PhD in Literary and Cultural Studies

The PhD in Literary and Cultural Studies grows out of interdisciplinary developments in the humanities in recent decades that seek to emphasize the importance of discourse in structuring human experience. The concentration in Literary and Cultural Studies assumes a broadened definition of texts that places literature in its historical and cultural contexts and in conversation with literary and cultural theory. To that end, PhD-level courses frequently include readings in theory and criticism, historical studies, and interdisciplinary discourses alongside literary texts.

Students developing comprehensive exam lists and dissertations are also encouraged to incorporate relevant critical, theoretical, and historical materials into their research, in consultation with their committee and other relevant faculty.

Learn more about the Ph.D Comprehensive Exams and the Ph.D Dissertation Prospectus for the Literary and Cultural Studies concentration. 

You can also download our Ph.D Advising Worksheet here.