French Studies - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

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Hagey Hall Hub located on Waterloo's main campus

Join an intensive research unit and open doors to careers that meet the needs of the current job market with the PhD in French Studies program.

The program is rich in both theory and practice – you’ll be involved in cutting-edge research projects and experiential education opportunities in your choice of three fields of research: cultural studies in a francophone context, early modern French literary studies and theory, or electronic archiving, editing and publishing in a francophone context. 

You’ll benefit from international conferences that are regularly organized by the department and a lecture series that provides you with the opportunity to meet top scholars from around the world.  

You’ll be prepared to pursue a career in academia, teaching, or the public or private sectors with roles like translator/interpreter, intercultural consultant, and language instructor.

Research areas and degree fields

  • Cultural Studies in a Francophone Context
  • Early Modern French Literary Studies and Theory
  • Electronic Archiving, Editing and Publishing in a Francophone Context

Program overview

Department/School: French Studies
Faculty: Faculty of Arts
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Doctoral, Research
Length of program: 48 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application deadlines

  • February 1 (for admission in September)
  • July 1 (for admission in January of the following year)

Key contacts

Nathan Pirie at nampirie@uwaterloo.ca
519-888-4567, ext. 42249

Admission limitations

Due to funding restrictions, the Faculty of Arts is currently limiting the number of international students we can admit. Please contact the department's Associate Chair, Graduate Studies prior to applying to discuss your interest in this program.

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • Students must have a Master of Arts (MA) degree in French Studies (or in a closely related field) and must have achieved an overall average of at least 80% in their MA program.
  • Students are required to submit a plan of study.

Degree requirements

Application materials

  • Writing Sample (written in French)
  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcripts
  • References
    • Three references are required; at least two academic
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees