French and European Studies
Why Study in Pau?
The Pau program offers an extraordinary opportunity to study the French language intensively, to take courses in other disciplines and to experience student life at a French university. Through formal coursework and personal interaction with the host culture, you will greatly expand your language skills and knowledge of French society. Pau is the perfect environment if you are looking for immersion into real traditional French culture in one of the most breathtakingly beautiful regions in France. It is small enough to have everything within walking or biking distance; however, it is large enough to have several theatres, good movie houses, student clubs, outdoor cafés and fantastic shops.
The Pau program offers an intensive language approach that allows you to complete up to one and a half years of university language coursework in one semester. Additional courses in subjects such as literature, political science, film, culture and art history are taught in English or French. You also may take a program-organized French Cuisine course just to impress your friends back home! You may choose to stay for one semester or a full year. The Pau program also offers a unique opportunity to enroll in integrated courses with other international students studying at the University of Pau.
However, the academic courses are only part of the intended value of the program. Field trips to Béarn, the Basque Country and Spain introduce you to the rich cultural diversity of the region, as does the optional tour to Paris. If you take this tour, you will spend four days in Paris studying the history, art and architecture of this magnificent city and one day in the Loire Valley visiting two of the most beautiful Renaissance castles as well as Versailles. Participation in a homestay, cultural events and local festivals also form an integral part of the program.
The Pau program has a Resident Director who is responsible for the overall operations of the program abroad: securing appropriate student housing, hiring outstanding faculty, organizing exciting field trips and optional tours and overseeing your general well-being.
Robina Müller is the Resident Director for the Pau program. She earned her Masters degree from the University of Pau and is fluent in French, German, Spanish and English. Robina will meet the group flight at the airport, organize transportation to your housing and provide an on-site orientation. The Assistant Director, Ryan Findley, a USAC alum, also provides support and resources while you are on the program.