We are a doctoral program in which the MA and the PhD are combined. We have recently submitted a request to separate the two (in terms of credit allocation). The request is under review. Currently, we have students admitted at the MA level and students entering at the PhD level. The former have to take more credits and have 6 years to complete their degree. The latter take less credits and have 4 years to complete their degree. Students doing an MA who fail their exam will get their MA as a terminal degree, Those who success are invited to pursue onto the PhD. We do not make a distinction between our MA and PhD students, as both cohorts may take the same seminars, participate in the same departments’ events, workshops, apply for the same funding, etc. The major differences are the number of required credits they take and the length of their studies, and the exams they take.
As a doctoral program where each student undertakes substantial independent research, we define “student learning” very differently than the university does at the undergraduate level.
Our handbook states for the MA: “The M.A. Program in French provides comprehensive training in French and Francophone studies while preparing specialized research at the Ph.D. level. Through coursework, students will increase their expertise in textual analysis and critical methods, gain greater knowledge of the historical and social context that shapes literature, and begin working with faculty advisors. Through departmental lectures and reading groups, students will hone their research skills and knowledge of current developments in the field of French studies. Through departmental workshops and the proseminar, they will learn the basics of research methodology, ethics, and professional development (publications and the job market).”