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

Sep
28

FIGS Monthly Queer Movie Night

On September 28, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Oct
05

Frühstück am Donnerstagmorgen

On October 5, 2023 at 9:30 am

First Thursday

On October 5, 2023 at 5:00 pm
Oct
16

CTL Workshop: Writing a Diversity Statement

On October 16, 2023 at 4:30 pm

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. Please see below for details on each of these programs. Competence in more than one of these languages is by no means required, but applicants interested in dual-track studies are also encouraged to apply. 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. Read more >