Location

The University of Notre Dame has offered a year-long program of study in France since 1966, when the Stage Université Notre-Dame en France (SUNDEF) was created in association with the Université Catholique de l’Ouest, located in the provincial city of Angers. Angers, population 240,000, is the capital of the former province of Anjou and of the present Department of Maine-et-Loire. Situated in the heart of the historic Loire Valley at the confluence of the Maine and Loire rivers, Angers is less than two hours by train from Paris and about one hour from the Atlantic port city of Nantes. The region has long been known for slate production, vineyards, orchards and commercial flower growing. The city’s cathedral dates from the 12th century; the 13th-century castle which abuts the waterfront was built by Saint Louis. Old city walls have now given way to broad tree-lined boulevards and modern architecture, but the heart of the city, with its winding, narrow streets and old houses, maintains its medieval charm.

Program of Study

SUNDEF operates in conjunction with the Université Catholique’s Centre International d’Etudes Françaises (CIDEF) under the supervision of a member of the Notre Dame faculty. Year-long study in Angers is encouraged, but students with special circumstances may apply for one semester of study through SUNDEF. The academic year includes a four-week preliminary session (the Préstage) in September followed by a fall semester (mid-October to February) and a spring semester (mid-February to June). The Préstage, taught by professors from the Université Catholique de l’Ouest, offers intensive language instruction and an opportunity to adapt slowly to French university traditions. Included in the program are field trips to various sites in Angers, the chateaux of the Loire Valley and Atlantic coastal communities. Student earn three academic credits for this intensive session.

Courses fulfill curricular requirements or electives at the University of Notre Dame. Students may choose from courses offered for international students through CIDEF, or a limited number of specially designed courses taught by SUNDEF adjuncts or the Notre Dame faculty member then serving as director of the program. Students with high levels of proficiency in French may take regular courses in l’Université Catholique. The normal course load is 15 credits. Core courses include French Language, French Literature, History of the Arts, History, Philosophy and Theology. Specially designed courses vary from year to year. Descriptions of recent offerings can be found in the Undergraduate Bulletin of the University of Notre Dame or click here for links to course information.

Grades are assigned according to the American system, and course results are entered on student records at the University of Notre Dame where they are included in the computation of grade point averages.

Eligibility for the Program

The program in France is open to qualified students of the University of Notre Dame. A limited number of students from other institutions may be accepted if space permits. While most of the participants are sophomores, juniors and seniors may participate with approval of the chair of their major department and the dean of their college. Most participants have studied French in high school. All candidates must take an intensive or approved French course through the intermediate level and participate in orientation sessions during the year.

Candidates must have a strong overall average and at least a B in French; must demonstrate adaptability to new situations; desire and motivation for residence and study abroad; and be free of serious moral, social or psychological problems. Participants are chosen by a selection committee for International Study Programs. Application deadline: November 15.

Additional Information

There is much more we can tell you — about this location, vibrant religious, cultural and recreational life of this community ... about the student housing, transportation, health care and much, much more. It is, after all, the details that make this program so appealing. Interested? Just click here for additional information.