rennes canal and buildings sunny day
Rennes, France

Liberal Arts

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

14 - 18 semester hours

21 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

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Contact Us

Tentative Dates

-

17 weeks

Costs

Credit

14 - 18 semester hours

21 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Tentative Dates

-

38 weeks

Credit

14 - 18 semester hours

21 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Credit

14 - 18 semester hours

21 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Contact Us

Overview

Are you looking for a study abroad experience that takes you out of your comfort zone, helps you broaden your cultural awareness, develops new skills, and enables you to gain confidence in what you do and who you are? If so, this immersive Liberal Arts program in Rennes is perfect for you! Rennes is a charming, medium-sized college town about an hour and a half outside Paris. Here, you'll experience a part of France that is outside the typical French stereotype for a true feel of authentic regional culture.

When class is in session, you'll enjoy an enriching, diverse environment and international school experience at CIREFE (Centre International Rennais d'Etudes de Français pour Etrangers). In addition to the coursework you'll take relevant to your degree, you'll participate in language and content courses in French alongside students from all over the world. You may also seize the opportunity to attend classes with French students at Université Rennes. Through our teaching internships, you'll gain an insider's perspective of the French educational system, acquire new pre-professional skills, and earn credits teaching English as a foreign language in Rennes.

Outside the classroom, you can participate in co-curricular activities such as music, singing, theater, journalism, cinema, and radio host institution's workshops. Excursions organized by CIEE enhance classroom learning and take advantage of volunteer opportunities to make a difference in your education while having a unique French and Breton experience.

Unique Experiences

Not a typical destination

Students will have an authentic French & Breton experience and that’s what will make this experience so unique!

Enjoy an immersive and rich intercultural experience

Immerse yourself into French life by living with a host family signing a language pledge, opting for the diploma track, and embracing the international diversity at your host institution.

Make a difference locally

as you earn credit and experience teaching at a Rennes school or volunteer at the Franco-American Institute – the last remaining bi-national institute in France.

63K

students

7

concert halls with more than 500 seats

5

museums

Experience
  • rennes girls michel castle
  • rennes study abroad guys street

Your Destination

The capital of Brittany is a perfect blend of city and small-town life. Located just an hour and a half west of Paris by train and an hour from the sea, Rennes is known for technology and dynamic economy. The city is consistently rated as one of the best places to live in France and provides study abroad students the opportunity to learn the distinct Celtic traditions particular to this region of France. half-timbered medieval houses in the historic center contribute to the city’s esthetic charms and contrast with more recent and modern urban architecture. Rennes’ 60,000-strong student population gives the city a young and vibrant feel, with a rich variety of cultural events. Despite its small size, Rennes has everything a big city would offer and MORE: arts, food, sports, festivals, concerts, shopping, urban life, country life, and nature. There is always something going on in Rennes! What students like about Rennes is its human scale: the city is not too big, not too small, safe, and accessible thanks to its excellent bus and metro transport system. After a couple days in Rennes, students can navigate the city very easily, and within just a few weeks develop new routines and seek their soon-to-be favorite crêperies, bakeries, cafés, and boutiques! The city is well connected thanks to its conveniently located small international airport - with destinations to Amsterdam, Barcelona Berlin, Lisbon, London, Prague, and Rome - and European train station. 

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Rennes.

The Culture

group of students abroad rennes flowers

Other Excursions & Activities

  • Indulge in delectable crêpes and other regional specialties and become familiar with Rennes by involving your senses: observation, taste, smell, and hearing. 
  • Corsairs: ruthless crews in swift, silent ships, swooping in to rob and pillage, then stealing away to their safe harbors in Saint-Malo. Explore Brittany’s privateers’ haven and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery from the walled city of Saint-Malo.   
  • Get involved in music, theatre, singing, short-film making, journalism, and radio broadcast after-class workshops at your host institution, and improve your French in a hands-on way! 
  •  Embark on a journey through time as you discover medieval cities such as Fougères, Dinan, or Vannes 
  •  Take part in one overnight excursion (possible destination: Paris, South of Brittany, Normandy, or Loire valley) 
student teaching english abroad rennes france

