In New England, and particularly in Maine, citizens of French Canadian and Acadian descent comprise approximately 25 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, contact Prof. Susan Pinette at 213 Little Hall, (207) 581-3791, susan_pinette@umit.maine.edu.
The University of Maine The University of Maine
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