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Graduate Program

The Department of French and Italian offers a variety of graduate degree paths that branch across disciplines. These include a MA in Italian, a PhD in French, a PhD in French with MA en route, or an innovative, interdepartmental PhD in Film and Media Studies with a Concentration in French. The rich research networks within the department feature work in film and media, gender and sexuality, national and transnational identities, and environmental studies. Students are not required to take the GRE as part of the application process.

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FRIT Research Networks

The intellectual and curricular work of our department emerges from four research networks that reflect our interdisciplinarity and engagement with the most pressing questions of our time: Film and Media; Gender and Sexuality; Nation/Transnation; and Environment.

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French Program

The comprehensive graduate programs in French prepare students for research and teaching in an increasingly globalized and interdisciplinary profession.

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Italian Program

Our MA in Italian offers a comprehensive and rigorous introduction to the field and preparation for further study in Italian Literature, Culture, Theater, Film, and Linguistics.

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Admissions

Applicants for admission to the graduate program are evaluated on the basis of previous academic performance, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a writing sample, and an interview.

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Apply

Applications for Graduate study at the University of Pittsburgh must now be submitted online. Please consult the guidelines regarding specific items required by the French and Italian programs.

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Graduate Program FAQ

Learn about our programs further by exploring the frequently asked questions.

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FRIT Alumni Careers

Graduates of the French PhD program at Pitt are researching, teaching, publishing, and working at the highest levels of university administration in academic institutions throughout the US and abroad.

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Graduate Program Resources

Departmental resources to provide guidance with any inquiries regarding reading lists, financial assistance, funding opportunities, and more.

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French and Italian Graduate Reading Exams

For graduate students wishing to fulfill their grad language requirement in French or Italian.