Navigate Up
Sign In
Language & Culture, Univ. of Bordeaux
The language and culture program in Bordeaux offers intensive French language study at the intermediate (second-year) level and features a specially designed curriculum that improves oral and written language skills while providing a foundation in French culture and society. All course work is in French. The course of study in Bordeaux is designed for students with four to five quarters (two to three semesters) of beginning to intermediate university-level French.
 
Located in the southwest of France, Bordeaux is a city full of art, culture, and history with extraordinary 18th-century architecture and beautiful surroundings. Situated on the banks of the Garonne River in the largest wine region in the world, Bordeaux offers easy access to great beaches and the nearby mountains. Bordeaux is an ethnically diverse city and features a lively student culture and nightlife.
​
Students attend classes with international students.

Course Opportunities

French language and culture is the focus of this program.
 
You will take the following courses:
 
ILP: One intensive language and culture course (4 UC quarter units)
 
During the term:
 
  • One Intermediate or Advanced oral French course (5 or 6 UC quarter units, depending on the course)
  • One Intermediate or Advanced written French course (5 or 6 UC quarter units, depending on the course)
  • Three courses on French culture and society (for a total of 6.5 to 7.5 UC quarter units) or two courses on French culture and society + a research project (for a total of 9 units)
Use the following resources to learn about courses on EAP:
 
  • EAP Program Search provides information on general areas of study.
  • MyEAP Course Catalog lists courses previously taken by UC students. Additional courses may be available and not all courses may still be offered.
​

Units

You take a full-time course of study while abroad; 21 UC quarter units are required (approximately five courses).
​

Language of Instruction

French


Language Study

French


Internships, Research, and Independent Study

Internships for academic credit and independent study projects may be possible in this program. Arrangements are generally made at the EAP Study Center after arrival.
​

Duration

Go to the Participants section to see current or past calendars.
​
Fall :  
late August to mid- or late December ​
 

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  

  :  


You may extend your EAP participation from the fall to the spring with the approval of the Study Center Director and local university departments. ​

Housing

You can live in a homestay with a French family or in an apartment, either on your own or shared with a landlord or other UC students, international students, or French students. If you opt to live in an apartment you can choose from a list of rental addresses provided by the Study Center after you arrive. During the ILP you will live in a student residence hall after which you will move into your housing for the term.
​

On-site Support

EAP students are supported by UC’s network of EAP offices at every UC campus and partnerships with EAP host universities throughout the world. Local EAP staff in Bordeaux will help you integrate into the culture and provide assistance with academics, housing, safety, and other issues.
​
See the UCEAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).​

Host Institutions

University of Bordeaux

University of Bordeaux
The University of Bordeaux is the largest higher-education institution in southwestern France, established in 1441 by Archbishop Pey Berland. As a UCEAP student on the University of Bordeaux Language and Culture program you will take courses at the DEFLE (Département d'Etudes de Français Langue Etrangère), Bordeaux’s French language institution.
 
Bordeaux is the capital of the historical Aquitaine region, famous for its specific breed of grapes and wines. The city of Bordeaux is also near many exciting places for cultural and geographical excursions. Art buffs can spend a day at the Museum of Modern Art, while the outdoorsy type can go hiking in the Pyrenees Mountains. The university itself is host to many events and extracurricular activities that make international students feel welcome, whether it’s socials with French students, sports teams, dance programs, the university choir, or the orchestra.
 
  • Offers classes in all levels of French, as well as French literature and civilization courses designed for foreign students
  • Open to students, employees, and researchers, facilitating connections for other research or future opportunities
  • Intensive language learning and in-depth courses help students learn and perfect their French quickly​

Estimated Cost

Participation in UCEAP is a great value! The cost of studying abroad on UCEAP programs is typically less than that of non-UC study abroad programs. The dollar figures listed in the chart represent: 1) the amount of the fees that are paid directly to UCEAP in the current year, and 2) an estimate of the amount needed to cover personal living expenses in this location. Personal travel and entertainment are not included here.
 
Don't forget that you take your financial aid with you and the amount of your financial aid package will take into account the estimated TOTAL COST of this experience, as it is estimated below.
 
These expenses are estimated for 2012-13. Amounts will vary for 2012-13 participation due to potential changes to UC fees, exchange rate fluctuation, etc. Non-Resident Fees apply: If you are subject to out-of-state tuition at your UC campus, you will pay the same fees on UCEAP. For a more detailed breakdown of 2012-13 payment information, visit the Participants Portal and select the appropriate program. 
 
Here’s what is included in the estimate:
 
  • Predeparture expenses (student visa, health clearance, etc.)
  • Round-trip airfare
  • UC fees
  • Tuition at the University of Bordeaux
  • Accident and medical insurance
  • On-site orientation
  • Room and board
  • Program excursions
  • Books and other incidental expenses
  • Local transportation
  • Automatic transfer of credits and grades to your UC transcript
​

Estimated EAP Costs*

Options Cost
  • Fall
  • $16,500
*Based on most recent costs to the nearest $100.

Scholarships

UCEAP scholarships for the 2012-13 academic year are available. Please visit our scholarships overview page for general information and details  regarding eligibility requirements and application deadlines.

Application Requirements

Class Level:

Sophomore, Junior, Senior, Graduate

Language Prerequisites:

French
- The University-level language requirement is: minimum 4 quarters / 3 semesters and maximum 5 quarters / 3 semesters with a minimum language GPA of 2.85.

GPA:

2.85 cumulative GPA at the time of application and maintained through the end of the last term prior to departure.

Minimum Criteria:

 All applicants must also have:
  • Serious academic goals and a clear plan for integrating EAP studies into the student's UC degree program
  • Social and cross-cultural sensitivity; maturity; ability to adapt successfully to a different environment and an new education system; ability to assess and exhibit appropriate behavior in a variety of situations
  • A willingness to abide by program regulations
  • An endorsement by the Campus EAP Selection Committee and completion of all campus-specific requirements (an interview may be required)

Deadlines

Application deadlines and information on the application process are available through your Campus EAP Office. Supplemental predeparture materials will be required for many programs, including, but not limited to, host institution applications, visa and housing applications, medical clearances, etc.

For participation in the program, you must meet all deadlines and submit complete application materials.

Visit your Campus EAP Office for more information: