Job Description
Johns Hopkins University offers a fully funded Ph.D. program in French through its Department of Modern Languages and Literatures. This program is designed for students interested in advanced study and research in French literature, culture, and critical theory.
Program Overview
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Degree: Ph.D. in French
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Institution: Johns Hopkins University – Krieger School of Arts and Sciences
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Department: Modern Languages and Literatures
The program emphasizes research, argumentation, and writing, making it particularly attractive to independent-minded students. Instead of comprehensive exams, students compile a portfolio of twelve or more research papers during the first two years. Admission to Ph.D. candidacy is based on this portfolio and the preparation and defense of a dissertation prospectus. This structure allows students to deeply explore disciplinary and interdisciplinary questions within French studies, utilizing various critical tools such as literary history, poetics, discourse analysis, cultural and political theory, and genetic criticism. Additionally, students may pursue a Graduate Certificate in Film and Media in conjunction with the department’s Media Literacy subsection and the Center for Advanced Media Studies.
Funding Package
All admitted Ph.D. students receive full financial support for up to five years, contingent upon satisfactory academic progress. The funding package includes:
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Tuition and Fees: Full coverage of tuition and associated fees.
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Stipend: An annual stipend to cover living expenses. As of July 2024, the minimum stipend for graduate students at Johns Hopkins University is $47,000 per year.
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Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
Students are also encouraged to apply for external fellowships and grants to supplement their funding. Opportunities for additional financial support include the Dean’s Teaching Fellowship, which allows advanced students to design and teach their own undergraduate courses.
International Research Opportunities
The program strongly encourages and supports international research experiences. Notable opportunities include:
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Exchange Program with École Normale Supérieure (ENS), Paris: Students can study in Paris and participate in research programs at ENS, EHESS, and other universities.
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Doctoral Internships: Opportunities with francophone universities.
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Residences for Early Modern Studies: Programs at Oxford University and the University of Warwick.
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Chateaubriand Fellowship: A scholarship offered by the Embassy of France to support research in France.
These international experiences are designed to enhance dissertation research and provide broader academic exposure.
Admission Requirements
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Academic Background: A strong academic record demonstrating capability for advanced study in French literature and related fields.
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Application Materials:
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Online application through the Johns Hopkins Graduate Admissions portal.
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Statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals.
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Three letters of recommendation.
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Writing sample demonstrating scholarly research.
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Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
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Resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
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TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers.
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Applicants are encouraged to review the specific admission requirements on the program’s website or contact the department directly for the most current information.
