eligibility criteria for phd in english literature

Admissions - Ph.D. in Literature

The Graduate Admissions Application is closed until early Fall https://grad.ucdavis.edu/apply

The deadline to apply to our program is January 5, 2025

The Graduate Studies  Application Components  page covers many admissions questions, but feel free to contact our program's staff if you need more information. Regarding your application status, please check online or contact us.

Application Requirements In preparing your materials, please note the department implements holistic review of applications, which considers every element of the application in an effort to reach a contextualized assessment of students' accomplishments an potential.

• Writing sample (see below for details)
• Statement of Purpose
• Personal History & Diversity Statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable
• Copies of transcripts
• Application Fee 2023-2024 cycle: $135 for U.S. and $155 for international applicants
• Admissions Requirements and Eligibility   as set by UC Davis Graduate Studies  

Writing Sample

• One-two research or term papers written for English courses; the total should not exceed 30 pages excluding images and bibliography.
• If your research or term paper(s) are not recent (e.g., written in the past 2-3 years or so), it is advisable that you revise the papers to include more current research/sources on your topic.
• Be sure that you closely proofread any research or term paper(s) you submit in order to present your best work possible.

We are actively recruiting graduate students with a variety of personal experiences, values, and worldviews that arise from differences of culture and circumstance.

There is no independent application for admission to the M.A. program, emphasis in Literature; this degree can only be earned by those admitted to the Ph.D. program, en route to their Ph.D.

International applicants ,  please review the  following application information .

Graduate Studies only offers application  fee waivers  to applicants who have participated in   specific graduate preparation programs .   Applicants who are affiliated with these programs must indicate their participation AND must provide the name and contact information for their program coordinator in the relevant section of the online application system to receive a fee waiver.

Please highlight your academic preparation and motivation; interests, specializations, and career goals; and fit for pursuing graduate study at UC Davis.

Preparation and Motivation:  may include your academic and research experiences that prepare you for this graduate program (for example coursework, employment, exhibitions, fieldwork, foreign language proficiency, independent study, internships, laboratory activities, presentations, publications, studio projects, teaching, and travel or study abroad) and motivation or passion for graduate study.

Interests, Specializations, and Career Goals:  may include your research interests, disciplinary sub-fields, areas of specialization, and professional objectives.

Fit:  may include how your preparation, experiences, and interests match the specific resources and characteristics of your graduate program at UC Davis. Please identify specific faculty within your desired graduate program with whom you would like to work, how their interests match your own, and how you would benefit from engaging with their research.

• Personal History and Diversity Statement

The University of California Davis, a public institution, is committed to supporting the diversity of the graduate student body and promoting equal opportunity in higher education. This commitment furthers the educational mission to serve the increasingly diverse population and educational needs of California and the nation. Both the Vice Provost of Graduate Education/Dean of Graduate Studies and the University of California affirm that diversity is critical to promoting lively intellectual exchange and the variety of ideas and perspectives essential to advancing higher education and research. Our graduate students contribute to the global pool of future scholars and academic leaders, thus high value is placed on achieving a diverse graduate student body to support the University of California’s academic excellence. We invite you to include in this statement how you may contribute to the diversification of graduate education and the UC Davis community.

The purpose of this essay is to get to know you as an individual and a potential graduate student. Please describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. You may include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, community service, outreach activities, residency and citizenship, first-generation college status, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual, or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field; or how you might serve educationally underrepresented and under-served segments of society with your graduate education.

Three Letters of Recommendation

• From professors or other persons situated to speak about your potential for graduate study. In general, letters from professors or instructors involved in post-secondary academic studies who can speak to your research and/or the potential for your research profile, as well as any other aspect of your academic profile (e.g., any experience teaching, tutoring, or mentoring others) are preferred. These persons may also address your extra-curricular and personal histories as applicable.

Transcripts

• Copies are allowed. Once admitted, Graduate Studies requires official transcripts.
• UC Davis requires academic records from each college-level institution you have attended - instructions can be found  here .

Prospective students may also submit a  Fellowship Application  after applying to the program.

Past Admissions Data During the 2023-24 cycle 135 applications were submitted and 13 of them received an admission offer. Six of them declined and one decided to defer. For our Fall 2023 cohort, out of the 137 applications, the program admitted 19 and 6 of them matriculated.

• Funding Your Ph.D.

All students admitted to the Ph.D. program are provided guaranteed funding for 5 years in the form of Teaching Assistant and Associate Instructor positions. These appointments provide a  tuition waiver  which covers the Resident Regular Tuition and Health Insurance and pays a  monthly salary . A limited amount of Graduate Student Researcher positions are available each year where students assist faculty with various projects.

Departmental funds are also available, such as the Miller Travel Fund, for students to attend conferences, interviews and conduct research. Additional progress-based and summer language and travel fellowship stipends are awarded with funding allocated to us by Graduate Studies.

The  UC Davis Humanities Institute  offers various fellowships students can apply for to fund their projects. Admitted students are also considered for University-wide fellowships.

  Questions? Contact Us

PhD Program in English Language and Literature

The department enrolls an average of ten PhD students each year. Our small size allows us to offer a generous financial support package. We also offer a large and diverse graduate faculty with competence in a wide range of literary, theoretical and cultural fields. Each student chooses a special committee that works closely along side the student to design a course of study within the very broad framework established by the department. The program is extremely flexible in regard to course selection, the design of examinations and the election of minor subjects of concentration outside the department. English PhD students pursuing interdisciplinary research may include on their special committees faculty members from related fields such as comparative literature, medieval studies, Romance studies, German studies, history, classics, women’s studies, linguistics, theatre and performing arts, government, philosophy, and film and video studies.

The PhD candidate is normally expected to complete six or seven one-semester courses for credit in the first year of residence and a total of six or seven more in the second and third years. The program of any doctoral candidate’s formal and informal study, whatever his or her particular interests, should be comprehensive enough to ensure familiarity with:

• The authors and works that have been the most influential in determining the course of English, American, and related literatures
• The theory and criticism of literature, and the relations between literature and other disciplines
• Concerns and tools of literary and cultural history such as textual criticism, study of genre, source, and influence as well as wider issues of cultural production and historical and social contexts that bear on literature

Areas in which students may have major or minor concentrations include African-American literature, American literature to 1865, American literature after 1865, American studies (a joint program with the field of history), colonial and postcolonial literatures, cultural studies, dramatic literature, English poetry, the English Renaissance to 1660, lesbian, bisexual and gay literary studies, literary criticism and theory, the nineteenth century, Old and Middle English, prose fiction, the Restoration and the eighteenth century, the twentieth century, and women's literature.

By the time a doctoral candidate enters the fourth semester of graduate study, the special committee must decide whether he or she is qualified to proceed toward the PhD. Students are required to pass their Advancement to Candidacy Examination before their fourth year of study, prior to the dissertation.

PhD Program specifics can be viewed here: PhD Timeline PhD Procedural Guide

Special Committee

Every graduate student selects a special committee of faculty advisors who work intensively with the student in selecting courses and preparing and revising the dissertation. The committee is comprised of at least three Cornell faculty members: a chair, and typically two minor members usually from the English department, but very often representing an interdisciplinary field. The university system of special committees allows students to design their own courses of study within a broad framework established by the department, and it encourages a close working relationship between professors and students, promoting freedom and flexibility in the pursuit of the graduate degree. The special committee for each student guides and supervises all academic work and assesses progress in a series of meetings with the students.

At Cornell, teaching is considered an integral part of training in academia. The field requires a carefully supervised teaching experience of at least one year for every doctoral candidate as part of the program requirements. The Department of English, in conjunction with the  John S. Knight Institute for Writing  in the Disciplines, offers excellent training for beginning teachers and varied and interesting teaching in the university-wide First-Year Writing Program. The courses are writing-intensive and may fall under such general rubrics as “Portraits of the Self,” “American Literature and Culture,” “Shakespeare,” and “Cultural Studies,” among others. A graduate student may also serve as a teaching assistant for an undergraduate lecture course taught by a member of the Department of English faculty.

Language Requirements

Each student and special committee will decide what work in foreign language is most appropriate for a student’s graduate program and scholarly interests. Some students’ doctoral programs require extensive knowledge of a single foreign language and literature; others require reading ability in two or more foreign languages. A student may be asked to demonstrate competence in foreign languages by presenting the undergraduate record, taking additional courses in foreign languages and literature, or translating and discussing documents related to the student’s work. Students are also normally expected to provide evidence of having studied the English language through courses in Old English, the history of the English language, grammatical analysis or the application of linguistic study to metrics or to literary criticism. Several departments at Cornell offer pertinent courses in such subjects as descriptive linguistics, psycholinguistics and the philosophy of language.

All PhD degree candidates are guaranteed five years of funding (including a stipend , a full tuition fellowship and student health insurance):

• A first-year non-teaching fellowship
• Two years of teaching assistantships
• A fourth-year non-teaching fellowship for the dissertation writing year
• A fifth-year teaching assistantship
• Summer support for four years, including a first-year summer teaching assistantship, linked to a teachers’ training program at the Knight Institute. Summer residency in Ithaca is required.

Students have also successfully competed for Buttrick-Crippen Fellowship, Society for the Humanities Fellowships, American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS), Shin Yong-Jin Graduate Fellowships, Provost’s Diversity Fellowships, fellowships in recognition of excellence in teaching, and grants from the Graduate School to help with the cost of travel to scholarly conferences and research collections.

Admission & Application Procedures

The application for Fall 2025 admission will open on September 1, 2024 and close at 11:59pm EST on December 1, 2024.

Please do not reach out directly to faculty with inquires, instead email  [email protected] , if you have questions.

Our application process reflects the field’s commitment to considering the whole person and their potential to contribute to our scholarly community.  Applicants will be evaluated on the basis of academic preparation (e.g., performance in relevant courses, completion of substantive, independent research project). An applicant’s critical and creative potential will be considered: applicants should demonstrate interest in extensive research and writing and include a writing sample that reveals a capacity to argue persuasively, demonstrate the ability to synthesize a broad range of materials, as well as offer fresh insights into a problem or text. The committee will also consider whether an applicant demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, equity, and diversity and offers a substantive explanation for why study at Cornell is especially compelling (e.g., a discussion of faculty research and foci). Admissions committees will consider the entire application carefully, including statements and critical writing, as well as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a resume/cv (if provided). Please view the requirements and procedures listed below, if you are interested in being considered for our PhD in English Language and Literature program.

Eligibility: Applicants must currently have, or expect to have, at least a BA or BS (or the equivalent) in any field before matriculation. International students, please verify degree equivalency here . Applicants are not required to meet a specified GPA minimum.

To Apply: All applications and supplemental materials must be submitted online through the Graduate School application system . While completing your application, you may save and edit your data. Once you click submit, your application will be closed for changes. Please proofread your materials carefully. Once you pay and click submit, you will not be able to make any changes or revisions.

Deadline: December 1st, 11:59pm EST.  This deadline is firm. No applications, additional materials, or revisions will be accepted after the deadline.

