Program Overview
The French graduate program offers a comprehensive curriculum with courses and seminars covering various periods and genres. Students develop expertise in French literature and language pedagogy, preparing them for careers in academia, research, and other fields. The program emphasizes language proficiency and provides opportunities for international study and cultural immersion. Graduates have a strong job placement record due to their specialized knowledge and skills.
Program Outline
Outline:
- The French graduate program offers a wide array of courses and seminars each semester.
- Courses typically meet two or three times a week and are quite broad in focus, generally exploring well-defined periods or genres.
- Seminars are held once a week for two hours and take up narrower topics in greater depth.
- The offerings and the requirements of the M.A. and Ph.D. programs are designed to give students not only the tools necessary for specialization, but also an excellent knowledge of these extremely rich literary traditions.
- Students for the M.A. degree can fulfill course requirements in any given two-year period, and candidates for the Ph.D. can complete course requirements for the Ph.D. within two years of obtaining their M.A.
- Students must take at least one seminar in the department in each of the three defined areas:
- Middle Ages - 16th - 17th
- 18th - 19th
- 20th - 21st - Francophone and Global French Studies
Assessment:
- M.A. Examination:
- Written Examination: The M.A. exam is usually taken by the end of the fourth semester of study.
- Format: The written part of the M.A. exam lasts a total of 7 hours.
- Oral Examination: A student who fails the written part of the M.A. exam will not take the oral part.
- M.A. thesis and thesis defense:
- A Master’s thesis in French (40-60 pages, including notes and bibliography):
- Thesis defense: Students selecting the M.A. thesis option will take a 60-minute oral exam.
Teaching:
- Strong emphasis is placed on the practice of the language.
- French is the usual language of instruction in graduate courses and seminars.
- The department offers possibilities for international stay through exchange programs and further promotes the use of French through lectures, films, theater, and events at the French House.
Careers:
- The French Ph.D. program has a fine job placement record.
- Its students' solid foundation in the French and Francophone literary tradition is increasingly rare among North American literature programs, as is the extensive training students receive in language pedagogy.
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Language Proficiency Requirements:
Non-native English speakers must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements (https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/#english-proficiency).
