The doctoral program in French at Berkeley reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship.
Our program not only provides rigorous training in French and Francophone literature and culture but also fosters innovative methodologies and cross-disciplinary dialogue. With faculty expertise spanning diverse historical and methodological approaches, students benefit from a vibrant intellectual community supported by campus-wide centers, working groups, and collaborative initiatives. The department’s welcoming and non-hierarchical environment encourages open and passionate inquiry, making it an ideal place for advanced study.
The Ph.D. program in French is designed to develop original research, critical writing, and teaching expertise at the university level. It balances flexibility with comprehensive training, allowing students to cultivate specialized interests while gaining broad competency across the discipline. New students receive strong mentorship through assigned faculty advisors and peer support, ensuring a smooth transition into academic and professional life. Pedagogical training is a key focus, with extensive resources for teaching development, including opportunities to design and lead courses. We invite prospective students to explore our program and discover the dynamic opportunities available at Berkeley.