Language assistants from France

Every year, the Department welcomes two language assistants from France who contribute to our language courses and the Department’s cultural life. This international collaboration enriches the teaching experience of the assistants, the language immersion of the students, and the diversity of professional interactions of the faculty and staff.

Exchange with Université Paris Nanterre

The Department has a teaching agreement for outgoing students with the Université Paris Nanterre. Every year, one or possibly two of our recent MA graduates have the opportunity to work as English language and cultural assistants at this French university. The competitive selection process at McMaster generally takes place in January or February. As part of the interview, candidates present their vision of Canada for a simulated foreign audience, an overview of their previous international experience and expectations for the contract period, as well as a mock language lesson for non-native speakers of English.

For further information on the agreement with Paris Nanterre, see the University’s website.

Third Year abroad

The Department offers the possibility of spending the third year of the PhD program abroad. Students may audit classes or pursue research at other universities, participate in field work or undertake an internship program in a francophone region or country.

Cotutelle

The Department offers the possibility of gaining exposure to other research environments through the cotutelle program. A cotutelle is a single PhD awarded by two post-secondary institutions, typically from different countries. Thus, the student’s thesis is co-supervised by complementary specialists from the respective universities. A cotutelle degree creates and promotes research collaboration in a way that allows students access to a broader range of research experience than would otherwise be available.

Partner university arrangements may vary and students must investigate what is required to fulfill that institution’s cotutelle requirements. For information on how to apply please view the Cotutelle Policy (PDF).