Our Graduate Programs
Our department offers an M.A. program in Modern Languages in French and an M.A. program in Modern Languages in German that include a new component focused on language pedagogy and teaching technologies, which complements the central focus of these programs that falls on the literature and culture of the French- and German-speaking worlds, respectively. Our M.A. program in Spanish, similarly, now offers student the option of two different tracks: one track maintains its traditional emphasis on the literature and culture of the Spanish-speaking world; the other track combines the study of literature and culture with more extensive work in language pedagogy and teaching technologies.
All three of our M.A. programs have a strong records of placing their graduates in quality Ph.D. programs across the country, and in teaching positions in community colleges and universities.
Graduate Language Programs
M.A & Ph.D. in Comparative Literature and Culture Studies
Many faculty in the Department of World Languages are also active participants in our graduate programs in Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies. The Ph.D. program now offers students a choice of five different concentrations: Comparative Literature, Hispanic Studies, Modern Languages, Cultural Studies, or Literary Translation. For more information on these programs, please visit Comparative Literature & Cultural Studies, or the Graduate Catalog.
Teaching Assistantships
The Department of World Languages at the University of Arkansas offers graduate work
leading to the M.A. degrees in French, German, Spanish and Comparative Literature,
as well as supporting the M.F.A in Translation and the Ph.D. in Comparative Literature. An experienced and versatile faculty provide knowledgeable instruction and personal
attention in small class settings, notably in advanced language skills, philology,
pedagogy, in the literature and cultures of the language areas mentioned above. Teaching
certification is also available.
Teaching Assistantships are available for the academic year, that is, from late August
to early May. The yearly stipend is currently $10,500. In addition, Teaching Assistants
receive a grant from the University covering tuition expenses. Graduate Assistants teach two sections of elementary or intermediate language each
semester, while enrolled in one of the M.A. programs in the World Languages department or
one of the graduate programs in Comparative Literature or Translation. Normally, Teaching Assistants are expected to enroll in three graduate courses (nine credit
hours) each semester in their chosen field of study. Candidates for the M.A. degrees in French, German,
and Spanish are given preference in the selection of Assistants, though candidates
for the other advanced degrees are strongly encouraged to apply.
In general, applications for assistantships should be submitted by February 1st. While applications will be accepted as long as vacancies exist, we strongly urge early application. Summer teaching assistantships are also often available - check with the appropriate graduate advisor. On-campus student housing and child day care are also options for interested graduate students.
International applicants seeking a teaching assistantship must demonstrate satisfactory
English proficiency. Results of the TOEFL test must be received before admittance
application to Graduate School can be considered. Note also that a TSE score of 50
is required in order to be granted a teaching assistantship.
Application Procedure
First and foremost, you need to apply through the Graduate School website in order to get enrolled in one of our Master of Arts language programs.
If you're interested in applying for a Teaching Assistantship, please use our application form here and the appropriate graduate advisor will contact you.