In a world where English reigns supreme, where universities cut language programs, and where students weigh their studies against "practical" career paths, what happens to languages like French? Does it still hold weight in global affairs, or is it becoming a relic of the past? These questions aren’t just about one language—they’re about the value of multilingualism in an increasingly interconnected but English-dominated world. If French has long been a language of diplomacy, international organizations, and cultural power, what does its future look like? Who is still learning it, why does it matter, and how is it being positioned to remain relevant?

To dig deeper, I sat down with Brenda Dyer, Teaching Professor of French and Director of the Modern Languages Program at Drexel University. With decades of experience in language education, she has witnessed firsthand the rise and fall of French enrollments, the changing attitudes toward language learning, and the forces shaping its future. I wanted to understand what’s at stake - not just for students or universities, but for the role of French as a tool of soft power. What I found was a story far more intricate than I expected.

An Unexpected Path

Brenda Dyer never intended to study French. “The irony,” she admits, “is that I never actually wanted to study French.” Growing up, her focus was on German, the language of her mother’s family. But when her school district cut its German program, she had no choice. “I shrugged my shoulders at my junior high counselor and said, ‘Fine, I guess I’ll study French,’” she recalls. It was a decision of convenience, not passion, until her high school French teacher changed everything.

Through Impressionist art, music, and history, the language came alive. “We did a unit on the Impressionists, learned to identify paintings, listened to music, talked about history and culture. I just liked it.” Still, when choosing a college major, she was unsure of her future. The only certainty? She wanted to teach.

Encouraged by her advisor, “Mais vous êtes sérieuse? Il faut aller en France!” (“If you’re serious, you must go to France!”), she took a leap. In an immersive study-abroad program, she lived with a French-speaking host family, struggled through the language barrier, and embraced the culture. “I had never been anywhere,” she says. “I honestly believed this was my one opportunity to travel, to be in Europe. So I took full advantage.” The experience changed her life. “That was it. It opened my world. It changed everything. I just said, ‘I’m going to learn this language. This is what I’m going to do.’ And so I did it, and I loved it.”

At first, she planned to teach high school, but a frustrating volunteer experience pushed her away. “Every time I took a small group of students into the hall to work with them, the principal would interrupt to talk to one of the boys about football,” she recalls. “And I just thought, ‘No, I can’t deal with this.’”

She then pivoted to an internship in the Ohio governor’s office, which led to two years as a legislative aide. “I thought, ‘Maybe I want to do law or government.’” But something was missing. “I really missed French. And I really missed teaching.” After two years, she knew where she belonged. She returned to graduate school for French studies, setting her on the path to academia.

Looking back, she laughs at the journey. “If I had been at Drexel and had co-ops, I probably could have figured this out sooner,” she jokes. But in the end, she has no regrets. “It is what I love. So that’s good.”

The Decline of French Studies in U.S. Universities

Dyer is blunt about the state of French studies: “Oh, heck, yeah,” she says when asked if student interest has shifted. Citing the Modern Language Association’s (MLA) 2021 report, she explains that French enrollments, like overall language enrollments, are in decline. Language study in the U.S. peaked in 2009 but has steadily decreased, largely due to federal funding cuts, particularly to Title VI, which supports international and foreign language education. “There was a big drop in federal funding around 2010, and the decline has continued.” Despite this, French remains the second-most studied language in the U.S. after Spanish, though enrollments have dropped 23% since 2016.

At Drexel University, Dyer has witnessed these declines firsthand. Once the school’s second-largest language program, French has been surpassed by Japanese. She attributes part of this shift to the impact of COVID-19, which disrupted high school language instruction. “We used to get students who were placed into advanced courses after high school. Now, many who took four years of French are starting at 102 or 103, or even over.” With fewer students entering at higher levels, fewer continue to a certificate or minor.

Another major factor is the elimination of language requirements at universities. “At Drexel, some departments, like Political Science and History, dropped their language requirement without even telling us.” Previously, BA students were required to study a language through the 201 level; that was reduced to 103, and now some departments have removed the requirement entirely. “Two years ago, our enrollments suddenly dropped, and we realized departments had quietly dropped their requirements.”

Dyer argues that the devaluation of language learning starts well before college. High school programs are underfunded, and language classes are often dismissed as non-essential. “Many administrators and parents see language learning as playtime. Teachers aren’t given the support to challenge students.” This attitude carries into higher education, where students often see language courses as optional. “The mindset is, ‘Everyone speaks English, so why bother?’ But once students experience language learning firsthand, through study abroad, internships, or international work, they realize its value.”

Dyer sees these trends as part of a larger shift in American education, where STEM fields are prioritized over the humanities. “At a school like Drexel, with its tech-focused history, decision-makers don’t always understand what we do. And this isn’t unique to us. It’s a national trend.” She traces this shift to the early 2010s, when fears of falling behind China in science and technology led policymakers to increase STEM funding at the expense of the humanities. “STEM graduates start with higher salaries, but 15–20 years later, the people leading them are often those who studied the humanities.”