Teach English for Credit

Teach English at a local primary, middle, or high school. Get experience, learn more about the French educational system, immerse yourself, and give back to the community while earning academic credit. Interested students must enroll in one methodology course conducted in French and are responsible for preparing a one-hour lesson in English per week. Final grade is based on lesson plans, homework assignments, class observations, and final take-home essay. The Center Director and/or TEFL course instructor oversee(s) the experience and evaluates students’ performance. Positions are limited. 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

“Petits” Discoveries Every Day

By CIEE Rennes at CIEE

Language is a tool that opens a door for you to explore a new culture, people, tradition, and more. Its acquisition can take any method: studying grammar and vocabulary by... keep reading

From CIEE

A Day in My Life in Rennes, France

By CIEE Rennes at CIEE

When I decided to study abroad in France, something I had always dreamed of doing, I knew that my life here would be a lot different than what I was... keep reading

From CIEE

Shopping In Rennes : A Chance to Explore New Places and a Form of Self-Care

By CIEE Rennes at CIEE

When I decided to study away in Rennes, I knew that I would spend part of my time going to shops throughout various parts of Rennes. Most of the time... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

This French language immersion program is designed for intermediate- to advanced-level French students who want to take their language skills to the next level while learning about French culture and society. Prior to coming to France, students take an online placement test. Once on site, they take an intensive two-week language and culture course that includes 20 hours of language and civilization coursework and 10 hours of cross-cultural analysis and cultural adaptation meetings. Upon completion of the preliminary language and culture course, students are placed in one of six language learning levels, each with a prescribed set of courses at the Centre International Rennais d’Etude du Francais pour Etrangers (CIREFE) at Université Rennes II. All students are encouraged, regardless of their language level, to consider auditing a regular course at the Université Rennes II; students in the advanced language levels (C1/C2) may opt to take one or two regular university courses for credit alongside French students. Students agree to speak only French during the program to encourage language and cultural acquisition. 

Université Rennes II was established in 1969 and hosts more than 24,000 students. The campus is located a mile from Rennes’ downtown, just an 8-minute metro ride from the historic center.

CIREFE, which can be considered as a department within Université Rennes II, was created in 1983 and hosts on average 300-500 international students (40-60 nationalities represented) each semester. 

GPA

Students need to have a GPA of at least 2.5

Language Requirements

GPA of 3.0 in French language, 4 semesters of college-level French (or equivalent) 

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Requirements

Students are required to take:

  • 1 CIEE Preliminary Language and Culture course (2 credits, taught upon arrival before the start of regular classes)  
  • 1 CIREFE semester language course at level of placement (Levels A1–C2, typically 4-6 credits) 
  • 3 to 5 CIEE and/or CIREFE elective courses (2 or 3 credits each). Students placed in the Advanced Level at CIREFE can take 1 or 2 regular courses at the Université Rennes II depending on total credit load.

Program Credit

Total credit range: 14-18 U.S. semester/21-27 quarter credits  

Course Credit

  • CIEE courses: 2-3 U.S. semester/3-4.5 quarter credits; 30-45 contact hours 
  • Université Rennes II courses: 2-6 U.S. semester/3-9 quarter credits; 26-78 contact hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Academic Culture

French students specialize in one discipline from the start, with a prescribed set of courses and limited electives. Professors in France are more formal than in the U.S. and French students are generally self-disciplined and do not look to their instructors for motivation to succeed. CIREFE, where CIEE students take most of their classes, provides some individual attention to international students, but students should expect to be independent and self-directed. Syllabi are seldom as detailed as in the U.S. and students need to determine what’s important. There is strong emphasis on writing skills because many international students at CIREFE go on to study at French universities and need a strong command of the written language. Core language classes at each level emphasize written French and written work is considered the most reliable indicator of competency. Thus, French professors are concerned with students’ ability to demonstrate logical thinking and produce well-structured written arguments.

