Tours, capital of the Garden of France, is surrounded by the famous Châteaux of the Loire.  It is famous for its history and its gentle way of life.  However, the richness of its architectural heritage and its natural environment should not overshadow its dynamism and modernity.  The Institut de Touraine, located in the center of town, welcomes students of all nationalities.  The teachers at the Institut de Touraine are all specialists in teaching French as a second language.  They have extensive experience of teaching French to multinational classes and are skilled in meeting the needs of their students.  Classes are small, which enables teachers to give individual attention to their students.  The Institut de Touraine in Tours will provide Hillsdale College students with a unique opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of French language and culture.  Qualified students (three semesters of French at college level or equivalent) may participate in this four-week summer program.  During their stay in France, students will be lodged with French families.

Eligibility:

The program is open to qualified students who have taken three semesters of French at the college level, or the equivalent.  All applications will be reviewed by the Modern Language Department and are subject to its approval.

Structure:

Upon arrival in Tours, all students will take a test to determine the courses in which they will enroll.  According to their level of competency, students will spend between 19 and 24 hours in classes per week and receive 4 credit hours at the 202 level or above.

Cultural Activities:

Excursions are organized twice a week by the Institute and available to students for a fee.  Tours is an historical center of great interest.  Furthermore, it is located at the heart of the Loire Castles Region.

Accompaniment:

A faculty member will meet the students in Paris for a three-day stay and accompany then to Tours.  His/her responsibility will be to help the students during the first week of their stay in France.  This will include the stay in Paris, the train trip from Paris to Tours, and supervision of the transition to the Institut de Touraine.

For more information, please contact Dr. Marie-Claire Morellec at 607-2409 or by email.

Hillsdale College also encourages students to participate in semester-long programs chosen in consultation with and by approval of a faculty member of the French section.