The department is characterised by its special focus on non-European francophone regions (Africa, America, the Caribbean and Indian Ocean). The lectures are usually in French (sometimes also in English and German). Small groups ensure optimum learning success. A semester abroad is possible; Internships in francophone countries possible; practical elements of cultural management can be selected as a partial offer of seminars

The Études Francophones degree course is geared primarily, but not exclusively, towards students from the francophone world as most classes are taught in French, resulting in an international mixture of students (Indonesia, Mexico, Colombia, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Iran, Nigeria, etc.). Visiting researchers in projects and in teaching lead to an early introduction to international networks and cooperations.

University library with a large collection of literature on topics of relevance to Africa; Iwalewahaus art centre and museum – African art, music; Collection of African films

Romance literary studies/comparative studies deals mainly with non-European literatures and cultures, always viewed in dialogue with other narrative forms of expression (film, television, comics, music and dance). The focus of Romance and General Linguistics is on French which is explored in its many regional, social and situational links. Other focal areas include text linguistics, dialogue analysis and linguistic pragmatics. Close dovetailing with research projects in the African area.

The department also has a high percentage of international students, especially from the francophone regions (e.g. from the francophone regions of Africa), but also from Asia (e.g. Indonesia) and Latin America (e.g. Mexico). Small groups ensure intensive interaction as well as guidance. Interconnected research projects – interdisciplinary as well; Deepening of region-specific knowledge through module selection in relevant subjects (Arabic studies, Islamic studies, ethnology, sociology, etc., with a focus on Africa)