Class Format

Students take most of their classes at CIREFE with other international students. Our students often describe their experience at CIREFE as studying at an international school and enjoy this mutually enriching diverse environment and intercultural experience. The average class duration is 2 hours. The average class size is 14-18 students depending on class subjects and levels. All CIREFE courses are taught in French. Université Rennes II classes are open to French students. Advanced CIEE students may enroll in one or two courses at Université Rennes II and must attend lectures, complete assigned work, and take exams as scheduled. Classes meet Monday through Friday. Students usually take 2 two-hour classes per day.   

Grading

Assessment is typically based on essays, tests, oral presentations, out-of-class project reports, participation, midterm, and final exams. Students can expect at least two major exams per term. The final exam may count for up to 50 percent of the final grade. Teachers notice when students are absent, and this can affect grades. Université Rennes II professors use a French grading scale of 0 to 20. CIEE and other international students who take Rennes II courses are also graded on this scale. CIEE converts all final grades into recommended U.S. letter grade equivalents. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Language of Instruction

French

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors.

Courses

Course Information

Course Notes

  • Students will register for courses after arrival and after completing the CIREFE online language placement test. 
  • In case of insufficient enrollment, some courses may not be offered. Courses are offered in the fall and spring semesters unless otherwise indicated. All courses are junior and senior-level.  

DUEF DIPLOMA (DIPLÔME UNIVERSITAIRE D’ETUDES FRANÇAISES)
Students can opt for a diploma track and receive a diploma from Université Rennes II/CIREFE that validates their academic coursework and their level in French at the end of the semester. Although this diploma will not be necessarily recognized in the U.S., this track may be of interest to students who wish to pursue future academic or professional endeavors in French, in France or in Europe.

The CIREFE diploma (Diplôme Universitaire d’Etudes Françaises - DUEF) is offered to all students who complete a specific list of courses. In the CIEE course listings, these courses correspond to the required language courses plus the recommended language and culture courses, and one to four electives depending on the level at which students are placed. 

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Education

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Education

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

CIREFE COURSES
A1 (BREAKTHROUGH LEVEL) & A2 (WAYSTAGE LEVEL)

A1: BREAKTHROUGH LEVEL - Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows, and things he/she has.

A2: WAYSTAGE LEVEL - Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can perform simple and routine tasks that require a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

Students who place into CIREFE’s A1 and A2 take the following four French language required courses and one civilization class.

REQUIRED COURSES

French Language - The focus of this course is to expand the student’s ability to express him/herself in a concise manner. Students write short, well-organized texts in which they use indirect discourse, description, retelling, and simple argumentation. Students learn how to construct descriptive, narrative, and argumentative texts by learning logical connectors, more complex verb tenses, cause and effect, hypothesis and the conditional, and finally, opposition and concession. There are weekly one-hour laboratory sessions and writing assignments. Contact hours: 78 classroom hours and 26 language lab hours (8 hours per week including 2 hours of laboratory) in A1 or 78 classroom hours and 13 language lab hours (7 hours per week including 1 hour of laboratory) in A2.  

From Listening Comprehension to Written Expression - This class is designed to help students increase their listening comprehension through various audio/visual materials by learning to recognize distinct information and then responding through written work with the appropriate and newly acquired lexical, grammatical, and syntactic tools. Students are guided in acquiring a more natural expression in French. They also learn to structure a text in a coherent manner using logical links, pronouns, and expressions of substitution so as not to repeat themselves. By producing their own written texts, students learn how to relate an incident, a visit, or an experience in various tenses; to integrate examples or arguments; and to reconstruct spoken language into indirect discourse.  

From Written Comprehension to Oral Expression - By working on comprehension of various written documents, students improve their oral expression by listening to rhythm and intonation, then producing a global synthesis and pointing out pertinent details.  

