M.A. Degree Program in French and Francophone Studies
The purpose of the M.A. program in French is to improve students' understanding of French language, literature, and culture beyond the levels of competency
expected of undergraduate majors. To realize these goals, further study of the French and Francophone language and literature is necessary,
complemented by an introduction to civilization and linguistics.
M.A. Program in French and Women's Studies
The dual M.A. program in French and Women's Studies
allows students to enrich their study of the French and Francophone language, literature, and culture with the addition of feminist theories and research methods. The Women's Studies major focuses on feminist analyses of women's lives; of women's social, cultural, and scientific contributions; and on the structure of sex/gender systems.
M.A.
Degree Program in French Linguistics
The objectives of the M.A. program in French Linguistics are
two-fold: first, to improve students' understanding of French
language, literature, and culture beyond the levels of competency
expected of undergraduate majors; and second, to provide an
introduction to theoretical issues in linguistics and applied
linguistics through the study of contemporary research in
these areas. The core of the program in French Linguistics
may serve as the foundation for continued study at the Ph.D.
level.
Ph.D. Program in French and Francophone Studies
The Department of French and Francophone Studies offers a Ph.D. degree with specializations in civilization, literature, and applied linguistics,
as well as a dual degree in French and Women's Studies. Graduate students accepted into the Department's Ph.D. program are expected to acquire
a broad factual and theoretical background in French Studies, advanced proficiency in oral and writing skills, and a thorough grasp of
research and teaching methodologies. Students select one specialization and may add other subspecialties:
Specialization in Civilization
The Specialization in Civilization is designed for students who seek an academic or non-academic career in which they combine advanced training in culture,
language, and literature with interdisciplinary study in a related field, such as anthropology, art, architecture, history, economics, philosophy,
political science, or sociology.
Specialization in Literature
The Specialization in Literature offers numerous courses in the different periods and genres of metropolitan and non-metropolitan literature.
Candidates also choose electives in French and related subjects to ensure breadth of training as well as depth.
Specialization in Linguistics
The Specialization in Linguistics emphasizes the foundational theory of linguistics and its relation to the acquisition and
use of French. The core of the program includes not only the traditional subfields of linguistics (phonology, morphology, syntax,
and semantics), but also disciplines that explore the interrelations between those rule systems and the language acquisition process,
effective language teaching, and inquiries into the role of language in society.
Ph.D. Program in French and Women's Studies
In conjunction with the Department of Women's Studies, the Department of French and Francophone Studies offers a dual Ph.D. degree with specializations in civilization or literature. Graduate students accepted into the dual Ph.D. program are expected to acquire a broad factual and theoretical background in French Studies, advanced proficiency in oral and writing skills, and a thorough grasp of research and teaching methodologies while enhancing their work through the study of feminist theory and research methods.
