later on: in 2009-2010 we noted a 65% increase in the number of B.Ed. students choosing to keep French as one of their subjects in second year.
If you are a B.A. student, career opportunities for linguists are numerous: a degree in French combined with TEFL qualification will enable you to teach in a French-speaking country, while other options include banking and finance, personnel, marketing, tourism and jobs in the various EU institutions.
Do I have to spend a year abroad if I do French?
Not if you are a B.Ed. student... and it is a shame since spending a year abroad remains one of the most enriching and exciting experiences one can get! But it is our view that nobody should be forced to spend a semester or a year in one of our many partner institutions in France enjoying good food, good weather and good company, discovering new places and new people and getting to improve their language skills while having fun at the same time!!!
What will I do if I spend a year in France as part of my degree?
You can either go as an exchange student to one of our partner institutions or work as an English language assistant in a French school. In the first case, you will receive an Erasmus grant from the EU and in the second case you will be paid to teach.
How many students choose to study French in First Year?
Normally more than 120 students. So you will not feel lonely!
Can I do both French and Irish in Second Year?
Yes you can! The only subjects you cannot combine with French are Geography and Theology & Religious Studies.