The 9th Art: History & Methods of the French Graphic Novel

The art of bande dessinée, also known as The 9th Art, is deeply ingrained in the French cultural landscape. Join artist and professor, Christopher Sperandio, and immerse yourself in the history and methods of the French graphic novel.

Request Information

Apply Now

Program Details:

• Program Dates: May 13 - 31, 2024
• Program Location: Rice Global Paris Center | Paris, France
• Who Can Apply? Any Rice Undergraduate Student (no prerequisites)
• Program Total Cost: $1,200 per credit hour ($3,600 Tuition for 3 credit hours) + travel to Paris ($1000-$2500) and living expenses for 3 weeks ($1000-$1500).
• What's Covered: The program will provide housing for all three weeks, local travel, course-set excursions/tickets, three group meals, and travel insurance.
• What's Not Covered: Airfare to Paris, passport fees (if applicable), any visa fees (if applicable), ride to and from the airport, any non-course planned travel/excursions/tickets, International phone plans and/or SIM cards, incidentals, and most meals.
• Financial Aid: Students looking for financial aid to help with expenses should contact the Financial Aid Office to see if and how much financial aid they qualify for. Summer tuition qualifies for some assistance, and in some cases, grants are available
• Tuition Assistance: Students can also apply to receive further tuition assistance and some international travel assistance from Rice Global Paris. Application for assistance is included in the course application.

Course Details:

• Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
• Course Instructor: Christopher Sperandio
• Course Description: The art of bande dessinée or Franco-Belgian comics, also known as the 9th Art or BD, is deeply ingrained in the French cultural landscape. France has indeed established itself as one of the pillars of the comic book industry for almost a century in terms of both consumption and production. This course will combine critical analysis of essential French graphic novels, films based on French language comics, the basics of comics making, and excursions to visit important comic sites. This course is in English
• Who is this class for? Practically speaking, any student who is called upon to combine words and pictures will benefit from studying the works of comic artists. In science and engineering, most research is expressed as a poster, even if the students receive little instruction in using texts and images together. Any student asked to tell a story will benefit from studying the work of master storytellers. In addition to the STEM folks, learning about comics will help artists, filmmakers, actors, directors, and writers. No prerequisite or previous experience is required. Just add enthusiasm, a willingness to work, and a desire to see every drawing in Paris!
• Course Zoom Information Session: Click here to view the Zoom information session recording.

For questions, visit our FAQ page or email pariscenter@rice.edu. The application deadline is January 26, 2024.