PhD Program Application Requirements Checklist

• Academic Statement of Purpose Please describe (within 1000 words) in detail the substantive research questions you are interested in pursuing during your graduate studies and why they are significant. Additionally, make sure to include information about any training or research experience that you believe has prepared you for our program. You should also identify specific faculty members whose research interests align with your own specific questions.  Note that the identification of faculty is important; you would be well advised to read selected faculty’s recent scholarship so that you can explain why you wish to study with them. Do not rely on the courses they teach.  Please refrain from contacting individual faculty prior to receiving an offer of admission.
• Personal Statement Please describe (within 1000 words) how your personal background and experiences influenced your decision to pursue a graduate degree and the research you wish to conduct.  Explain, for example the meaning and purpose of the PhD in the context of your personal history and future aspirations.  Please note that we will pay additional attention to candidates who identify substantial reasons to obtain a PhD beyond the pursuit of an academic position. Additionally, provide insight into your potential to contribute to a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect where scholars representing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn (productively and positively) together.
• Critical Writing Sample Your academic writing sample must be between 3,000 and 7,500 words (12-30 pages), typed and double-spaced. We accept excerpts from longer works, or a combination of shorter works.
• Three Letters of Recommendation We require 3 letters of recommendation.  At the time of application, you will be allowed to enter up to 4 recommenders in the system.  Your application will be considered “Complete” when we have received at least 3 letters of recommendation.  Letters of recommendation are due December 1 . Please select three people who best know you and your work. Submitting additional letters will not enhance your application. In the recommendation section of the application, you must include the email address of each recommender. After you save the information (and before you pay/submit), the application system will automatically generate a recommendation request email to your recommender with instructions for submitting the letter electronically. If your letters are stored with a credential service such as Interfolio, please use their Online Application Delivery feature and input the email address assigned to your stored document, rather than that of your recommender’s. The electronic files will be attached to your application when they are received and will not require the letter of recommendation cover page.
• Transcripts Scan transcripts from each institution you have attended, or are currently attending, and upload into the academic information section of the application. Be sure to remove your social security number from all documents prior to scanning. Please do not send paper copies of your transcripts. If you are subsequently admitted and accept, the Graduate School will require an official paper transcript from your degree-awarding institution prior to matriculation.
• English Language Proficiency Requirement All applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency. For more information, please view the  Graduate School’s English Language Requirement .
• GRE General Test and GRE Subject Test are NO LONGER REQUIRED, effective starting with the 2019 application In March 2019, the faculty of English voted overwhelmingly to eliminate all GRE requirements (both general and subject test) for application to the PhD program in English. GRE scores are not good predictors of success or failure in a PhD program in English, and the uncertain predictive value of the GRE exam is far outweighed by the toll it takes on student diversity. For many applicants the cost of preparing for and taking the exam is prohibitively expensive, and the exam is not globally accessible. Requiring the exam narrows our applicant pool at precisely the moment we should be creating bigger pipelines into higher education. We need the strength of a diverse community in order to pursue the English Department’s larger mission: to direct the force of language toward large and small acts of learning, alliance, imagination, and justice.

General Information for All Applicants

Application Fee: Visit the Graduate School for information regarding application fees, payment options, and fee waivers .

Document Identification: Please do not put your social security number on any documents.

Status Inquiries:  Once you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email. You will also be able to check the completion status of your application in your account. If vital sections of your application are missing, we will notify you via email after the Dec. 1 deadline and allow you ample time to provide the missing materials. Please do not inquire about the status of your application.

Credential/Application Assessments:  The Admission Review Committee members are unable to review application materials or applicant credentials prior to official application submission. Once the committee has reviewed applications and made admissions decisions, they will not discuss the results or make any recommendations for improving the strength of an applicant’s credentials. Applicants looking for feedback are advised to consult with their undergraduate advisor or someone else who knows them and their work.

Review Process:  Application review begins after the submission deadline. Notification of admissions decisions will be made by email by the end of February.

Connecting with Faculty and/or Students: Unfortunately, due to the volume of inquiries we receive, faculty and current students are not available to correspond with potential applicants prior to an offer of admission. Applicants who are offered admission will have the opportunity to meet faculty and students to have their questions answered prior to accepting. Staff and faculty are also not able to pre-assess potential applicant’s work outside of the formal application process. Please email [email protected] instead, if you have questions.

Visiting: The department does not offer pre-admission visits or interviews. Admitted applicants will be invited to visit the department, attend graduate seminars and meet with faculty and students before making the decision to enroll.

Transfer Credits:  Students matriculating with an MA degree may, at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Studies, receive credit for up to two courses once they begin our program.

For Further Information

Contact [email protected]

DPhil in English

• Entry requirements
• Funding and Costs

College preference

• How to Apply

About the course

The DPhil in English is intended to develop the skills and understanding necessary to undertake and present original research at a high level, and provide a thorough foundation for a career in research.

Course structure

Under the guidance of your supervisor, you will complete a thesis of 80,000 to 100,000 words. A typical term will involve a great deal of independent research, punctuated by meetings with the supervisor who will be able to suggest direction and address concerns throughout the writing process. 

In addition you will have the opportunity to attend a wide range of classes, seminars and lectures in order to learn bibliographic and research skills, interact with other researchers or gain new perspectives on your work. You may also be encouraged to attend the research skills courses available as part of the master's (MSt) programme, depending how much of this training has been covered previously.

The English Faculty is not responsible for providing teaching opportunities for research students as most undergraduate teaching in Oxford is organised by individual colleges. Teaching is not a compulsory part of the DPhil. But research students may wish to gain some teaching experience, so long as it does not interfere with their own progress. Those research students who wish to gain teaching experience are invited to attend Faculty-run preparatory teaching workshops and seminars, as well as enrolling on a Teaching Mentor Scheme. 

Further information about studying part-time

The faculty's research degrees are not available by distance learning. Although there will be no requirement to reside in Oxford, part-time research students must attend the University on a regular basis (particularly in term-time: October and November, mid-January to mid-March, and late April to mid-June) for supervision, study, research seminars and skills training.

The faculty appreciates that part-time research students will have non-standard attendance and work patterns. To ensure a comprehensive integration into the faculty's and University's research culture and with their full-time peer groups, a pattern of attendance at training events and research seminars would form part of the general study agreement for part-time students, alongside the individualised arrangements between supervisor and student. You cannot be enrolled in the part-time course if you need a visa to study in the UK.

As a part-time student you will be required to attend seminars, supervision meetings and other obligations in Oxford for a minimum of 30 days each year. Part-time students are expected to be present in Oxford for Faculty induction, college induction, and an initial meeting with supervisors in order to decide upon the programme of study for that term and to develop a plan for the coming year’s work. These are usually all held in 0th week of Michaelmas term of the 1st year. There will be some flexibility in the dates of term-time attendance which will be determined by mutual agreement with your supervisor, but part-time students are expected to be in Oxford in order to participate in key Faculty activities, which will occupy on average 20 days per term.Attendance outside of term-time is determined by mutual agreement with your supervisor.

Part-time students are expected to spend some periods in Oxford in at least two terms per year in the first two years.Part-time students are expected to attend at least half of the Faculty's (usually weekly or fortnightly) research seminar meetings in their subject area and to contribute to them as much as full-time students do over the length of their course.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Faculty of English and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside the Faculty of English.

It is expected that you will have at least two substantial supervisions in each term (or for part-time students, at least one each term). In the case of students who require specific help to adjust to an academic programme or to a new range of skills, the supervisor will work with them to ensure that they have additional support.

You will be enrolled initially as a Probationary Research Student and will then apply to transfer to full DPhil status during your first year (or for part-time students, by the end of your second year). A further assessment of your work and progress takes place during the third year of the programme (for part-time students, this would be completed by the first term of your sixth year).

In the final year of your course, you will need to submit a thesis of 80,000 to 100,000 words for assessment by an internal examiner, from within the University, and an external examiner, from beyond. There will then be a ‘viva voce’ oral examination with the two examiners.

Graduate destinations

Graduates from the English Faculty are employed across a wide range of sectors. Many take up academic positions in the UK and overseas. Other graduates pursue careers in occupations including teaching, the arts, heritage, librarianship, journalism, publishing, law and the civil service.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a first-class or high upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualification) and a master's degree with distinction. 

The undergraduate and masters' degrees should be in English literature and/or English language, or exceptionally in a related subject that prepares the applicant for the particular course of study they propose.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.75 (with at least 3.85 in the major) out of 4.0.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

• Evidence of training in research techniques may be an advantage.
• It would be expected that graduate applicants would be familiar with the recent published work of their proposed supervisor.
• Publications are not required and the English Faculty does not expect applicants to have been published.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are not normally held as part of the admissions process.

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

The facilities for English graduate students in Oxford are outstanding. In the faculty building you will find superb computing resources, a graduate common room, a café and an excellent discipline-specific library.

The English Faculty Library holds over 110,000 volumes and a wide range of print journals; it also provides regular information skills training to support teaching and research in English. Graduate students have access to all of Oxford's libraries, numbering over one hundred and including the world-famous collections of the Bodleian Library.

You will have the opportunity to hear lectures and papers by leading writers, critics, and theorists from inside and outside the University. You are encouraged to participate in the many research seminars and reading groups that run throughout term time, many of which are coordinated by graduates themselves.

There is an active and lively graduate organisation funded by the faculty, English Graduates at Oxford (EGO), that organises study skills, training and career development seminars, as well as social events and conferences.

Oxford’s Faculty of English Language and Literature is by far the largest English department in the UK and has a very distinguished research record, awarded top grades in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework. The faculty leads the Complete University League Tables (2023) and QS World University Rankings (2022) for English Language and Literature. Teaching has been graded ‘excellent’ in every quality assurance review.

The faculty currently has 80 permanent members of academic staff, including 9 statutory professors. This is in addition to a further 100 or so members teaching in the colleges and temporary members of staff. There are currently around 900 undergraduate students (with roughly 260 admitted each year to the single honours school and a further 20 to joint honours school programmes). The Oxford English Faculty has the largest graduate school in the country, with approximately 95 master's students, with a further 120 graduate research students. For the publications and research interests of particular faculty members, please consult their individual webpages.

English Language and Literature

Oxford’s Faculty of English Language and Literature is the largest English department in the UK, with over 300 graduate students. The faculty has a very distinguished research and teaching record covering all periods of English literature.

The size and distinction of the faculty’s graduate school, as well as the intellectual diversity of its graduate students, make Oxford a very stimulating environment in which to study English.

The faculty’s taught master’s courses are designed to serve both as autonomous degrees and as a solid foundation for the pursuit of more advanced research in literature in Oxford or elsewhere. One of the special features of these courses is that, unlike many master's programmes, they offer you the opportunity to pursue topics across period boundaries if you so wish.

Research in English at Oxford covers a wide range of work in literature and language over all periods to the present. The Faculty has a lively programme of research seminars in which staff and students have the opportunity to give papers on their work, and to meet specialists from other universities and institutions from the UK and abroad.