Oral Expression - Students increase their oral French proficiency through spoken exercises that concentrate on introducing oneself, purchasing something in a store, pointing out directions, etc.  

French Civilization and Culture: Initiation – Students explore French culture in its various lifestyles: family, students, and leisure in Brittany. Students participate in interactive communicative exercises to comprehend and practice introducing oneself appropriately in different contexts, requesting information, inviting/refusing an invitation, etc.  

B1 (BREAKTHROUGH LEVEL)

Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, and leisure situations. Can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest.

REQUIRED LANGUAGE COURSES

French Language - This course emphasizes the ability to express oneself in diverse communicative settings. Students are taught to report an event in the past tense; to express tastes, feelings, or opinions using the subjunctive and relative pronouns; to formulate hypotheses; to express certainty, uncertainty, or fear using the subjunctive and conditional; and to announce or expose a factual event using the correct form of past verb tense and/or voice. Students apply these skills to argumentative discourse and concentrate on logical syntactical connectors, causes, consequences, goals, expressing opposition, and concession. Weekly one-hour laboratory sessions take place, and writing assignments are given.  

From Listening Comprehension to Written Expression - Students work on improving their listening comprehension skills through various audio/video recordings, by learning to recognize distinct information, and then responding through written work with the appropriate and newly acquired lexical, grammatical, and syntactic tools. Through activities using written French, students advance in their ability to produce correct sentence structure using the appropriate vocabulary. In writing assignments with specific syntactical and style constraints, they are asked to produce work that reflects daily life in France—emails, letters asking for information, report of a visit or an event, and description of places or objects. Emphasis is placed on making coherent connections, avoiding repetition through use of pronouns and alternative expressions.  

RECOMMENDED LANGUAGE COURSES

It is recommended that students at this level take the following courses.

Oral Expression – Students increase their fluency through spoken exercises that concentrate on expressing emotions, feelings, opinions, obtaining information, and matters concerning daily life in France.  

French Civilization and Culture: Introduction - This is an introduction to politics, contemporary society, and cultures of France, with a focus on the lexicology needed to understand French society more fully. Authentic materials are used, such as newspaper and magazine articles and films.  

ELECTIVE COURSES

Introduction to Modern Art - This course examines and analyzes the Impressionist movement as a precursor to 20th century art. Students learn how to analyze a painting according to aesthetic and sociohistorical criteria.

Cinéma - Films are used to analyze French as spoken in everyday contexts, become aware of cultural and social phenomena depicted in French films of the last 20 years, and introduce film analysis and cinematic codes of communication. Students view films, read scripts and reviews, and discuss socio-cultural connotations and elements.

History of France – Students will understand key moments in French history from the end of the Ancient Roman period to the end of the 20th century through the study of texts and audiovisual documents (maps, films extracts) and historical figures (Clovis, Charlemagne, Jeanne d’Arc, François 1er, Louis XIV, Louis XVI, Robespierre, Napoléon 1er, Charles de Gaulle).

Introduction to French Literature – Students will be introduced to French literature through the exploration of different literary genres (i.e., descriptive, narrative, poetic texts) using a thematic approach. Students are given the necessary vocabulary for literary analysis. Focus is on 20th Century literature.

Writing Practice – Designed to help students foster better writing practices in French. Working with short texts, students are asked to produce variations changing gender and number; narrator’s point of view; verb tenses and modes; and vocabulary and form. Students keep a journal and write weekly passages on a chosen topic.

B2 (VANTAGE LEVEL)

Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialization. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that make regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.

REQUIRED LANGUAGE COURSES

French Language – Students work on improving their French language skills by moving from basic sentence structure to compound phrases; this is achieved in part by learning to accurately express: feelings, wishes, orders, advice, causes, consequences, and opposition. Special emphasis is placed on structuring one’s thoughts and students produce argumentative texts that rely upon grammatical tools such as verb tense/cause and effect, logical ties, vocabulary to enhance or depreciate; ordering of arguments and examples; and ability to recognize thesis/antithesis.  

