Language Exams

All students, including those transferring from other universities, are required to demonstrate competence in reading and translating at least two languages. Normally these languages should be German for the M.A., and for the M.Phil., one other language appropriate to your proposed area of dissertation research. Students working primarily in areas where additional languages are needed may be required to pass a third language examination. A native language other than French or German may not be used to satisfy the language requirement unless the student satisfies the Musicology Committee of the integral role that language will play in the proposed dissertation research.

Departmental language examinations in the major European languages (German, French, Italian, Spanish, Latin) are administered during the Registration periods of both fall and spring semesters, and again in early May. A sign-up is posted outside the Department office, 621 Dodge Hall. The examinations consist of passages of moderate length and difficulty -- approximately 300-400 words of the difficulty one would encounter in ordinary use of these languages for research purposes -- to be translated into idiomatic English. The use of a dictionary is permitted, but not a book of grammar. The quality and accuracy of the translation is more important than completion of the passage. You are advised to prepare by refreshing your knowledge of the basic structure of the language, and by practicing on passages from such sources as periodical articles, encyclopedia entries, treatises, biographies, and memoirs. Each exam is one hour long.

For further information, consult Professor Giuseppe Gerbino who will be coordinating the language exams for this year.