View all courses   View taught courses View research courses

The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities for this course can be found on the faculty's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Full-time study.

IMPORTANT : Please note that while most of the content of these pages relates to the course starting in 2024-25, this information about course fees and the additional information section on this page relate to entry in 2025-26 . The remaining content will be updated for 2025-26 entry later in September.

Part-time study

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Continuation charges

Following the period of fee liability , you may also be required to pay a University continuation charge and a college continuation charge. The University and college continuation charges are shown on the Continuation charges page.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

There are no compulsory elements of this course that entail additional costs beyond fees (or, after fee liability ends, continuation charges) and living costs. However, please note that, depending on your choice of research topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Please note that you are required to attend in Oxford for a minimum of 30 days each year, and you may incur additional travel and accommodation expenses for this. Also, depending on your choice of research topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur further additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

If you are studying part-time your living costs may vary depending on your personal circumstances but you must still ensure that you will have sufficient funding to meet these costs for the duration of your course.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

If you are a current Oxford student and you would like to remain at your current Oxford college, you should check whether it is listed below. If it is, you should indicate this preference when you apply. If not, you should contact your college office to ask whether they would be willing to make an exception. Further information about staying at your current college can be found in our Application Guide. 

The following colleges accept students for full-time study on this course:

• Balliol College
• Blackfriars
• Brasenose College
• Campion Hall
• Christ Church
• Corpus Christi College
• Exeter College
• Harris Manchester College
• Hertford College
• Jesus College
• Keble College
• Kellogg College
• Lady Margaret Hall
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Magdalen College
• Mansfield College
• Merton College
• New College
• Oriel College
• Pembroke College
• The Queen's College
• Regent's Park College
• St Anne's College
• St Antony's College
• St Catherine's College
• St Cross College
• St Edmund Hall
• St Hilda's College
• St Hugh's College
• St John's College
• St Peter's College
• Somerville College
• Trinity College
• University College
• Wadham College
• Wolfson College
• Worcester College
• Wycliffe Hall

The following colleges accept students for part-time study on this course:

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable for each application to this course. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Readmission for current Oxford graduate taught students

If you're currently studying for an Oxford graduate taught course and apply to this course with no break in your studies, you may be eligible to apply to this course as a readmission applicant. The application fee will be waived for an eligible application of this type. Check whether you're eligible to apply for readmission .

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

You are not expected to contact a potential supervisor before submitting an application. However, if the proposed research topic is unusual, you may find it useful to review the faculty members and research sections of the faculty website to see if supervision is likely to be available from among the permanent members of staff.

Please note that the allocation of graduate supervision is the responsibility of the Faculty of English and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Please note also that a faculty member's willingness to supervise is no guarantee of admission.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Proposed field and title of research project

Under the 'Field and title of research project' please enter your proposed field or area of research if this is known. If the department has advertised a specific research project that you would like to be considered for, please enter the project title here instead.

You should not use this field to type out a full research proposal. You will be able to upload your research supporting materials separately if they are required (as described below).

Proposed supervisor

If known, under 'Proposed supervisor name' enter the name of the academic who you would like to supervise your research. Otherwise leave this field blank.

Referees Three overall, academic preferred

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

The Faculty of English expects three academic references in all but exceptional cases, and never fewer than two academic references.

Your references will support intellectual ability, academic achievement and motivation.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Research proposal: A maximum of 1,500 words

The research proposal should be an outline of the research plans, written in English. The overall word count should include any bibliography.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

This will be assessed for:

• the coherence and viability of the project
• the originality of the project
• the feasibility of successfully completing the project in the time available for the course (a maximum of four years)
• evidence of understanding of appropriate research skills required for successful completion of the project and of appropriate training at master’s level or equivalent to undertake the project.

Written work: Either two essays of a maximum length of 2,000 words each or one essay of a maximum length of 4,000 words

Academic essays from your most recent qualification, written in English, are required. Extracts from longer pieces are welcome but should be prefaced by a note which puts them in context. The word count does not need to include any bibliography or brief footnotes.

It is better to submit essays related to the area and in the subject in which you wish to work.

This work will be assessed for analytical and critical acumen; ability to construct and defend an argument; and powers of expression.

Instructions for submitting one long piece of work instead of two short pieces

To submit one longer piece of work in your application instead of two shorter pieces, you should upload this document in the first 'Written work' slot on the 'Supporting Documents' tab of the Application Form. In the second 'Written work' slot, you should upload a PDF document with the following statement:

' I have included one long essay in lieu of two short essays. I have checked the course page to confirm this is permitted for this course. '

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice .

Application Guide   Apply - Full time Apply - Part time

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Tuesday 7 January 2025

Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships Final application deadline for entry in 2025-26

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered by the Faculty of English Language and Literature

• Course page on the faculty's website
• Funding information from the faculty
• Academic and research staff
• Faculty research
• Humanities Division
• Residence requirements for full-time courses
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected] ☎ +44 (0)1865 281140  or  +44 (0)1865 271541

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Visa eligibility for part-time study

We are unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only (and leave after each visit) and will need to remain based outside the UK.

• Utility Menu

• Guidelines for Admission

Application for admission to the Harvard English Graduate Program is completed through the  Graduate School of Arts and Sciences .  The application deadline for 2023-2024 admission is January 5th, 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.  For a full list of application requirements and instructions for the application process, please see the  GSAS Application Instructions  and  GSAS Admissions Requirements .

The Harvard English Department does not discriminate against applicants or students on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry or any other protected classification.

The following is a set of general guidelines for the English Department’s admissions process. It should be noted that while several areas are emphasized here, the Admissions Committee carefully examines the overall profile of each applicant, taking these and other aspects of the application into consideration:

Writing Samples

The writing samples (one primary and one secondary) are highly significant parts of the application. Candidates should submit two double-spaced, 15-page papers of no more than 5,000 words each, in 12-point type, and with 1-inch margins. The writing samples must be examples of critical writing (rather than creative writing) on subjects directly related to English. Applicants should not send longer papers with instructions to read an excerpt or excerpts, but should edit the samples themselves so that they submit only fifteen pages for each paper. Candidates who know the field in which they expect to specialize should, when possible, submit a primary writing sample related to that field.

While candidates’ overall GPA is important, it is more important to have an average of no lower than A- in literature courses (and related courses). In addition, while we encourage applications from candidates in programs other than English, they must have both the requisite critical skills and a foundation in English literature for graduate work in English. Most of our successful candidates have some knowledge of all the major fields of English literary study and advanced knowledge of the field in which they intend to study.

Three Letters of Recommendation

It is important to have strong letters of recommendation from professors who are familiar with candidates’ academic work. Applicants who have been out of school for several years should try to reestablish contact with former professors. Additional letters from employers may also be included. Recommenders should comment not only on the applicant’s academic readiness for our PhD program but also on the applicant’s future potential as teachers and scholars. 

Unfortunately, Interfolio does not work well with Harvard’s online application system. We ask that your recommenders upload their letters directly to the online application, with upload tool provided.

Statement of Purpose

The Statement of Purpose is not a personal statement and should not be heavily weighted down with autobiographical anecdotes. It should be no longer than 1,000 words. It should focus on giving the admissions committee a clear sense of applicants’ individual interests and strengths. Applicants need not indicate a precise field of specialization, if they do not know, but it is helpful to know something about a candidate’s professional aspirations and sense of their own skills, as well as how the Harvard English department might help in attaining their goals. Those who already have a research topic in mind should outline it in detail, giving a sense of how they plan their progress through the program. Those who do not should at least attempt to define the questions and interests they foresee driving their work over the next few years.

While there are no specific prerequisites for admission, a strong language background helps to strengthen the application, and students who lack it should be aware that they will need to address these gaps during their first two years of graduate study. For more details, please see the “Language Requirements” section of the Program Description .

The GRE General and Subject Tests are not required as part of the English PhD application process. Students wishing to send in scores may do so, but they will not be factored into the admissions decision.

Areas of Study

Unspecified | Medieval | Renaissance/Early Modern | 18th Century/Enlightenment | 19th Century British/Romantics/Victorian | Early American (to 1900) | 20th Century British | 20th Century American | Criticism and Theory | The English Language | Transnational Anglophone/Postcolonial | African American Literature | Drama | Poetry

The Harvard English Department is committed to admitting and supporting a diverse community of graduate students. The Department encourages applications from students from all undergraduate institutions and backgrounds, including students of color and underrepresented minorities, queer and transgender students, first-generation students, foreign nationals, and veterans. The Department also encourages applications from students across a range of sub-fields, critical perspectives, and methodological orientations. You can browse current student research interests by going to “Graduate Students” under the “People” tab at the top of this page and sorting by field. For more information about issues of diversity at the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, please review the resources and informations below:

Diversity at GSAS

Perspectives: Resources for Minority Applicants 

Smooth Transitions: Organizations and Resources

W.E.B. Du Bois Graduate Society

Graduate Admissions FAQ

How many people apply to the program, and how many are admitted.

The PhD program in English at Harvard is extremely competitive. We receive an average of 300-350 applications per year, and we admit approximately 10-15 students (acceptance rate of about 4-5%).

Does the Department of English offer an MA or MFA?

No; the Department of English only offers a PhD in English Literature. Students already in the doctoral program who have met certain curricular requirements are able to apply for a non-terminal AM degree, but no terminal Master's program exists. We do not offer a graduate program in creative writing.

Does the Department of English offer a degree in TEFL/TESOL/TESL

No, the Department of English does not offer these programs. Our graduate program leads to a PhD in English Literature.

Are international applicants encouraged?

The department welcomes international applicants, including non-native English speakers who have a strong command of the English language. Per GSAS:

"Adequate  command of spoken and written English  is essential to success in graduate study at Harvard. Applicants who are non-native English speakers can demonstrate English proficiency in one of three ways:

• Receiving an undergraduate degree from an academic institution where English is the primary language of instruction.*
• Earning a minimum score of 80 on the Internet based test (iBT) of the  Test of English as a Foreign Language  (TOEFL)**
• Earning a minimum score of 6.5 on the  International English Language Testing System  (IELTS) Academic test.**

A master’s degree or other graduate degree is not accepted as proof of English proficiency.

*Special note for applicants with an undergraduate degree from a US institution where English was not the primary language of instruction: if a portion of your program was conducted in English, you may petition for a waiver of the TOEFL/IELTS requirement. Contact  [email protected]  for details.

**Some degree programs may require a higher score on either the TOEFL or IELTS. Visit your  degree program  page of interest for more information."

Many international students inquire about non-degree granting program. Information for Special Student, Visiting Fellow, and other programs can be found here .

Can accepted students enroll on a part-time basis?

No, our graduate program is full-time, and requires residency at Harvard. The majority of our students take five or six years to obtain their PhD. If you are interested in taking graduate courses part-time, online, and/or at night, you may want to look into the offerings of the Harvard Extension School .

Can accepted students pursue a secondary field of study?

Yes. For a list of fields and more information, please visit the secondary field of study page on the GSAS website . Students who choose to pursue courses for a secondary field remain under GSAS time limits and must meet all milestones and deadlines in the English PhD program.

Does the department offer financial aid?

Admissions decisions are made without knowing the financial need of the applicants, so that financial status (including availability of supplemental funding) plays no role in the assessment of one's suitability for admission. All students (including international students) who are admitted to the PhD program receive full and equal funding, through tuition waivers and modest living stipends. Teaching fellowships are made available to graduate students starting in their third year. You may want to review the "Tuition and Fees" section of GSAS's website for details about other fees and the approximate cost of living in Cambridge.

Can you provide a list of required documents for application?

-  Two writing samples  (one primary and one secondary) 15-pages in length each, double-spaced (bibliographies do not count toward the page limit).

-  A Statement of Purpose  of 1000 words, which gives a clear sense of your strengths and interests and which details what you wish to pursue in a doctoral program.

-  Transcripts  from each college/university attended. The Graduate School requires that you upload your transcript(s) with your online application. Please do not send paper transcripts.

-  Three recommendations  from faculty members who can speak to your academic capabilities.  All recommendations should be uploaded via the GSAS online application system.  Please do not send paper recommendations. We do not recommend the use of Interfolio.

- A minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) is required for all non-native English speakers who have not received a degree from a university or college in which English is the language of instruction.

What if I am missing any of the required components?

An incomplete application will still be reviewed in its entirety, but it will not be seen as competitive as applications considered "complete."

What if I did not major in English as an undergraduate?

Students admitted to our program have not always been English majors as undergraduates; however, applicants must have both the requisite critical skills and a foundation in English literature for graduate work. This is generally demonstrated by substantial undergraduate coursework and recommendations from faculty in the field. Applicants from other disciplines will sometimes pursue a Master’s degree (or other graduate coursework) in English Literature first – before applying to the PhD program – to obtain a stronger background in the subject.

What if I already have a Master's Degree in English?

If you already have an MA, a maximum of four graduate-level courses may be transferred from the other institution, at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Studies. Transferred courses will count as 100-level courses toward your PhD requirements. Please note that an MA is not required for admission to the PhD Program – and indeed, the majority of our applicants do not have one.

Is proficiency in languages other than English required?

There are no specific language prerequisites for admission, but a solid background in languages other than English, particularly those that would be useful for scholarly research, will strengthen your application. Demonstrated reading knowledge of two languages (usually Latin, Greek, French, German, Spanish, and Italian) is required by the beginning of the third year in the program. You can view examples of past language exams on our  Resources for Grad Students page.

Can I meet with a professor?

Appointments to meet with faculty members must be made by contacting them directly. You can find their contact info on the faculty page .

Where should I mail supplemental application materials?

The entire application system is conducted online. Please do not send any paper materials to the English Department. GSAS admissions also no longer accepts paper materials. 

I'm having a technical problem with the GSAS online application.

The Department of English is not able to troubleshoot or provide help for technical issues with the online application tool. Please click the “Technical Support” link on the application login screen to notify tech support.

When will I hear back about application decisions?

GSAS Admissions sends out letters containing application decisions in early- to mid-March. Please note that the English Department is not able to answer questions about a candidate’s application status over the phone or via email.

Can I study as a visiting fellow at Harvard?

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences offers the option of enrolling as a Special Student or Visiting Fellow. See here for more details. Please note that the Department of English does not play a role in the administration of this program.

I have another question that hasn't been answered here.

Please email questions to [email protected] .

• Program Description
• Teaching Fellows
• Fellowships
• Graduate Prizes
• Resources for Grad Students
• English PhD Alumni Network & Placement Information

Home  >  News & Articles  >  PhD in English: Courses, Fees, Syllabus, Eligibility, Top Colleges, Scope & Salary 2023

Abhishek Dogra

Updated on 18th August, 2023 , 10 min read

PhD in English: Courses, Fees, Syllabus, Eligibility, Top Colleges, Scope & Salary 2023

A PhD in English is a three to six-year doctorate program that focuses on technical writing in prose, poetry, theater, and fiction as well as translations, international literature, and ancient literature. There are several job prospects for English PhD candidates in India and overseas in the humanities, social sciences, and arts. Graduates can begin their careers as a lecturer, professors, school teachers, private tutors, education consultants, vice principals, program managers, English teachers, language trainers, proofreaders, or customer support associates, among other positions.

PhD in English students must have earned their Masters's degrees in order to enroll in a PhD English course. Before applying for admission to a PhD in English, an M.A. in English or an M.Phil. is required. They should receive at least 50% of the possible points in their exams. Additionally, several colleges and universities accept job applications for English research positions. These roles are typically referred to as research fellows. This may serve as yet another entry point for a PhD English course. There are PhD entry exams at some universities.

PhD in English: Course Highlights

Why Pursue PhD in English?   

A PhD in English literature is a fantastic way to advance your abilities in critical thinking, cooperation, communication, independent research, and many other areas and discover more about your areas of interest, and get the skills you need to advance particular study topics significantly. 

Who should pursue PhD in English?

It's important to note that pursuing a PhD in English is a significant commitment, often requiring several years of research, academic writing, and critical analysis. Prospective PhD candidates should be passionate about their chosen area of study, dedicated to research, and have a strong desire to contribute to the academic and intellectual discourse within the field of English language and literature.

PhD in English: Duration

PhD in English is a three-year program. It deals to impart students with the required theoretical background and research skills where students research and comprehension of works published in the English language in various historical periods, from prehistoric times to the post-modern era.

PhD in English: Fees

Some of the top Colleges/Universities offering Ph.D , location, along with their fees are given below: 

PhD in English: Eligibility

The minimum eligibility for PhD English Literature is a master's degree in the English language with a minimum of 55% aggregate in the discipline passed from a recognized university.

PhD in English Admission Process

The completion of a Masters-level degree is the primary qualification for admission to PhD English programs. An M.A. in the arts or an M.Phil. Students who are taking final exams may also apply to take the entrance test. Such students should be ready for the State Level Eligibility Tests (SLETs), the CSIR-NET, or the GATE entrance exams.

It's critical to keep in mind that passing results on these tests are a criterion for admission. Additionally, keep in mind that SLET results are only important for the state. However, GATE and CSIR-NET exam results are accepted at all Indian universities. Only a few Indian universities accept GATE scores, but all Indian institutes accept CSIR-NET scores.

PhD in English Entrance Examinations

There are several routes for a deserving student to gain admission to a PhD in English. In addition to the admission tests mentioned above, the relevant universities also hold university-level exams. Merit-based admissions are used by several universities.

PhD English: Important dates of Entrance Exams

Written below are the important dates for PhD in English entrance exam :

PhD in English: Syllabus

Deep reflection and social awareness are key components of a PhD in English course. The following domains make up the learning experiences for PhD students, though the names of the subjects may vary from university to university.

A detailed syllabus for the PhD The English course is provided in the table below. The presentation is thorough in the syllabus. Depending on the situation, individual universities may add additional sections.

PhD in English: Colleges in India

PhD in English: Colleges in Delhi

Phd in english: college comparison.

PhD in English at Loyal College vs PhD in English at Chandigarh University

PhD in English: Salary

A PhD holder's pay will vary depending on their subject and job. PhD in English jobs in India are available in both the public and private sectors.  The typical pay for new hires is between INR 3.5 and 5 LPA. Depending on your qualifications and expertise, it might rise to INR 6–12 LPA. The work scope will expand with experience and expertise. Additionally, government universities will pay professors INR 6 LPA in salaries.

Given below are the PhD in English jobs along with their respective salaries:

PhD in English: Job 

After earning a PhD in English, jobs in the creative and educating industries are available. Schools and colleges are the first significant locations where PhD in English-qualified scholars may apply for jobs because they are where English is taught the most. They have the option of beginning as Teacher Assistants and moving up to Department Head. Critics may work in the creative field if they have a PhD in cinematography or broadcast media certification. Like articles moderators, and critics. Publisher houses that check and edit books before they are eventually published may also have critics.

The types of work profiles that research scholars completing Ph.Ds in English you obtain are listed below. At this point, it's crucial to keep in mind that a PhD graduate may begin at entry-level or even nominal levels. The prospect doesn't become qualified for higher positions until after a few years of work experience. However, compared to graduates and postgraduates with master's degrees, this frequently happens more quickly.

Listed below is a table that shows a few of the job profiles after completion of the PhD in English.

PhD in English: Future Scope

PhD English has very promising potential. Despite having a majority of Hindi speakers, English is used in nearly every industry. The most popular career options in India right now are working as a critic, penning publications, and reviewing books and movies.

1. PhD in Religious Studies

In this students probably read a few religious texts as an English major, and regardless of your affiliation (if any), you comprehend their significance. Actually, you don't have to be religious to pursue a PhD in religious studies. Studying religion entails studying ethics, convictions, societies, and individuals.

2. PhD in Linguistics

Language studies, also known as linguistics, cover all facets of language as well as the techniques used to study and model them. When reading a line of dialogue in literary fiction, did you notice how clear the dialect was

3.  PhD in History

Record, of course, is the study of the past. At the same, background helps us understand change and how the community we now live in came to be.

"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again".– Maya Angelou.

A component of being a student of history is gaining the ability to sort through varied, usually conflicting interpretations. Your bachelor's degree in English will set you up for success.

4.  PhD in Media Studies

The works of writers give us direct access to what it means to be human in all its complexity and mystery, just like all other forms of art do. If you discovered that your favorite aspect of majoring in English was the art and literature you encountered, you might want to think about pursuing a PhD in something like Media Studies.

5.  PhD in Political Science

Political science and English may at first seem like odd bedfellows. But during your undergraduate studies, you already developed a solid foundation in critical reading and thinking, approached literary analysis through a variety of lenses, and identified the influences of culture, politics, and social issues scattered throughout a work.

Many great works contain references to political, economic, and their interactions. Understanding the historical and philosophical roots of political values is possible through the study of political science.

6. PhD in English

Predictably, a significant in English greatly aids in your preparation for an English Ph.D

A PhD in English provides students with the in-depth understanding of literary criticism they need to meet faculties around the world, from the earliest poetic developments in Old English to the most recent creative work currently being published. You can research literature from the Middle Ages, African American literature, or literature written during the American Revolution, depending on your area of expertise.

Your English bachelor's degree provided you with a large overview, but your PhD will enable you to focus on one area of expertise and develop it further.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a doctorate in english entail.

After earning a PhD in English, there are numerous career options. Writing, training, authorship, and public relations officers can all pursue careers that allow them to interact with people.

What is the average salary for a PhD in English?

The average salary for a Ph. D in an English career in India for the doctorates is around INR 7LPA.

What is the eligibility for PhD in English from IGNOU?

Students must have finished their Master's Degree from a University recognized by UGC.

How useful is a PhD in English?

A PhD in English Literature offers a great opportunity to gain valuable skills in critical analysis, communication, independent research, collaboration, and many more.

