Meredith College sent its first students to the Universite Catholique de l'Ouest in the summer of 1986. Since then, the program has grown in popularity every year. "Meredith in Angers" is designed as a semester program, but students may pursue their studies for the entire academic year or in the summer.

The Universite de l'Ouest has a long-standing tradition of programs for students worldwide. The Catho's CIDEF, le Centre International d'Etudes Francaises, works closely with numerous U.S. institutions, including Meredith College, Notre Dame, and LSU.

For more information go to http://www.uco.fr/

Location
Angers, France is situated in the heart of the Loire valley about 180 miles from Paris. It boasts a small college atmosphere and friendly community. The city has a population of over 200,000 and is known for its wine, liqueurs, flowers, textiles, and clothing designs. Angers offers students the chance to step back in time with its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Aside from cathedrals and museums, Angers offers contemporary art, dance, theater, and international music.

Curriculum
Meredith students may receive up to 18 semester credit hours counting towards a French major or minor. There is a possibility of receiving elective credits in other disciplines as well, including sociology, art, history, philosophy, and music. All Meredith policies apply, including grading, attendance, and contact hours. Students who wish to have credit for a home stay must pre-register for FRE300 during their semester at Angers and complete the course during the semester after they return. For smoother transfer of credits from Angers, you must have your courses pre-approved by Dr. Brent Pitts (head of Foreign Languages and Literature) prior to departure. Some advice: take the highest level possible. Don't repeat any courses. Take at least one literature course.

Costs
Tuition, room, and board for the program is typically less than the cost of a semester at Meredith College. All federal, state, and college financial assistance (with the exception of work-study) are applicable to the semester or year program. Additional costs besides airfare and the round-trip train ticket are excursions, ISIC (International Student Identity Card), passport, spending money, and textbooks. Students may also wish to purchase a Eurail ticket for travel throughout Europe before leaving the U.S.

Housing
Students will either be lodged in a private house or matched with host families for their stay in Angers. There are a number of dining options including an on-campus dining hall.

Eligibility
Students are required to complete the full-year course in Intermediate French, FRE205-FRE206, or equivalent, before enrolling in courses at the CIDEF. It is recommended that students complete at least two courses in advanced French language study (any combination of FRE305, FRE306, or FRE307) before enrolling in courses at the CIDEF.

Deadline for Applications
Fall: March 1
Spring: November 1
Please see Dr. Brent Pitts for further information on applications and paperwork.
PittsB@meredith.edu