PhD in French and Francophone Studies in Columbus United States | Ohio State University

The Department provides a PhD program in French and Francophone Studies designed to help students reach advanced scholarly expertise while fostering their ability to produce original contributions to the discipline. The program's objectives include: 1) equipping students with critical analysis techniques and research methodologies needed to develop, execute, and publish groundbreaking work in their specialized areas, 2) preparing students for effective college-level teaching through hands-on training, mentorship, and diverse classroom experiences, and 3) cultivating future academic leaders through professional development seminars, administrative exposure, and service opportunities within institutional and scholarly communities. Through our comprehensive curriculum and multifaceted engagement in research, instruction, and professional service, graduates emerge as strong candidates for academic positions and accomplished scholars.

The PhD journey follows a structured progression from coursework to candidacy to dissertation completion. For students beginning without an approved MA in French/Francophone Studies, the program typically spans five years. After approximately 2.5 years of coursework, students undertake candidacy exams during their third spring semester. Following successful examination completion, candidates propose and defend their dissertation topics early in their fourth year before commencing dissertation writing. Students entering with an approved MA typically complete the program in four years, with 1.5 years of coursework before following the same subsequent stages. Program participants demonstrating strong progress but requiring additional time may apply for competitive extended funding, though this supplemental support isn't automatically granted.