Written Expression and Reading Comprehension – This course aims to develop the student’s comprehension of written French (developing reading strategies, going from global comprehension to more detailed comprehension) as well as the student’s written expression, using mainly authentic documents. The activities used for written expression and comprehension may be used in tandem to help deepen the student’s skills and understanding of both.  

RECOMMENDED LANGUAGE COURSES

It is recommended that all students take the following courses.

Oral Expression – Students will develop competence in oral expression. This is not a conversation class, but rather a class aimed at improving the student’s linguistic and communication skills. The student will practice describing, explaining, arguing, and improvising. This course will offer interactive activities aimed at improving oral expression. The student will be evaluated throughout the semester, while participating in role-play activities as well as short, individualized interventions. Contact hours: 26 (2 hours per week).

Oral Comprehension – Students will develop oral comprehension in French (developing listening strategies, going from global to more detailed comprehension) using mainly authentic documents.  

French Civilization and Culture – This class includes analysis and discussion of current events in the French press, radio, and television. Students are given the necessary historical and cultural background to better understand current affairs. Topics include regionalism and Breton culture and identity, political and social institutions, the educational system, and cultural heritage.  

ELECTIVE COURSES

Students enroll in at least two of the following courses.  

Cinéma – Students will develop a mastery of cinema-related vocabulary and initiate students to a cinematic reflection and analysis, while also offering a look at certain emblematic works of French cinema.  

French Literature – Based on literary excerpts and novels adapted to films, this course initiates students to textual analysis by examining several literary genres and movements representing a historic and stylistic coherence and applying basic analytical approaches to texts. Themes and authors studied in the fall include the difficulty of being (Cohen), hell with others (Sartre), and passion as an escape (Stendhal, Duras). Themes and authors studied in the spring include the passing of time (Ronsard, Kristof), the war (Prévert, Duras), social differences (Hugo, Proust) and escape through travel (Nothomb).  

Francophonies – Using various cultural aids including film, music, radio, television, the press, and literature from the many French-speaking regions throughout the world, this course helps students understand the diversity and richness of these different countries and cultures. It also asks students to reflect on the question of identity in both an individual and a societal context. The notion of “francophonie” itself is studied in both historic and literary terms. Several cultural events organized throughout the region offer an opportunity for students who would like to have a more “hands-on” exploration of la francophonie.  

France in the World During the 20th Century – This course proposes to explore the geopolitical importance, financial expansion, and cultural influences of France in the world at the beginning of the 20th century through different themes: The colonial Empire at its peak (1920-1940): territories, organization, economy, colonizers and colonized peoples; Crises, stages and consequences of the decolonization (1945-1960) in Asia, North Africa, and West Africa; Geopolitics of the Francophony in today’s world; France and Europe.

Creative Writing – Students will discover the pleasure of writing personal essays in a foreign language and reading those of classmates from different cultures. Writing assignments focus on a variety of styles. Through continual revision and rewriting, students develop self-editing skills and learn to self-correct.  

French for Business – Students will be introduced to the business world and study the professional know-how (identifying and classifying different types of businesses, comparing business cultures, defining a branch of industry, consulting and/or drafting a job advertisement, etc.) and the economic environment (understanding the subprime crisis, Europe and the debt crisis, etc.).  

C1 (EFFECTIVE-PROFICIENCY LEVEL) & C2 (MASTERY LEVEL)

C1 (EFFECTIVE-PROFICIENCY LEVEL)

Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts and recognize implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.

C2 (MASTERY LEVEL)

Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.

Students who place into C1 and C2 are required to take two two-hour French language classes. Students take three or four additional courses from the list of electives. The C1 level is offered in the fall and the spring, while the C2 level is only offered in the spring.

