G8.4 Language Requirements

A knowledge of several languages is essential for doctoral research. Therefore, students are urged to fulfill the language requirements as early as possible in their doctoral studies. In any case, they must be fulfilled prior to the preliminary examination. The candidate must demonstrate advanced proficiency in a minimum of one language besides Spanish and Portuguese, to be determined in consultation with the advisor. The most common languages are French, Italian, Latin, German and Arabic, depending on the candidate’s major and minor. Advanced proficiency is defined as six college semesters with a grade of B or better. A grade of Advanced Pass on the UW Continuing Studies Language Reading Knowledge Examinations in French, German or Italian will be accepted as an alternative. The exam is one hour long and currently costs

$65. The exam is taken at 21 N. Park Street. Students can register by phone (608-262-2451) or online at:

https://continuingstudies.wisc.edu/classes/language-reading-exam/

The exam is given three times per year. Please see the web site for more information.

Advisors may petition the Departmental Committee or the Executive Committee, as appropriate, for exceptions to the above policies.