In New England, and particularly in Maine, citizens of French Canadian and Acadian
descent comprise approximately 35 percent of the population. The long-neglected
story of this ethnic community represents a crucial element in the history and
the current social dynamic of Maine and the Northeast, and constitutes a cultural
bridge to French Canada, particularly the neighboring provinces of Québec and
the Maritimes.
Franco American Studies is an interdisciplinary program that explores the French
cultures of the United States and Canada, emphasizing the people of Franco American
heritage in Maine and the Northeast region. It studies Franco American culture
within the broader context of American ethnic communities and other French-speaking
people worldwide. The curriculum is designed to teach the Franco American past
and present: topics of study include problems of identity, the politics of language,
literature, historical struggles, women’s issues and experience, economic structures,
and the role of family.
The program offers a minor in Franco American Studies as well as courses at all
levels. Students who wish to minor in Franco American Studies complete eighteen
credits, including FAS 101, and at least 3 other core courses, a selection of
“Related Courses” from the list below and a capstone experience. FAS 440 and FAS
442 are strongly encouraged, but not required.
For complete information about Franco-American Studies, visit the coordinator at
213 Little Hall, phone (207) 581-3791 or contact Prof. Susan Pinnette
susan_pinette@umit.maine.edu.
The University of Maine The University of Maine
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