Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture (French and Francophone Studies) (PhD)

The Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture Department offers the MA and PhD in three tracks: Comparative Media and Culture; Comparative Literature; and National Literatures and Cultures (French and Francophone Studies or Spanish and Latin American Studies).

Track III: National Literatures and Cultures

French and Francophone Studies

The majority of students pursue the doctorate in Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture (French and Francophone Studies) in preparation for a career of teaching and research at the college or university level in the field of French and Francophone literature and cultural studies. Students preparing for these careers must obtain a broad knowledge of major French and Francophone literary texts and traditions from the Middle Ages to the present, which is achieved through a combination of course work and exams. They should also develop the intellectual depth that allows them to produce an original dissertation in a timely manner.

Course Requirements

In addition to the MA course requirements listed under Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture (French and Francophone Studies) (MA), at least five additional 4-unit courses are required distributed as follows: COLT 602, CSLC 601 or CSLC 603 ; four additional courses in French or, with permission, in a related field. Students will also complete the professional development sequence, CSLC 600  and CSLC 700 , which are 2-unit courses and offered only as credit/no credit. Only one enrollment of up to 4 units of directed research (590) or research (790) will count toward the 60-unit minimum required to complete the degree.  

Language Requirement

The language requirement may be fulfilled either by successfully completing a course at the 400-level or above taught in a language other than French or English or by passing a reading examination in the relevant language. Students confer with the graduate adviser to decide which option is most appropriate. This requirement must be fulfilled at least 60 days before the qualifying examination.

Qualifying Examination

To be admitted to candidacy for the PhD, students must pass this examination after all course work has been completed.

Dissertation Defense

An oral defense of the dissertation must be satisfactorily completed before the dissertation can be filed with the Graduate School.

Awarding of Degree

The degree of PhD in Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture (French and Francophone Studies) is conferred when all of the degree requirements have been completed satisfactorily.