REQUIRED LANGUAGE COURSES

French Language (C1 & C2) – In this course, students will reinforce and master their knowledge of the basic structures of the spoken and written language (to talk about the past, report what someone else has said, and argue). Students will work on the nuances of the language such as how to formulate degrees of appreciation (formulas for toning down and intensifying), degrees of intensity (superlatives, adverbs, prefixes, and suffixes), and negative and positive nuances, and will learn to master the verb “devoir” plus infinitive (capacity, authorization, or possibility), the verb “pouvoir” plus infinitive (obligation or supposition), the passive pronominal forms “se laisser,” “se voir,” plus infinitive.  

Written Expression and Reading Comprehension (C1 & C2) – This course aims to develop the student’s reading comprehension (developing reading strategies, going from global to more detailed comprehension) and written expression, using authentic documents. Reading comprehension and written expression activities may be used in tandem to help deepen the student’s skills and understanding of both. The student will need to produce at least one written exercise each week, either in class, at home, or both.  

RECOMMENDED COURSES

It is recommended that all students take the following courses.

Oral Expression (C1 & C2) – The objective of this course is to develop the student’s competence in oral expression. This is not a conversation class, but rather a class aimed at improving the student’s linguistic and communication skills. The student will practice debating, exhibiting, taking/keeping the floor, modifying one’s speech, reformulating, handling difficult or hostile questioning, and writing a press review. This course will offer interactive activities aimed at improving oral expression.  

Phonetics (C1 & C2) – This course provides students with a background in phonetics and improved pronunciation. The course follows a systematic study of French phonetics, including the classification of French vowels and consonants according to mode of articulation, phonetic transcription of French, and work on intonation.

Grammar Reinforcement (C1) – The goal of this course is to improve the following skills: grammar, vocabulary and spelling. Students will work on eliminating almost fossilized errors and expanding prior language knowledge that requires revision.  

From Oral Comprehension to Expression (C1) – This course aims to develop the student’s competence in listening comprehension (developing listening strategies, going from global to more detailed comprehension) using authentic documents. Oral comprehension and expression activities may be used in tandem to help deepen the student’s skills and understanding of both.  

Oral Comprehension (C2) – This class aims to develop the student’s listening comprehension in French (developing listening strategies, going from global to more detailed comprehension) using mainly authentic documents.  

French Literature I: Representations of the Foreigner (C1) – The course looks at representations of the foreigner. French authors from the Renaissance to 20th century are analyzed to reveal figures of style—discrepancies with natives and questioning one’s status as foreigner and nostalgia. Authors and themes studied in the fall include: Montesquieu & Voltaire (Criticism of French society), Flaubert & Gide (The search for one’s positive self-liberation), and Céline & Camus (The search for one’s negative self- alienation). Authors and themes studied in the spring include: Molière (The exoticism of the foreigner), Montaigne (The superiority of the foreigner), Etcherelli (Integration problems facing the foreigner), and Duras, Camus, & Cardinal (The story of French colonization).

French Literature II: The Theater (C1) – Students will follow the evolution of French theater across the centuries and analyze different forms of theatrical discourse—not only a text’s literary characteristics but also how a text’s characters interacts and communicates, and the specificities of a project meant to be both seen and heard by means of a public representation. In an effort to encourage oral debate, filmed extracts of each play will be projected in class, allowing students to reflect and comment on the staging and direction of each. During the fall semester, course studies will concentrate on the evolution of theatre across the centuries, using the works of six playwrights: Racine, Phèdre (classical theater in the 17th century), Hugo, Ruy Blas (romantic theatre in the 19th century), Beckett, Waiting for Godot (theatre of the absurd in the 20th century). During the spring semester, course studies will concentrate on 20th century contemporary theater (Sartre, Ionesco, Sarraute).

French Literature III: Fiction (C2) – In fictional works, narration is organized using various structures that this course will help to identify and to analyze. The objective is to explore different narrative forms by reading various works (both short stories and novels) based on categories defined in advance during the course.