Is a Doctorate entrance exam required?

Entrance exams are the main factor in determining PhD admittance in 2023, but some universities also accept merit-based applications.

Can someone do PhD without a Master's?

The chances of being accepted into a PhD program are slim to none if candidate don't have the appropriate educational background in the field.

What is the duration of PhD in english course?

The duration of PhD course is between 3 to 5 years.

Does IGNOU offer PhD in English?

Yes, IGNOU offers PhD in English.

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Popular searches, popular colleges/universities, top colleges by courses, top courses.

English Language and Literature MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

One of the highest-ranking English departments in the UK ( The Guardian University Guide 2023 - English ), UCL English provides excellent opportunities for PhD students to study in the heart of literary London, with access to vast quantities of resources and research materials, and a high number of academic staff working on a diverse range of specialist research topics.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree in English Literature or a related subject is a pre-requisite for this programme, and a UK Master's degree in a relevant discipline, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard will normally be required. Research degree students are expected to start in September, but may request to start in January if there are exceptional reasons to do so. Applicants who wish to be considered for AHRC/ LAHP funding must have submitted a complete application by 5 January 2024.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

With access to vast collections of research materials and supervision from world-leading experts* in a wide range of literary periods and topics, UCL provides an exceptionally strong environment in which to study for an English PhD. UCL English Department has specialists in every period of English and American literature, as well as English language, with an outstanding record of internationally recognised scholarship and publications. A PhD in English at UCL will allow you to pursue original research and make a significant contribution to your field. 

Students accepted for admission are given a principal supervisor with whom they will work closely during the course of the degree. A subsidiary supervisor is also appointed to provide additional advice. Great importance is attached to matching student and supervisor, and ensuring that students' progress is well monitored. Students meet either one or other supervisor approximately ten times during the academic year.

Graduate students initially register for the MPhil degree, but usually upgrade to full PhD student status in the second year, if progress is satisfactory. (The English Department does not offer a standalone research Master's programme, nor is it possible to be admitted as a PhD student directly.) In addition to the upgrade review in the second year, progress is also reviewed at the end of each year. Students who are making good progress will usually be offered opportunities to gain teaching experience from the second year onwards.

There are normally about 45 students undertaking research degrees in the department. They form a diverse, friendly, and vibrant intellectual community. There is a full programme of departmental research seminars at which papers are given by invited speakers and graduate students, and students also have access to a wide range of seminars and research events across UCL and the University of London. Research skills training is provided both within and beyond the department.

PhD students at UCL have access to an incomparable range of libraries, including the British Library and Senate House Library (the library of the University of London). They can also apply to spend a period as a visiting scholar at Yale as part of the UCL-Yale Collaborative Partnership.

Who this course is for

This programme is suitable for applicants with a strong interest or background in a wide range of literary periods or in English Linguistics, and who want to do complete research alongside specialists in literature in English and linguistics of the English language. The programme is suitable for both recent Masters graduates as well as early or mid-career professionals who have achieved the stated entry requirements.

What this course will give you

As one of the most respected academic institutions in the world ( QS World University Rankings 2023 ), UCL is an excellent place to study for a PhD in English. Our PhD students benefit from specialist supervision by world-leading researchers* as well as access to the outstanding range of research resources available to them in London.

The clear structure of the PhD programme, with regular progress reviews, supports successful completion, while the training courses offered by the department and UCL enable the development of both specific research skills and the professional skills needed for an academic career.

The relatively small department also offers many opportunities for formal and informal intellectual exchanges and collaborations, supported by our programme of research seminars. Many of our students also make the most of UCL’s partnership with Yale to spend a period of study there.

PhD students in English at UCL acquire advanced skills of the highest calibre as researchers, writers, and presenters of their work. They will also usually gain experience of teaching (both tutorials and seminars).

*UCL English has an outstanding research record, with 94% of our research outputs being graded as 4* 'world leading' or 3* 'internationally excellent' in the REF 2021.

The foundation of your career

The English Department is proud of its PhD alumni and values its ongoing relationship with them. We welcome alumni to departmental events, and encourage them to keep in touch with us at [email protected] . For more information on UCL’s wider alumni community, please see our website .

Employability

Our PhD graduates have an excellent record of securing employment in institutions of higher education and have progressed to academic positions here at UCL, at Oxford and Cambridge, in the wider University of London, at other universities across the UK, and in international destinations including the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. They are also well placed to pursue careers outside academia, as the skills in research, analysis, writing, and communication obtained during the PhD transfer easily to high-level work in many sectors.

Networking both among students and with academic staff and visiting speakers is facilitated by our lively programme of departmental research seminars, as well as our various reading groups and events. Beyond the department, extensive opportunities to meet fellow specialists and exchange knowledge and ideas are offered by the events programmes of the UCL Institute for Advanced Studies, the University of London Institute of English Studies, and numerous other research institutions near UCL and across London.

Teaching and learning

The MPhil/PhD degree programme primarily consists of independent research and self-directed study, and the central work of defining a thesis topic, and planning the stages of research and writing, is undertaken in close consultation with the primary supervisor. You will also undertake skills training that may take the form of seminars, workshops, and conferences. 

Graduate students initially register for the MPhil degree, but upgrade to full PhD student status at the start of the second year, if progress is satisfactory.

In addition to the upgrade review at the start of the second year, progress is also reviewed at the end of the first year, in the first-year review, where the student submits a portfolio to their supervisory team, and at the Higher Degrees Sub Committee (HDSC) in their third year, where a submitted portfolio is assessed by a panel of senior academics in the department. A successful performance at the HDSC normally means the student will achieve Completing Research Student (CRS) status. Students who are making good progress will usually be offered opportunities to gain teaching experience from the second year onwards.

The MPhil/PhD degree programme consists of independent research and self-directed study. There are no set contact hours for the programme, but it is expected that your hours of study will mirror that of staff engagement as closely as possible (and this should be pro-rata for part-time study). If you have external funding, you should also ensure that you meet the Terms & Conditions of your funder in this regard. You will typically meet with your supervisory team up to ten times per academic year, and you will also undertake skills training that may take the form of seminars, workshops, and conferences.

Research areas and structure

We offer expertise in a wide range of topics within the field of English literature and language. Some areas in which the department would particularly welcome applications are:

• Old and Middle English literature and manuscript studies
• Relations between English and insular and continental French writings from the thirteenth to the fifteenth centuries
• Post-medieval bibliography and palaeography
• History of the book, textual and editorial theory and practice in all periods
• Shakespeare studies, including Shakespeare’s London
• The literature of the Elizabethan court
• Women writers of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries
• Classicism in seventeenth and eighteenth-century literary culture
• Literature and science in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries
• Revolutionary Writings in the Romantic period
• Homosexuality and literary history
• Literature and technology in late nineteenth and early twentieth-century literature
• Victorian and Edwardian writings on sexuality and adolescence
• Contemporary poetry
• Postmodern fiction
• London in literature/urban literature
• English grammar
• English language
• The history of the English language
• Corpus linguistics

You can read about our staff research interests on our website .

Research environment

UCL English has, throughout its history, been a pioneer in the study of English language and English literature, from Old English to contemporary texts. The department comprises a dynamic community of scholars with a breadth of expertise across literary periods and topics, as well as in language and linguistics. The comparatively small size of the department creates a friendly, inclusive research environment, with close contact between staff and students and many opportunities for intellectual exchange and collaboration.

Members of the English department have expertise in a wide range of approaches to English literature and language. Many of our literary research activities are organised around the key themes of The City, Editions, and Intercultural Exchanges, while our research in English Language is co-ordinated by the renowned Survey of English Usage. The department hosts regular research seminars at which PhD students, members of staff, and visiting speakers present their work; these include a themed strand of seminars on Race, Power, and Poetics. There are also many more seminars, reading groups and research events, both within the department, at the UCL Institute of Advanced Studies, and at the University of London’s Institute of English Studies. The department’s PhD students organise an annual Graduate Conference, where UCL speakers are joined by others from across the UK and beyond to share their research. They also publish Moveable Type, a peer-reviewed journal of academic articles, poetry and prose fiction.

UCL Library has outstanding physical and digital collections for literary research, as well as specialist materials in its excellent Special Collections department. Among these are the George Orwell Archive; Little Magazines; the Routledge and Kegan Paul Archives (publishing history); the Brougham Papers and papers of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (19th-century liberalism); and the Chadwick Papers (19th-century sanitary reform). UCL Library also has superb holdings in London history. We enjoy unrivalled proximity to the British Library, with its vast collections, and Senate House Library (the library of the University of London), as well as other rich research resources including the Institute of Historical Research, the Warburg Institute, and the Wellcome Collection.

The period of registration for the MPhil/PhD degree programme is 3 years for full-time study. You are required to register initially for the MPhil degree with the expectation of transfer to PhD after successful completion of an upgrade review 9-18 months after initial registration.

Throughout your period of registration, you will meet regularly with your supervisory team, receiving feedback on work-in-progress. Regular completion of an online research log will help you and your supervisors to assess your specific training needs. The English Department provides a course in PhD Skills Training; many further training opportunities are also offered by the UCL Doctoral Skills Development Programme and LAHP (the London Arts and Humanities Partnership).

To ensure timely and successful completion of the thesis, the English Department formally reviews each student’s progress at regular intervals (usually the end of each year) by requiring submission of a dossier of work which is discussed in an interview. The most important of these reviews falls during your second year (9-18 months from registration) and will assess your readiness to transfer from MPhil to full PhD student status.

Upon successful completion of your approved period of registration, you may apply for a further period of 1 year as a Completing Research Student (CRS) to prepare your thesis for submission. The final degree assessment takes the form of an oral examination based on the thesis and is conducted by two examiners, usually one internal and one external.

The period of registration for the MPhil/PhD degree programme is 5 years for part-time study. You are required to register initially for the MPhil degree with the expectation of transfer to PhD after successful completion of an upgrade review 15-30 months after initial registration for part-time study.    Throughout your period of registration, you will meet regularly with your supervisory team, receiving feedback on work-in-progress. Regular completion of an online research log will help you and your supervisors to assess your specific training needs. The English Department provides a course in PhD Skills Training; many further training opportunities are also offered by the UCL Doctoral Skills Development Programme and LAHP (the London Arts and Humanities Partnership).   To ensure timely and successful completion of the thesis, the English Department formally reviews each student’s progress at regular intervals (usually the end of each year) by requiring submission of a dossier of work which is discussed in an interview. The most important of these reviews falls during your second or third year (15-30 months from registration) for part-time study, and will assess your readiness to transfer from MPhil to full PhD student status.   Upon successful completion of your approved period of registration, you may apply for a further period of 2 years (for part-time students) as a Completing Research Student (CRS) to prepare your thesis for submission. The final degree assessment takes the form of an oral examination based on the thesis and is conducted by two examiners, usually one internal and one external.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Additional costs may include expenses such as books, stationery, printing or photocopying, and conference registration fees.

