The semester in France program partners with the Centre Universitaire d'Etudes Francaises at the Université Grenoble Alpes, where you will take courses in French language and culture. You'll also live with a local family and learn about the French way of life firsthand.
To watch student-made video about the semester in Grenoble, use the password "France"
"Vous Pensez, I Think" from Lucas da Silva on Vimeo.
Grenoble, France
This university town is known for its great museums, fine dining and active nightlife. It is also a booming center for scientific research and high-tech industry.
Things to do
While in Grenoble you can:
- Ride the cable car up to the Bastille, and enjoy a gorgeous view of Grenoble
- Take public transit to one of the many mountain hiking trails
- Rent a bike for the semester and make use of the extensive network of bike lanes and paths to get around the city quickly and safely.
- Enjoy a wide range of traditional and avant-garde films, theater productions and concerts the city offers year-round
- The program also includes excursions to regional destinations like Villard-de-Lans and the Chartreuse Mountains and extended trips to Paris/Versailles, Lyon and Taizé.
Population
Approx. 158,000, with more than 500,000 in the metropolitan area.
Climate
Temperatures in Grenoble typically range from just below freezing in the winter to about 85°F (30°C) in the summer.
Basic Information
Location
Program Type
Cost
The France semester program is hosted at the Centre Universitaire d'Études Françaises. Students will earn 16 credit hours through CUEF and Calvin courses. Over the duration of this program, you will take one course from the program director:
- STFR 330: Contemporary France - An introduction to contemporary French culture through readings, discussions with guest speakers, and excursions. Begins late August with an orientation in Paris and Grenoble. Fulfills Global Regions & Cultures core, as well as French minor and major requirements (4 credits)
In addition, you will also take courses at CUEF on topics such as language, stylistics, translation, literature and culture. When you successfully complete these courses, you will receive credit for:
- STFR 315: Advanced Language Study in France
- STFR 316: Advanced Language Study in France II
- STFR 381: Special Topics
Contact Jolene Vos-Camy for additional information concerning courses at the CUEF, and learn more about direct-enroll transfer credits in academic services.
Overall classroom “seat-time” will be greater than a regular semester at Calvin (potentially between 18.5 and 20.5 hours). Homework assignments for CUEF courses, however, are typically less demanding.
Grading
The grades from the course given by the program director will be factored into your GPA. Grades from courses taken at the CUEF will be listed on your transcript but will not factor into your GPA.
Home stay in a French household in Grenoble.
The final program cost is expected to be within $1,000 of Calvin tuition and room and board on campus. More specific cost information will be sent with your acceptance letter. The financial information page covers the details that go into the cost of the program and rough estimates for each. The cost for the France semester will include:
- Tuition
- Local transit
- Room and board
- Program-related excursions
- Visa fees
Additional expenses not included in the program fee: books, medical insurance (required), passport, and personal spending money.
You must be of sophomore status and have a min. 2.5 GPA to study in France. Preference will be given to students studying French.
If you're interested in participating in this off-campus program, click the button below for a checklist that will walk you through the application process.
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