Program Information: L'Universite Catholique de L'Ouest (UCO)

About L'Universite Catholique de L'Ouest (UCO)

You can choose one of two different study options at UCO, or a combination of both. The first option is the French language program through the Centre International d’Etudes Françaises (CIDEF). You can enroll in the intensive language program in the fall, winter, or summer. Alternatively, you can apply to study in integrated courses with French students during the fall or winter semesters. Students interested in the integrated courses are encouraged to attend a one-month intensive French course in August prior to starting integrated classes in the fall semester. If you are proficient in the French language you are encouraged to consider the latter option. Courses in French include history, biology, economics, psychology, mathematics, business, art history, anthropology, communications, environmental sciences, and more.

L’Université Catholique de L’Ouest (UCO) is located in Angers, France, the gateway to the Loire Valley. Angers has a lively town center filled with cinemas, cafés, restaurants, and bars. Established over 129 years ago, UCO is home to more than 12,000 students. Although UCO is a private Catholic school, students of all backgrounds and faiths are welcome. The University is located in the city centre and is just minutes away from shopping, local parks and historical monuments.

Eligibility

The program is open to GVSU students in good academic standing who have some French language skills. Students with only intermediate-level skills in French should enroll in the CIDEF intensive French course for the month of September before enrolling in regular UCO courses. Please consult the French section of GVSU’s Modern Languages & Literature for academic.

Housing

The staff of UCO’s International Relations Office (Office des Relations Internationales) will arrange a homestay for you.

Students can apply for housing a student residence that serves students from UCO, ESSCA and the University of Angers. The student residence is located next to a tram line and offer both single and double units with common living and eating areas.

Academic Program & Courses

Students have two choices when selecting this program: UCO integrated courses or the CIDEF language and culture program. Students selecting CIDEF can choose from a range of courses in French Language and Literature, as well as many other courses that will allow you to complete a GVSU custom study abroad theme. Students advanced in the French language may choose to take courses through the University with French students. Subjects include: literature, languages, fine-arts, history, music, psychology, sociology, management, communication, education, mathematics, computer science, statistics, environmental studies, and more..

• Summer: June/July/August (1,2, or 3 months)
• Fall: October—January (December departure possible) + Optional September intensive language course February-June (UCO integrated is January—May)
• Winter Academic year: September—May + Optional August intensive language course

Access a list of courses other GVSU students have taken and current course equivalencies.

For additional information on how to apply, please click here.