The Department has some funds which can be applied for, to help offset the cost of travel to conferences or archives in the UK or overseas.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

AHRC grants are available for UK/EU English PhD applicants who are applying to start a research degree in 2024. Applications are made directly to the London Arts and Humanities Partnership, who administer the awarding of AHRC funding at UCL. AHRC funding covers all fees, as well as providing a stipend for living expenses, for three years. If you have any questions about the application process please contact [email protected] .

UCL's Research Excellence Scholarships are available for UK/EU/Overseas applicants starting in 2024 and provides full funding including a stipend for living allowance for the length of the programme.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Quirk PhD Scholarship

Deadline: 26 January 2024 Value: Fees and maintenance (3yrs) Criteria Based on both academic merit and financial need Eligibility: UK

We recommend that applicants look at our list of staff on the UCL English website before submitting an application. Whilst potential supervisors are unable to accept a PhD student without a formal application form, we attach great importance to the match between supervisors and students, so please check that we have a member of teaching staff who could potentially supervise your project before applying. Applicants who are interested in applying for AHRC funding via the London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP) must submit completed applications (including references) by 5 January 2024 (you will also need to complete a LAHP application form: see the LAHP website for details).

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

English Language and Literature

[email protected]

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English Literature (PhD)

Program overview Program structure Admission requirements Application process Tuition & funding

Program overview

The PhD in English Literature will deepen your mastery of period- and area-specific archives and develop your skills as a literary scholar. You will investigate the cultural categories of literature and the media in both historical and contemporary contexts. Living and studying in the vibrant, bilingual city of Montreal, you will study literatures in English with a focus on interdisciplinary exchanges and cross-cultural environments. The program is of special interest to doctoral students seeking to work across discourses, media, or literary languages and traditions.

Program structure

Degree requirements, degree requirements.

Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 90 credits.

Please see the English Courses page for course descriptions.

English Literature PhD (90 credits)

Independent Studies in English Literature

Special Topics in English Literature

Studies in Early English Literature and Medieval Literature

Studies in Renaissance Literature

Studies in Restoration and Eighteenth Century Literature

Studies in Nineteenth Century Literature

Studies in Twentieth Century Literature

Studies in Poetry

Studies in Drama

Studies in Fiction

Studies in the History of Ideas

Studies in Shakespeare

Studies in American Literature

Studies in Canadian Literature

Studies in Post-Colonial Literature

Studies in Literary Criticism

Studies in Selected Areas

Admission requirements

Admission requirements.

• Master's degree in English or equivalent.
• GPA of 3.50 or above from a recognized university.
• Promise as a scholar as demonstrated by letter of intent and submitted writing sample.
• Proposed research that is relevant to the program.
• A feasible research proposal in terms of material resources including faculty supervision.
• Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the English language proficiency page for further information on requirements and exemptions.

Application process

Application deadlines.

Priority will be given to complete applications submitted by the deadline. In some cases, programs may continue to accept applications as long as there is space available.

International students: Considering the waiting period involved in meeting the entry requirements to Canada and Quebec , we strongly encourage international applicants to apply early and submit supporting documents prior to the deadline.

Tuition & funding

Tuition and fees.

Tuition and fees of the program may depend on your student status, among other key factors. Estimate these costs based on the most common situations.

Awards and funding

Funding packages are generally available for students in thesis-based programs. They come in the form of awards, teaching and research assistantships are offered at the time of admission to most students to allow them to focus on their research and studies. Research and thesis-based students are automatically considered for all entrance graduate awards when they apply to Concordia, provided they meet eligibility criteria. No separate application is required.

The Quebec and Canadian governments offer a number of competitive graduate scholarships. We encourage you to apply for these awards at the same time you are preparing your application.

© Concordia University

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English Literature PhD/ MA by Research (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

Annual tuition fee 2024 entry: UK: £4,786 full-time, £2,393 part-time International: £21,840 full-time; £10,920 part-time (distance learning only) More detail .

• Visit an Open Day
• Request a prospectus
• Course details
• Entry Requirements
• Employability

By pursuing research in English Literature at Birmingham, you will be joining a vibrant and dynamic research community thanks to the Department’s diverse research interests and approaches.

You will also benefit from our world-class library resources, including University’s Main Library and the Cadbury Research Library where a host of rare manuscripts and archives are available.

AHRC funding for PhD students

The University of Birmingham is part of the Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Partnership (M4C), offering Arts and Humanities Research Council PhD studentships for campus-based programmes. These include a number of Collaborative Doctoral Award opportunities. Each studentship includes research fees, a substantial maintenance grant and additional research training support. Applications are open until 12:00 (noon), 13 January 2021.

Find out more

Scholarships for 2024 entry

The University of Birmingham is proud to offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate programmes. With a scholarship pot worth over £2 million, we are committed to alleviating financial barriers to support you in taking your next steps.

Each scholarship has its own specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Please familiarise yourself with the information on individual scholarship webpages prior to submitting an application.

Explore our scholarships

English scholarships available

The College of Arts and Law is offering a number of scholarships for postgraduate research students in English Literature. This includes the prestigious Wolfson Scholarships, which provide for fees, a maintenance grant, and some research and training costs. Applications are now open.

Find out more and apply now

Virtual Open Day: Postgraduate opportunities in English Literature - 6 May 2020, 14:00-15:00

Join us online to watch a range of staff and student videos, and take part in our online chat where Dr Chris Mourant and Dr Matthew Ward will be answering your questions about postgraduate study.

Find out more and register

We offer two postgraduate research-only programmes, whether you are looking to complete your academic studies with a PhD or pursue your research at Masters level. Find out more about what to expect from a PhD and MA by Research .

At Birmingham, Postgraduate Taught and Postgraduate Research students also have the opportunity to learn graduate academic languages free of charge, to support your studies.

• Graduate School Language Skills

The opportunity to engage in three years of in-depth study in English Literature offered me the chance to not only engage in three years of research, but also to develop a more comprehensive understanding of how literature informs and influences our responses to the world around us. William

Why study this course?

• World-leading research: The University of Birmingham is ranked equal 10th in the UK amongst Russell Group universities in the Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021 according to the Times Higher Education
• Global ranking: The University of Birmingham was ranked in the Top 50 in the World for English Language & Literature by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. These rankings are compiled annually to help prospective students identify the leading universities worldwide in a particular subject.
• Excellent resources: We have many well-established resources to draw on, including those housed in the Cadbury Research Library, which holds approximately 120,000 pre-1850 books dating from 1471, and some 3 million manuscripts.
• Library facilities: The University’s Main Library also houses extensive research resources, with a large collection covering literature in general and English literature from Anglo-Saxon times to the present. This is supplemented by a growing drama and modern literature collection at the Orchard Learning Resource Centre in Selly Oak.
• Links with the Royal Shakespeare Company: Our students may benefit from the University’s collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC).

The postgraduate experience

The College of Arts and Law offers excellent support to its postgraduates, from libraries and research spaces, to careers support and funding opportunities. Learn more about your postgraduate experience .

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2024 entry are as follows:

• UK: £4,786 full-time; £2,393 part-time *
• International: £21,840 full-time; £10,920 part-time (distance learning only)

The same fees apply to both campus-based and distance learning study. The distance learning programme also includes one fully-funded visit to campus in the first year of study.

The above fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

* For UK postgraduate research students the University fee level is set at Research Council rates and as such is subject to change. The final fee will be announced by Research Councils UK in spring 2024.

Eligibility for UK or international fees can be verified with Admissions. Learn more about fees for international students .

Paying your fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding .

How To Apply

Application deadlines.

Postgraduate research can start at any time during the year, but it is important to allow time for us to review your application and communicate a decision. If you wish to start in September 2024, we would recommend that you aim to submit your application and supporting documents by 1 June 2024.

If the programme has a Distance learning option then students will usually attend a residential visit in September or January, and those students wishing to attend the September residential are also encouraged to apply by 1 June 2024. The visit will take place at the end of September/beginning of October and you will receive further details once you have accepted your offer.

Six steps to apply for our Postgraduate Research courses

Do you have an idea for an interesting research project? You can follow our six easy steps to apply to study for our postgraduate research courses . These include guidance on identifying funding opportunities and writing your research proposal .

Please also see our additional guidance for  applicants to the PhD Distance Learning study mode .

Please note: While our PhD programmes are normally studied in three years full-time or six years part-time, and Masters-level research programmes one year full-time or two years part-time, many programmes have a longer length listed in course or funding applications. This is because the course length is defined as the maximum period of registration, which includes a period of supervised study plus a thesis awaited period. The maximum period of registration for a full-time PhD is four years (three years supervision plus one year thesis awaited). For a full-time Masters-level research programme, it is two years (one year supervision plus one year thesis awaited). For part-time programmes, the periods are double the full-time equivalent.

• How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the research programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

Our requirements for postgraduate research are dependent on the type of programme you are applying for:

• For MRes and MA by Research programmes, entry to our programmes usually requires a good (normally a 2:1 or above) Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification if you were educated outside the UK, usually in a relevant area.
• Applicants for a PhD will also need to hold a Masters qualification at Merit level or above (or its international equivalent), usually in a relevant area.

Any academic and professional qualifications or relevant professional experience you may have are normally taken into account, and in some cases, form an integral part of the entrance requirements.

If you are applying for distance learning research programmes, you will also be required to demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities and experience to study by distance learning.

If your qualifications are non-standard or different from the entry requirements stated here, please contact the admissions tutor.

International students

IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 21 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 59 in all four skills
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component

Learn more about international entry requirements

International Requirements

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

Applicants who hold a Masters degree will be considered for admission to PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Diplomstudium/Magister or a Masters degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good post-2001 Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, or a GPA of 3 out of 4, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalár from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), or a good post-2002 Magistr (Masters), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters/ Magisterkonfereus/Magister Artium degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 75% from a recognised institution. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B, or a good one- or two-year Magistrikraad from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 4/5, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters/Maîtrise with a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, or a Magistère / Diplôme d'Etudes Approfondies / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures Specialisées / Mastère Specialis, from a recognised French university or Grande École to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5, or a good two-year Lizentiat / Aufbaustudium / Zweites Staatsexamen or a Masters degree from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10, from a recognised Greek university (AEI), and will usually be required to have completed a good Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis (Masters degree) from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés or Egyetemi Oklevel from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 3.5, or a good Mesterfokozat (Masters degree) or Egyetemi Doktor (university doctorate), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution, with 100 out of 110 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10, or a post-2000 Magistrs, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a score of 16/20 or 80% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, or a good post-2001 Magistras, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, or a Diplôme d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées (comparable to a UK PGDip) or Masters degree from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from the University of Malta with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons), and/or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise and a Masters degree, with a score of 14/20 or 70% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10, and/or a good Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters, Mastergrad, Magister. Artium, Sivilingeniør, Candidatus realium or Candidatus philologiae degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with a CGPA of 3.0/4 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Bachiller, Licenciado, or Título Profesional with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good pre-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4 out of 5, dobry ‘good’, and/or a good Swiadectwo Ukonczenia Studiów Podyplomowych (Certificate of Postgraduate Study) or post-2001 Magister from a recognised Polish university with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus 'better than good', will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, and/or a good Mestrado / Mestre (Masters) from a recognised university, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10, and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree/Diploma de Master/Diploma de Studii Academice Postuniversitare (Postgraduate Diploma - Academic Studies) or Diploma de Studii Postuniversitare de Specializare (Postgraduate Diploma - Specialised Studies) to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) or Диплом Магистра (Magistr) degree from recognised universities in Russia (minimum GPA of 4.0) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/PhD study.

