Francophone, Italian, and Germanic Studies

The Francophone, Italian, & Germanic Studies (FIGS) department is a vibrant intellectual community with a shared commitment to the study of culture through language, literature, and visual media.  We offer language courses in Dutch, French, German, Italian, Swedish, and Yiddish as well as advanced seminars on literature and culture in a global context.  Please explore the websites below to learn more about the innovative, interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs in each of our three Sections (Francophone Studies; Italian; and Germanic Studies).

Upcoming Events

Mar
20

Table Francophone

On March 20, 2024 at 12:00 pm

Queer Movie Night

On March 20, 2024 at 7:00 pm
Mar
21
Mar
26

Table Francophone

On March 26, 2024 at 9:00 am

Graduate Studies

Welcome to the Graduate Group in Francophone, Italian and Germanic Studies, which houses distinct graduate programs in these three areas and brings together a shared, interdisciplinary commitment to literary and cultural studies. Applications for the 2024 PhD admission cycle are now open, and due by January 1st, 2024. Competence in more than one FIGS language is by no means required, but applicants interested in dual-track studies are also encouraged to apply. Joint doctorate with other departments and programs (including, for example, Comparative Literature and Music) are also possible. Our graduate students are also encouraged to pursue certificates in complementary disciplines, such as Digital Humanities, Africana Studies, and Human Rights, or via the Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning and Innovation. All admitted students are awarded full financial support through the School of Arts & Sciences, including summer funding. Interested applicants are encouraged to be in contact with Eva Del Soldato, Graduate Chair, at evadel@sas.upenn.edu and to reach out to any members of our Graduate Group they may be interested in working with.