French programs also face a perception problem as many see Spanish as the only practical second language. “People think locally, and Spanish is dominant here. But globally, French is expanding, especially in Africa.” She points to China’s growing presence in Africa, where French is widely spoken. “China is investing heavily, while the U.S. ignores the region. Americans still see French as the language of Parisian fashion, not global diplomacy and trade.”

The biggest challenge for language programs, however, remains the elimination of foreign language requirements. “It’s a constant battle. Institutions keep saying, ‘Everyone speaks English. STEM is where the money is.’” Without structured incentives, fewer students enroll in language courses, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of decline. Minimum class size requirements only make things worse. “If a class doesn’t meet enrollment targets, it gets canceled. That disrupts the whole sequence, and students who might have continued drop out entirely.”

Without major policy changes, Dyer fears language study in the U.S. will continue its downward spiral, limiting students’ global opportunities and weakening the country’s cultural competency. “Learning a language isn’t just an academic exercise. It’s a vital skill in an increasingly globalized world.”

The Funding Issue

Faced with declining enrollments and funding cuts, Brenda Dyer and her colleagues have launched what she calls a “charm offensive” to promote French studies. “I do a lot of meet-and-greets,” she says, highlighting efforts like Drexel’s Global Expo, where faculty encourage students to take language courses. She also personally follows up with students who stop taking French, reminding them of the importance of maintaining their language skills. “I try to be nice about it. I hope they see it as encouragement, not pushiness. But also, let’s be honest, we need students in our classes.”

Advocating for language programs is an ongoing battle, requiring constant conversations with administrators and policymakers. “We have the conversation. And we have it over and over again, hoping someone will hear us.” She also points out the disconnect between universities’ global education rhetoric and actual financial investment. “People say global learning is important, but do they put money behind it? Sometimes. Not always.”

One major supporter of French education in the U.S. is the French government, particularly through Albertine, an initiative of the French Embassy. Albertine offers grants to support innovative pedagogy and experiential learning in higher education. In 2024, Dyer and her colleague Parfait secured a $13,000 grant which is significant in the humanities, where funding is scarce. “These grants range from $2,000 to $20,000. This is big money for us.”

At Drexel, this funding supports The Global French Project, an initiative designed to integrate real-world applications of French into academic coursework. The grant is fueling two new community-based learning courses that align with Drexel’s experiential education model. 

Dyer is revamping her French for the Professions course to include partnerships with the French-American Chamber of Commerce and the Alliance Française. Through these collaborations, students will attend bilingual job fairs, participate in mock interviews, and complete mini-internships with French-speaking businesses. “Students don’t always see where French fits into their career paths. But when they experience it in a professional setting, at a networking event, a job fair, or a mentorship opportunity, they realize its value.”

Meanwhile, Parfait is developing a Francophone film festival in collaboration with Philadelphia’s West African communities. His students will gain hands-on experience in event planning, outreach, and cultural programming. “It’s about getting students out of the classroom and into real-world spaces where French is actually being used.”

While these initiatives increase student engagement, Dyer stresses that they wouldn’t be possible without financial support. “Your partners don’t work for free. Just to be part of the French-American Chamber of Commerce, there are dues to pay, and those costs add up. We also want funding for students… mini-internships, ambassadorships, whatever we call them.”

Another goal of the grant is funding Professional French Certification for students. Dyer has long wanted to introduce the Diplôme de Français Professionnel, an internationally recognized credential from the Paris Chamber of Commerce. “I’ve had this idea for years, but there was no money for it. You can’t ask students to pay another 100 euros per test. That’s money they don’t have.” With grant funding, she hopes to cover exam fees and even establish Drexel as a testing center for the diploma.

Securing funding remains a challenge. While institutions like Albertine and the French-American Chamber of Commerce provide critical support, Dyer emphasizes that language programs must actively advocate for experiential learning and continually prove their value. “These grants don’t just fall into your lap. You have to seek them out. Universities won’t just hand us money. We have to make the case for why French, and languages in general, matter.”

The biggest obstacle, she says, is the perception that language study is non-essential. “Funding decisions prioritize STEM, under the assumption that ‘everyone speaks English, so why invest in foreign languages?’ But in international business, diplomacy, and global affairs, multilingualism is a crucial skill.” Through The Global French Project, Dyer and her colleagues are demonstrating that French is not just a language of literature and culture; it’s a valuable tool in the global economy.

While grants like Albertine’s provide a stepping stone, Dyer stresses the need for sustained institutional investment. “We need universities to see the value in these programs and invest long-term.” She also highlights the importance of collaboration between universities, government institutions, and industry partners. “It can’t just be the universities. We need industry connections, government backing, and global partnerships. That’s how we ensure that French, and language learning in general, continues to thrive.”