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’, and/or a good Inžinier or a post-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10, and/or a good Diploma specializacija (Postgraduate Diploma) or Magister (Masters) will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 7 out of 10 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and will usually be required to have completed a Masters degree, with 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution to be considered for entry. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good "PostGraduate Certificate" or "PostGraduate Diploma" or a Masters degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) may be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 3.0/4.0, 3.5/5 or 75% from a recognised institution to be considered. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for entry to our postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree or Mphil from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Applicants for postgraduate research programmes should hold a good Bachelors degree / Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised Ukrainian higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence and will usually be required to have completed a good Masters degree to be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes. Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Research in the Department of English Literature takes place across medieval, early modern, eighteenth century, nineteenth century, and modern and contemporary literature and culture. The diverse research interests and approaches of the department ensure a vibrant and dynamic research community.

Please contact a staff member working in your area of interest in the first instance. A summary of our key research areas, and staff working within those, can be found below.

• Medieval literature
• Early modern literature
• Eighteenth century literature
• Nineteenth century literature
• Modern and contemporary literature and culture    

Department of English Literature  Research Centres

The University of Birmingham is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits, according to The Graduate Market 2024 report .

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University's Careers Network  provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated  careers and employability team  who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

• Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
• Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
• Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
• Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV

What’s more, you will be able to access our full range of careers support for up to 2 years after graduation.

Postgraduate employability: English Literature

Birmingham's English Literature postgraduates develop a range of skills including presentation, communication and analytical skills, as well as the ability to work independently, think critically and develop opinions.

Many of our graduates go on to further study or academia, while others use their transferable skills in a wide variety of occupations including copywriting, project management, publishing and teaching.

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PhD Programme

• MA in English
• MA in Literature and Publishing
• Visiting Students
• Creative Writing
• Careers with English
• Postgraduate Funding
• NEW*** PhD Scholarship in Digital Arts and Humanities – Call for Applications

Studying for a PhD in English at University of Galway enables you to undertake a major original research project within the field of literary studies. As you work together with a primary supervisor from the discipline, a Graduate Research Committee of complementary expertise supports your progress.

  Our four year Structured PhD programme represents a exceptional opportunity to allow researchers to enhance their work on a primary thesis by taking modules from across the university to enhance their research skills and professional development. Many hundreds of course modules are on offer from a huge variety of fields, with specialist courses in historical periods, research skills, languages old and new, and critical theories proving very popular. In exceptional circumstances some students may proceed with a purely research full-time or part-time PhD without access to these programmes.

  Over your years of study the chief focus is on preparing a doctoral thesis, typically consisting of an academic dissertation of up to 80,000 words. Researchers are encouraged to develop skills in presenting research papers at conferences, and preparing work for publication. Many researchers also grasp the excellent opportunities for undergraduate teaching,

  Choosing a practice-based PhD programme allows for the inclusion of non-traditional elements within the PhD thesis, such as a collection of short stories or creative non-fiction, alongside a reflective approach to writing practice. Our thriving Digital Humanities programme collaborates with four partner Irish universities and INSIGHT , University of Galway’s digital hub.

Why Study this Programme? PhD study represents the chance to explore a range of ideas, texts, arguments, and cultural developments in great depth. If you are interested in reading, writing, and the detailed analysis of literature and culture, and keen to explore the intellectual and personal development PhDs can bring, you will find a home at University of Galway. The Discipline of English has an exemplary track record in guiding students to successful funding applications .

New researchers join a thriving community of postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers . Stunning state-of-the-art research facilities at the  Moore Institute  and  Hardiman Research Building  (featuring research hubs and individual workstations for all researchers) provide a home for new ideas and make cross-disciplinary collaboration routine. Researchers participate in a programme of seminars, research days, performances, conferences, symposiums, and invited speakers on campus. Workshops prepare researchers for international conferences and give advice on writing, teaching, and publishing.

  The James Hardiman Library is host to exceptional archive collections providing the foundation for numerous innovative doctoral research projects. Rare books, scholarly journals, and microfilms are enhanced by subscriptions to global online journals and resources, so students have instant access to the latest and best research.

  Career Opportunities Employers increasingly value creativity above all other qualities in the workforce. PhD researchers in English study at firsthand the processes of creativity, and evaluate how language performs in social and political contexts. PhD study develops high-level skills in critical thinking, research, data analysis, communication, and information/project management. Many PhD graduates proceed to third-level teaching and research, and many find success in publishing, media, advertising, and public service, as well as in the ICT, business, and financial sectors.

  Areas of Interest Research activity in the   Discipline of English   extends from sexuality to technology, embracing many periods and methodologies from early manuscript studies and book history to new media landscapes and digital poetics. Keynotes of our approach are interdisciplinarity, textuality, and cultural exchange. Our researchers are very keen to discuss possibilities for doctoral study in their areas of interest . 

Visit University of Galway's  Courses page  for information on how to apply, entry requirements and assessment.

We welcome prospective researchers in English at University of Galway, You will find outstanding research facilities and a great record of securing funding. We would be delighted to hear more about your research ideas, and we urge prospective applicants to discuss their plans with a member of staff with appropriate areas of interest before submitting their application.

  Studying for a PhD thesis is a challenging but rewarding choice for study. Your work is supported chiefly by a primary supervisor from the discipline of English. Alongside your supervisor, a Graduate Research Committee of complementary expertise drawn from across the university supports your studies and helps to assess and progress your work.

  A PhD thesis is expected to make a substantial and original contribution to its field of knowledge. The PhD degree is awarded for work that is 'worthy of publication, in whole or in part, as a work of serious scholarship' (University of Galway Calendar). The length of the thesis in English is normally up to 80,000 words. The duration of research is usually four years: in a Structured PhD programme this includes courses to support your primary research. At the close of your research you will defend your thesis in a viva voce examination.

  The minimum qualification necessary to be considered for admission to the PhD programme is a high honours primary degree, or 'other such evidence as will satisfy the Head of Department and the Faculty of his/her fitness' (University of Galway Calendar). It is more usual, however, for successful applicants to have already gained a Master's degree.

Applying to do research in English

  Download a pdf of our  Application Guide to Research in English.

Applications to all postgraduate programmes in English are made online via  Ellucian Recruit Login .  You will need an active email account to use the application website, and will be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form. You will be asked to enter the course code for each programme you apply for.  Applicants should normally apply for a Structured PhD rather than a Full-time PhD or MLitt, unless permission is sought from the department. Structured PhDs allow you to take further courses to help your study. Your application includes the following: the title of your proposal, curriculum vitae details (including your qualifications and personal information), copies of degree certificates (if not currently held by the university), and two independent  academic references , which are submitted directly in confidence by the referees concerned. You must also submit a sample of academic writing . This might be a recent MA course  essay or chapter from an MA thesis; it might be a published piece of work. Our practice-based PhDs are divided equally between academic and practice-based work, so for these courses in addition you should submit a sample of creative writing , whether a group of poems, short story, piece of creative non-fiction, or other representative work.

  All applicants must submit a 1500 word  research proposal . The proposal should be structured under the following headings.

1. Title 2. Description of proposed research (800 words) 3. Critical context (350 words) 4. Methodology (250 words) 5. Sources and archives (100 words)

Admission is at the discretion of the Postgraduate Research Committee in the discipline, which assesses all applications. The success of your application depends on a number of factors: the quality and viability of your proposal, the standard of writing displayed, your qualifications and achievements to date, referees’ reports, and the availability of appropriate supervision. The postgraduate research committee in English considers the application at several opportunities throughout the year and its decision is final.

For more details contact the Director of Graduate Research in English:

Dr Frances McCormack Discipline of English School of English & Creative Arts University of Galway [email protected]

NUI Regulations on Submission and Formatting of PhD Theses You should become familiar with the National University of Ireland regulations for PhD theses. You will find these in the University of Galway General Calendar, or you may obtain them directly from the Registrar, National University of Ireland, 49 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.

University of Galway English has an excellent track-record of securing scholarships and receiving funding awards. Funding for PhD study is provided by many sources, including Hardiman Research Fellowships, Galway Doctoral Scholarships from the College of Arts, and externally from funding bodies like the Irish Research Council and the National University of Ireland. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact potential supervisors and the Director of Graduate Research as early as possible in the process. Once you are a registered PhD student at University of Galway there are also excellent opportunities available for travel bursaries and study abroad opportunities.

  The outstanding record of English in securing funding for postgraduate research transpires because full discussions are had with prospective candidates. If you are thinking of applying to funding bodies you must contact the Director of Graduate Research and your potential supervisor in the discipline to discuss and formulate the application. Clinching funding for study at University of Galway often depends upon a good fit between the project proposed and the university. For further information regarding collections and archives at the James Hardiman Library see http://www.library.nuigalway.ie

Funding opportunities for PhD study

The following provides a few common options for funding PhD research in English. For more information about funding opportunities and scholarships you should consult the university funding page and consider signing up to research professional .

Irish Research Council The Irish Research Council (IRC) is funded by the Government of Ireland and provides generous but competitive funding awards for PhD and postdoctoral research in all subjects. English at University of Galway has an outstanding record of successful funding through the scheme, but it should be stressed that the application process is intensive, and you should seek discussions with the discipline as early as possible. Calls and deadlines occur early in the academic year, usually by November of the year before study commences. Click here for details

Hardiman Scholarships These prestigious and generous scholarships provided by University of Galway match IRC funding and are named in honour of literary scholar, poet, and librarian James Hardiman. They apply to all fields of study and are very competitive, with applications followed by interviews. The application deadline is early in the academic year, with funding calls open in September and closing in November.   http://universityofgalway.ie/hardiman-scholarships/

Galway Doctoral Research Scholarships Funded through the College of Arts and the School of Humanities, Galway Doctoral Research Scholarships provide excellent opportunities for prospective scholars. The funding is competitive and applications usually close in early June. http://universityofgalway.ie/colleges-and-schools/arts-social-sciences-and-celtic-studies/phd-research-degrees/scholarships/index.html

National University of Ireland The National University of Ireland offers a range of doctoral scholarships, travelling studentships, and postdoctoral fellowships for study at universities in Ireland and abroad. These awards are competitive and deadlines vary. http://www.nui.ie/awards/

Student Support Especially if you have been in receipt of a student support grant during your BA degree, in some cases you may be eligible for grants towards a postgraduate degree. More information and eligibility criteria can be found at Student Universal Support Ireland https://susi.ie . For policies consult the Higher Education Authority http://www.hea.ie

University of Galway Further Education University of Galway is committed to supporting those that work for the university to undertake educational programmes to enhance their professional or personal development. In some cases this includes PhD study. To find out more consult the University of Galway Further Education Policy http://universityofgalway.ie/media/stafftraining/FEP-Scheme.pdf

Funding for current PhD students

Travel Bursaries All registered postgraduate students in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies are eligible to apply for a travel bursary to assist them in their research. These bursaries are awarded annually; application forms are normally available in the early spring. Details and dates are available from the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies .

