e3 French Alps

City: Grenoble Country: France

Overview

Explore the World with e3 French Alps: Study, Work, and Adventure!

Ready to make your university experience unforgettable?

The University of Alberta’s e3 program offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to study and work abroad in the stunning French Alps. With e3, you get to design your journey by blending academic courses, real-world work experience, and unforgettable cultural adventures—all in one incredible location.

Whether you're seeking to boost your resume, immerse yourself in French culture, or explore the great outdoors, e3 French Alps gives you the freedom and flexibility to create an experience uniquely yours.

e3 French Alps combines:

French language study
Academic coursework
Internship placement (work or research)

_{"Yes, I would absolutely recommend this program to other students. This is a great opportunity to understand other cultures and to be better informed about global issues. The modules in the program are helpful in terms of language learning, assisting with language barriers, and giving us the experience of working in our fields abroad through the internship" e3 French Alps participant}

When Can I Go?

Terms Offered: Spring, Summer

Dates & Duration:

Module I (French language): TBD 2025
Module II HADVC 311/511 May 5 - 22, 2025*
Module II POL S 398 May 5 - 22, 2025*
Module III (Internship): TBD 2025**

_{*Undergraduate course has no prerequisites}

_{** Internship dates are determined by the host}

Deadlines to Apply:

e3 Internship: Nov. 8, 2024
Coursework only: Feb.2, 2025 (or until program full)

Eligibility Requirements

e3 is open to ALL post-secondary students from all disciplines. Non-University of Alberta students are welcome to apply!

See more detailed Eligibility.

Note: Module III (non-credit Internship) cannot be taken alone. It must be combined with Module I (French Language Studies) and/or Module III (Academic Courses).

Program Information

Language of Instruction: English, French

Module I: French Language Studies (FREN 111; 112; 211; 212; 297)

Students can choose to take 3* or 6* credits from the following French Courses FREN 111; FREN 112; FREN 211; FREN 212; FREN 297.

Students can take a *3 course or take *6 in both terms.

Dates for the courses: TBD June-July 2025

*FREN 297 = FRAN 216 for Campus St. Jean students. CSJ students must speak with their academic advisors about how these courses fit with their program.

All students taking French language courses under e3 French Alps will be required to take two language placement tests to assess and determine their level of study at UAlberta and the corresponding level in France. To ensure success in the requested course abroad, it is strongly recommended that students present at least a B- in the previous level.

_{"I enjoyed the French language learning experience at CUEF. The class sizes were small (5-15 students), and the professors were able to focus on each of us individually. Once a week, we had field trips where we learnt about the culture and history of the city."} _{e3 French Alps 2017 Participant}

Module II: Academic Course(s)

HADVC 311/511 May 5 - 22, 2025

Internationally recognized Dr. McTavish, immerses students in the rich local culture of Grenoble by exploring the visual strategies of display and storytelling at its diverse museums, parks, and historic sites. Students will analyze how different sites—ranging from a Revolutionary museum to contemporary art exhibits—shape public perception, identity formation, and tourism. With McTavish’s expertise in critical museum theory and French visual culture, participants will critically evaluate how objects are curated, displayed, and interpreted in various settings, making Grenoble the ideal backdrop for this hands-on experience.

POL S 398 May 5 - 22, 2025

Dr. Heyes’ course offers an exploration of the cultural and political dynamics of work and leisure in France. Known for its vibrant urban life, ideals of republican freedom, and stunning terrains, France also boasts a unique approach to work, with a legislated 35-hour workweek, numerous public holidays, and a nationwide summer vacation. In contrast to these ideals, Grenoble—sometimes called “France’s Silicon Valley”—is a hub for deep-tech investment, where work and play may diverge from traditional French norms. Through informal ethnography and academic readings, students will examine key concepts such as social acceleration, the work ethic, Slow culture, and leisure-as-freedom, reflecting on how locals navigate the balance between work and leisure.

Module III Non-credit Internship: May-August, 2025*

_{*Dates approved by internship provider}

Jumpstart Your Career with a Dynamic Internship in Europe!

Imagine spending your summer gaining hands-on experience in a field you’re passionate about—right in the heart of Europe! Through our e3 French Alps program, you can embark on a 6- to 8-week internship in June and July, working with innovative companies and organizations across France and beyond. These internships are designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the professional world, allowing you to apply what you’ve studied in a real-world setting while making valuable contributions to your host organization.

Our internships are tailored to a wide range of academic disciplines, ensuring that no matter your major, an exciting opportunity awaits you. Whether you're interested in business, arts, technology, or social sciences, we’ll help you find a placement that aligns with your career goals and the unique themes of our program.

To qualify for this transformative experience, you’ll need to complete Module I and/or Module II to be eligible for an internship. And don't worry—you won’t be navigating this journey alone. Our dedicated local coordinator in Europe will work closely with you to secure an internship that fits your skills and interests, making sure your time abroad is as enriching as possible.

_{"I enjoyed the cultural immersion from the e3 French Alps program. I appreciated the challenges and small victories when I succeeded at conversing with others in French. Not only that, the friends and acquaintances I met broadened my global perspectives through our conversations."} _{e3 French Alps 2017 participant}

Fees & Costs

e3 French Alps consists of 3 modules, which can be taken in different combinations. Students can elect to take one, two, or all three modules. The amount students pay is determined by the number of components students participate in. In addition, students are responsible for all other costs, such as accommodation, food, insurance, books, flights/transportation, non-instructional fees, and other personal expenses. Students can explore the different tracks available and estimated total program costs via the links below:

e3 French Alps Program Fees