Despite the challenges, Dyer remains committed to the fight for language education. “At the end of the day, we do this because we believe in it. And we know it matters.”

The Future of French in an English-Dominated World

In a world where English dominates business, media, and diplomacy, can French still hold its ground? Brenda Dyer believes it can. “I mean, compete? Yeah, sure. Why not? There are a lot of places in the world where French is spoken.” While English is the global lingua franca, France and the Francophone world are actively working to preserve and expand their linguistic and cultural influence.

“The French are very much in a defensive posture,” Dyer explains. “They call the entire English-speaking world les Anglo-Saxons.” This reflects a mindset that, while English is powerful, it is not the undisputed global authority. France and its Francophone partners position themselves as an alternative voice in global affairs, resisting American and British dominance. “They’ve taken it on as a role. There are other ways to think about the world. And they’re not afraid to speak up, to not follow the American-dominated hegemony of political and business power.”

France’s independent stance dates back to Charles de Gaulle, who famously resisted U.S. influence during the Cold War. “They’ve never been afraid. Since Charles de Gaulle, you know, basically flipped the bird to the U.S. and was like, ‘No, you don’t get to decide.’” A key tool in this strategy is the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), a global network of French-speaking nations. “You have these French-speaking nations that are doing bilateral or multilateral projects like economic development, trade… French-speaking countries helping other French-speaking countries, outside of international organizations dominated by English-speaking nations. They’re just like, ‘We’re doing our own thing.’”

Despite its resistance to Anglo-American dominance, France maintains a unique relationship with the U.S., defined by both cooperation and rivalry. “France is the only ally who has always been our ally. We have never gone to war against France. We have against the UK… because that was the Revolution… and again in the War of 1812. But we have never fought France.” This long-standing alliance comes with an independent streak. “France kind of sees its role as sibling rivalry, right? Like, ‘I got your back, but also don’t tread on me.’” This assertiveness extends to global politics, where France frequently asserts its influence, even when it conflicts with American priorities. “France has never been afraid to say to America, ‘Don’t get too big for your britches. We’re also still important.’”

Beyond diplomacy, France is adapting its soft power strategy, shifting toward practical applications of the French language. Recognizing the importance of professional skills, French institutions are emphasizing internships, industry partnerships, and career-oriented language programs. “They’re recognizing that this may speak better to an American market, for lack of a better word. They’re funding language learning programs, but they’re also emphasizing internships and experiential learning.”

As a result, France is investing in:

• Professional certifications that validate French proficiency for global careers

• Industry partnerships that connect students with French-speaking businesses

• Experiential learning that integrates real-world applications of French

This shift ensures that French remains relevant beyond literature and tourism. At the same time, France continues to strengthen ties within the Francophone world, maintaining influence in regions outside of the English-speaking sphere. “They’re maintaining relationships with all the other French-speaking places, outside of the English-speaking world. And I think that’s a very important thing that they do all the time.”

Dyer believes France’s ability to sustain its global influence depends on its adaptability. By expanding diplomatic and economic networks, investing in language education, and demonstrating the professional value of French, the Francophone world is proving that its language is more than just a cultural relic but it is a tool of global engagement. “French isn’t just a language of culture. It’s a language of global influence.”

The Heart of Language Learning

As our conversation wrapped up, Brenda Dyer offered one final piece of advice: choose a language that excites you, not just one that seems practical. “Spanish is useful, sure,” she acknowledges. “If you want to work in the southwestern U.S. or South America, Spanish makes sense. But if you want to work in international organizations like the UN, the Olympic organizing committee, all of them. French is still very, very important.” While many see Spanish as the most practical second language for Americans, Dyer stresses that French remains essential in global diplomacy, business, and international affairs. “If you want to go to Europe, French is more useful than Spanish. If you want to go to Africa, French is more useful than Spanish. It depends on what you want to do with your life.”

Dyer also noted that language learning is deeply personal. “You’ll be a more effective language learner if you choose a language you love. Not just as a language, but for the cultures where it’s spoken.” Her own passion lies with French and German. “I’ve never learned Spanish because I never wanted to. I’m not opposed to it, but it’s never spoken to my heart the way French and German have.” She emphasizes that mastering a language takes dedication, and external pressures aren’t enough to sustain long-term commitment. “Learn the language you want to learn, for the things you want to do. Don’t just do it because people say you should.” Dyer believes language learning is about more than career prospects, but rather, it’s about connection, culture, and perspective. “Practicality alone won’t get you through. Language learning is hard work. You need intrinsic motivation.” And as for Spanish? She doesn’t rule it out. “Maybe one day I’ll want to retire to Costa Rica, who knows? And if I do, I’ll learn Spanish. But it doesn’t speak to my heart the way French does.”

In the end, choosing a language is about more than utility. It’s about finding a connection that challenges and excites you. And for those drawn to French? The language of diplomacy, international relations, and cultural richness still holds a powerful place in the world… for those willing to take the leap.