Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “graduate degree” in French. Whether you’re looking to communicate in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore various ways to express this term, along with some helpful tips, examples, and even a glimpse into regional variations. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Graduate Degree” in French
When it comes to formal settings, here are a few options for expressing “graduate degree” in French:
1. Diplôme de Master
The most common and widely understood term for “graduate degree” in French is “diplôme de master.” This is the equivalent of a Master’s degree in English. It is used to refer to an advanced degree obtained after completing a Bachelor’s program.
Example: J’ai obtenu mon diplôme de master en économie l’année dernière. (I obtained my graduate degree in economics last year.)
2. Maîtrise
In some French-speaking regions, particularly in Canada, the term “maîtrise” is commonly used to refer to a graduate degree. It is essentially equivalent to a Master’s degree and is used interchangeably with “diplôme de master.”
Example: Il a terminé sa maîtrise en ingénierie à l’Université de Montréal. (He completed his graduate degree in engineering at the University of Montreal.)
3. Diplôme d’Études Approfondies (DEA)
Prior to the Bologna Process, which harmonized European higher education, the term “Diplôme d’Études Approfondies” (DEA) was commonly used in France to denote a postgraduate degree. However, it has been largely replaced by the “diplôme de master” or simply “Master.”
Example: Avant la réforme, il a obtenu son DEA en histoire médiévale. (Before the reform, he obtained his graduate degree in medieval history.)
Informal Ways to Say “Graduate Degree” in French
If you’re in an informal setting or having a casual conversation, you can choose from the following alternatives:
1. Bac +5
An informal way to refer to a graduate degree in French is by using the term “bac +5,” which literally means “baccalauréat plus five.” In the French education system, “bac +5” indicates completing five years of higher education after obtaining the baccalauréat (high school diploma).
Example: Elle a décroché son bac +5 en droit international. (She obtained her graduate degree in international law.)
2. Bac +X
Similar to “bac +5,” “bac +X” is a flexible term that denotes a variable number of years after the baccalauréat. The “X” stands for the number of years completed, indicating a higher level of education beyond high school.
Example: Il souhaite poursuivre ses études et obtenir un bac +8 en sciences politiques. (He wants to continue his studies and obtain an eight-year graduate degree in political science.)
Regional Variations
While the above terms are generally understood throughout the French-speaking world, it’s worth noting that regional variations exist, particularly in Canada, Belgium, and Switzerland. These variations can include different terminology or slightly varying usage. Here’s a glimpse at some regional differences:
Canada
In Canada, the term “diplôme de maîtrise” is commonly used alongside “diplôme de master.” Additionally, some universities use the term “grade de maîtrise.”
Belgium and Switzerland
In Belgium and Switzerland, you may come across terms like “grade de master” or “titre de master” to refer to a graduate degree.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our guide on how to say “graduate degree” in French. Now you’re equipped with several formal and informal ways to express this term, along with regional variations to watch out for. Remember to use the appropriate phrase based on the setting and your target audience. With these linguistic tools, you’ll be able to confidently navigate conversations around academic achievements in French-speaking contexts. Bonne chance!