French Literature IV: Literature, Women, and Gender (C2) – The objective of this course is to study the evolution of literary forms as well as social ideas in France from the 16th to the 21st century using major works written by women. This course is designed for students who like to read and who would like to learn how to understand a literary work based on French academic study criteria. The goal is to put together a file comparing the works of different female writers chosen by the student. The student will benefit from regular personal consultation with the instructor throughout the semester.

French Society I: Contemporary France through Current Events (C1) – This course analyzes French society through a study of current events of a varied nature: political, social, cultural, and other news items. Studying these events allow students to understand what is being talked about in the media and what could or might be a subject of daily conversation for the French, and to deepen the students’ understanding and questioning of French society, through current events.

French Society II: French and European Institutions (C1) – This course focuses on French and European institutions. Using both written and audiovisual documents, the course enables students to understand the implications of these institutions on French society. These presentations sometimes are accompanied by critical discussions in class. Areas of study include: French presidential and parliamentary regimes, the French constitution of the 5th Republic, centralization and decentralization, and institutions of the European Union.

French Society III: Problems in Contemporary French Society (C2) – Based on current events and using documents taken from the press and televised news reports, certain events are analyzed in a manner that shows how they express the questions, crises, and current evolutions of French society.

French Society IV: The French Press (C2) – This course is focused on becoming acquainted with various French newspapers (daily and weekly), and comparing them to each other. Students work to acquire the language of the press and learn to use the analytical tools which are specific to the press itself. The students are asked to write a special report on the subject of their choice. Current newspapers are furnished for the students each week.

ELECTIVE CIREFE COURSES

Open only to students in the C1 and C2 levels unless approved by CIREFE instructor and center director. 

C1 (Fall)

Features of the French Economy - This course offers an introduction to economics, including major theories and currents of thought. It provides an overview of history of the French economy from 1945. Topics include: an original economic model (state, capitalism, social democracy), economic growth 1945-1974 (reconstruction, the bases and branches of power, territorial and societal transformations), the integration in the European economic community, the French economy in crisis and the new world order (1974-2011).

History of Modern Art - The course begins with an examination of major avant-garde movements of the early 20th century including Fauvism, Cubism, Futurism, Constructivism, and Dada. Students are then exposed to the emergence and development of abstraction through the works of Kandinsky, Malevich, and Duchamp, among others.

Architecture and Arts of Colors at the Middle Ages - This course focuses on Breton architecture, with special emphasis on examples in Rennes. Using a number of specimens of civil architecture from the Middle Ages, both inside and outside the classroom, students learn to identify and appreciate the specifics of this architectural style.

French History: 1870 to 1914 - Providing an overview of the history of France from 1870 to 1914, the course begins with a brief introduction of the French Revolution. The focus is on France in 1870 and the Third Republic: the republican ideology, nation and nationalism in France at the end of the 19th century, the crises of the Republic (the Dreyfus affair).

Film Analysis: An Introduction - A hands-on introduction to film, this course provides students with an overview of French film culture, the methodological tools needed to analyze cinematic works, and the technical language used to discuss image and sound. The course engages the students in activities at Rennes II such as conferences with film experts and film festivals. 

C1 & C2 (Spring)

19th-20th Century French Architecture – This course offers an overview of French architecture, notably through the study of major works from famous architects such as Viollet-le-Duc to Jean Nouvel and symbolic architectural realizations during the period covered (la Tour Eiffel; les stations du "Métropolitain" à Paris; la Cité Radieuse; le musée du Quai Branly). Students go on an architectural tour in Rennes with their professor and learn how to recognize and understand various architectural styles from the 19th century until today and master the architectural vocabulary of this period.

The French Approach to International Relations – This course is an overview of France’s approach to international relations. Topics covered include France’s foreign policy, defense policy, relations with the U.S. and Russia, integration and role in the European Union, and foreign policy with respect to the Arab world and Africa.

History of Contemporary Art – The objective of this course is to sensitize students to the esthetics of contemporary art as well as furnish the analytical tools to evaluate and reflect on art of this period. Students are introduced to new concepts in 20th century art by examining specific examples of contemporary sculpture.

20th-Century French History – Students focus on the period of French history starting with WWI and leading to General de Gaulle’s Fifth Republic. Special emphasis is placed on France during WWII, the occupation and “Free France,” the liberation, and the short lived Fourth Republic.

Film Analysis: Reading Films – By exposing students to the art of scenario writing, narrative techniques, and the actual cutting of films, the course’s goal is to help students develop a better French film culture as well as more sophisticated means of film analysis. The course engages the students in activities at Rennes II such as conferences with film experts and film festivals.

The World of Work – See the panorama of the business world in France, as well as of French enterprise. It aims to develop four linguistic skills for professionals. The students will study the various aspects of the business world—companies (creation, operation, etc.), human resources, cover letters, resumes and interviews, as well as learning how to assess a firm’s current economic state.

Philosophy – The objective of this course is to introduce the foundations of Western philosophy, with a strong emphasis on French philosophy. The great authors—Descartes, Pascal, and the Enlightenment philosophers will be studied. Twentieth century French philosophy (Bergson, Sartre, Camus, Derrida, and Deleuze) will also be presented. Depending on the students’ interests, this course could also touch on authors situated at the margins of philosophy, such as Levi-Strauss (anthropology) and Lacan (psychoanalysis). The instructor will work from text extracts.

UNIVERSITÉ RENNES II COURSES

Students with advanced-level French language skills and the permission of the resident director may enroll in up to two regular Université Rennes II courses, taught in French, alongside French students. Listings for these courses are available to students upon arrival in France. In the past, CIEE participants have enrolled in such Rennes II courses as:

  • Arabic Language 
  • Art History: Contemporary Art 
  • Beginning Gaelic Language 
  • Breton Language, Culture and Civilization 
  • Cinema Studies: Silent Film 
  • Cognitive Psychology 
  • Cultural and Social Anthropology 
  • Economics 
  • Exclusion and Integration in Contemporary Societies 
  • Geography of Brittany 
  • Geography of Inequalities of Development in the World  
  • History of Cinema 
  • History of Women and Gender 
  • History: Women in the 20th Century 
  • Irish Poetry 
  • Islamic Religion, Society, and Civilization 
  • Maths applied to social sciences 
  • Political Economy 
  • Philosophy 
  • Psychology 
  • Sociology 

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • Stohl International Undergraduate Research Scholarships
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2024 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $20,950
Program Fall 2024 17 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $20,950
Program Academic year 2024-2025 38 weeks Start Date * End Date *
Program Spring 2025 18 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $16,706**

Housing = $3,750

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $20,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $900

International Airfare = $1,200††

Local Transportation = $150†††

Books & Supplies = $50

Visa Fees = $393††††

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500

Personal expenses = $250†††††

Total Costs = $3,443

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee:

Select Housing Fee = $750^

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day and more on weekends. For students in apartments, you should budget approx. $280 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Bus/metro pass

††††average cost, including Campus France regular service costs and onsite OFII fees

†††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

^first-come, first serve, based on availability

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $16,706**

Housing = $3,750

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $20,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $850

International Airfare = $1,200††

Local Transportation = $150†††

Books & Supplies = $50††††

Visa Fees = $393†††††

Potential travel to consulate for visa = $500

Personal expenses = $260††††††

Other = $55

Total Costs = $3,458

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee:

Select Housing Fee = $750^

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day and more on weekends. For students in apartments, you should budget approx. $280 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Bus/metro pass

††††Host institution provides course material packages to students

†††††average cost, including Campus France regular service costs and onsite OFII fees

††††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

^first-come, first serve, based on availability

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Meals

Staff

Our Staff

Daniel Audaz

Director

Daniel Audaz has been the Director of the CIEE program in Rennes since 2008. He is originally from Marseille and studied at the University of Aix-en-Provence (France) where he obtained his M.A. in Geography and then specialized in FLE/S (Français Langue Etrangère et Seconde).

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application
You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office 
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us 
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info