Study Abroad Opportunities There are many study abroad opportunities available for students at University of Galway. There are also opportunities for students abroad to study here. For more contact the International Office. http://universityofgalway.ie/international-students/

Ireland Canada University Foundation If you are a PhD student or post-doctoral academic in the early stages of your research career, you may be eligible for the Flaherty Research Scholarship . This award supports a short research visit of four to six weeks, and is designed to help scholars make contacts with researchers working in related research topics, with a view to widening and deepening the scholar’s research horizons, ideally leading to continued collaboration in future research. The James M. Flaherty Program is provided with the assistance of the Government of Canada , via the International Education Division of Global Affairs Canada, and with the assistance of the Irish Government , via the Emigrant Support Programme, administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs. http://www.icuf.ie/scholarships/

Study Abroad at University of California   University of Galway is a partner with the University of California for study abroad. Reciprocal exchange students can attend the University of California for up to one academic year on a no-fee-exchange, non-degree basis. UC is the major public research university in the state of California serving both undergraduate and graduate students. There are ten campus locations: Berkeley, Davis, Irvine, Los Angeles, Merced, Riverside, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, San Diego and San Francisco. http://eap.ucop.edu/ReciprocalExchanges/Pages/default.aspx

If you are thinking of applying for funding, or for more details on the university or funding opportunities please contact the Director of Graduate Research in English:

Dr Frances McCormack Discipline of English School of English & Creative Arts University of Galway

[email protected]

PhD Scholarship in Digital Arts and Humanities – Call for Applications

University of Galway invites applications for a four-year structured PhD scholarship in Digital Arts & Humanities to commence in September 2017.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 14 April 2017 . Applications are made via Ellucian Recruit Login  (see below).

The Structured PhD in Digital Arts & Humanities at University of Galway is a full-time four-year interdisciplinary programme from which seven students have graduated since its inception in 2011. This PhD programme provides fourth-level researchers with the platform, structures, partnerships, and innovation models to engage and collaborate with a wide range of academics and practitioners. Our ambition is for students to contribute to the developing digital arts and humanities community world-wide. The programme welcomes proposals on the use of digital tools and methodologies in the scholarly analysis of cultural texts and phenomena, and on practice-based research in digital art and media. Students will gain exposure to transferable skills in digital content creation and analysis that are academically and professionally beneficial.

See http://mooreinstitute.ie/2017/02/01/phd-scholarship-digital-arts-humanities-call-applications/ for further details

Undergraduate Prospectus 2024 PDF (14.6MB)

Postgraduate Prospectus 2024 PDF (3.3MB)

Quick Guide to Courses 2024 PDF (1.20MB)

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PhD English Literature: Course Details, Eligibility, Admission, Fees

PhD English Literature is a full-time research degree that deals to impart students with the required theoretical background and research skills. After completion of the PhD in English Literature in India, the graduates can work as Writers, Academic Librarians, Advertising Account Executive, Advertising Copywriter, Arts Administrator, Information Officer etc.

PhD English Literature Course Details

About PhD English Literature

This course is ideal for students who are interested in studying literature written in the English language. The course falls under the umbrella of PhD.

According to Wikipedia, " Literature written in the English language includes many countries such as the United Kingdom and its crown dependencies, Republic of Ireland, the United States, and the countries of the former British Empire. The English language has developed over the course of more than 1,400 years.”

Table of Contents

• PhD English Literature Eligibility Criteria
• PhD English Literature Admission Process
• Popular PhD English Literature Entrance Exams
• Top PhD English Literature Colleges
• Fees Structure for PhD English Literature

Syllabus and Subjects for PhD English Literature

• Why Choose a PhD English Literature?

Preparation Tips for PhD English Literature

• PhD English Literature Salary

Career Options After PhD English Literature

• Skills to Excel

Eligibility Criteria for PhD English Literature

The minimum eligibility for PhD English Literature is a master's degree in the English language with a minimum of 55% aggregate in the discipline passed from a recognized university. In some colleges, M.Phil is a prerequisite for PhD English Literature admission. Selection of the candidates for admission in PhD is done on the basis of entrance examination or merit. There is no age limit for the course.

How To Get Admission in a PhD English Literature?

To get admitted into the best universities for PhD English Literature, students must ensure that they satisfy the eligibility criteria. The admission to PhD in an English Literature course is generally on the basis of an entrance exam which is followed by a personal interview round conducted at the university or the college. Mentioned below are the general guidelines for the admission process:

How to Apply?

PhD English Literature eligibility information for admission can be found on the college's official websites, where the students should apply. Candidates can either reach the official website of the institute or can reach out to the office of the institute to fill out the application form. Candidates need to fill out the application form and upload all the necessary documents which are asked in the form.

Selection Process

Admission is strictly offered to only those candidates who clear the minimum cut-off. After completion of the process of application, go for the counselling round and attend the personal interview round to get your desired college. And the interview decides whether the candidate is allotted a seat or not.

Who Should Pursue a PhD English Literature?

The PhD in English Literature should be pursued by aspirants who are interested in pursuing the field of literature and history of the English language. since it is a doctorate course, it is vital for the students to be interested in the field of research. 

When To Do PhD English Literature?

Ideally, students should pursue a PhD in English Literature upon the completion of their Master's/M.Phil in English. Students with work experience in the field of research and writing would have an advantage over their peers. Students must also ensure that they give the required entrance exam when pursuing this course.

Types of PhD English Literature

Given below are the types of PhD English Literature programs that the students can enrol in:

Full-Time PhD English Literature

A full-time PhD English Literature course lasts between three to six years. In this course, the students are expected to go to the universities and attend the classes in person. This type of curiculum provides students with a lot of exposure and experience.

Part-Time PhD English Literature

A part-time PhD English Literature course is designed for students who can't attend full-time classes. These classes are often conducted on weekends or later in the evenings to accommodate these students. The benefit of this form of class is that the students get time to invest time in gaining work experience and their personal endeavours. 

Distance PhD English Literature

The Distance PhD English Literature course is designed for students who can't even attend part-time classes due to reasons such as location or work. In this format, most of the classes are conducted online and students are only expected to come on-site during exams.

Popular Entrance Exams for PhD English Literature

The applicants need to qualify for the entrance examination conducted by UGC or state to secure a seat in top PhD English Literature colleges in India. Some of the top entrance exams applicable for M.Phil programs are:

A Quick Glance at the PhD English Literature Entrance Exams

To get into the top PhD English Literature college in India, a candidate should clear the test. To prepare for the entrance exams, the candidates should know the course details, the syllabus, and the question pattern, and should prepare according to them. The exam for PhD English Literature consists of a syllabus of English only except for GATE.

• The exam pattern is divided into objective and subjective type questions with a total of 100 marks and total time duration of 2 to 3 hours.
• The questions are asked from topics related to the Victorian period, Modern period, Contemporary period, Modern British Literature etc.
• The examination is subjective in nature and is designed to assess a candidate’s analytical and critical thinking abilities.

Top 10 PhD English Literature Colleges in India

Students can opt for the top government colleges for PhD English Literature in India or most premium colleges in India depending upon their ranking. Here is the list of top 10 colleges for PhD English Literature in India for aspirants' reference:

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in New Delhi

India’s capital city is home to some of the best institutions for PhD English Literature in India. Check the table below for the top PhD English Literature colleges in New Delhi:

Read More: PhD Colleges in Delhi

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in Pune

Pune also has some of the best institutions for PhD English Literature in India. Check the table below for the top PhD English Literature colleges in Pune:

Read More: PhD Colleges in Pune

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in Chennai

Tamil Nadu’s capital city is home to some of the premier institutions for PhD English Literature in India. Check the table below for the best PhD English Literature colleges in Chennai:

Read More: PhD Colleges in Chennai

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in Bangalore

The capital city of Karnataka is renowned around the country for colleges offering top PhD English Literature programmes. Check the table below for the best PhD English Literature colleges in India:

Read More: PhD Colleges in Bangalore

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in Kolkata

West Bengal’s capital city, Kolkata, has some of the best colleges for PhD English Literature courses in India. Check the table below for the best PhD English Literature colleges in Kolkata:

Read More: PhD Colleges in Kolkata

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in Hyderabad

The Telangana state capital has some premier institutions in the country for PhD English Literature courses in India. Check the table below for the top PhD English Literature colleges in Hyderabad:

Read More: PhD Colleges in Hyderabad

Top PhD English Literature Government Colleges

There are several top Government Colleges offering quality PhD English Literature programmes across the country. Check the table below for the top PhD English Literature government colleges in India:

Top PhD English Literature Private Colleges

India has seen significant growth in the number of quality PhD English Literature private colleges that offer some of the best programmes in the country. Check the table below for the top PhD English Literature private colleges in India:

Study PhD English Literature Abroad

There are many colleges abroad that provide students with an opportunity to study PhD English Literature. Given below are the top colleges according to the country.

Top PhD English Literature Colleges Abroad

The table below contains the list of some of the best colleges abroad for PhD English Literature:

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in USA

The USA is home to some of the best universities and colleges offering top-notch PhD English Literature programmes in the world. The table below contains the list of top PhD English Literature colleges in the USA:

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in the UK

The UK has institutions that date back to the 13th century. This makes the UK one of the best destinations for pursuing a PhD English Literature. The table below shows the top colleges in the UK for PhD English Literature:

Top PhD English Literature Colleges in Canada

Known as the ‘Great White North’, Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for PhD English Literature programmes in the world:

Fee Structure for PhD English Literature

The average PhD English Literature fee is around INR 10,000 to INR 2 LPA depending on the colleges or the universities offering PhD English Literature in India. The fees may vary according to the college or university based on the type of institute, location, infrastructure, faculties, and facilities available. Listed below is an average annual fee for some colleges:

The PhD English Literature is a full-time research degree and may be awarded after three to four years of supervised independent research on the basis of a thesis not exceeding 50,000 words exclusive of bibliography, table of contents and any other preliminary matter.

PhD English Literature duration of three to five years. The course involves the study of the English language and Literature from all parts of the world, their origin, their analysis etc. Some of the compulsory subjects are:

• Modes of Writing
• Critical Essays
• Victorian Literature
• American Literature
• Women’s Writings
• Creative Writing
• English Poetry

Read More: PhD English Literature Syllabus and Subjects

Why Choose PhD English Literature?

Students often wonder about PhD English Literature details before choosing the course. Before deciding on a career, students come across queries like, "What is PhD English Literature course?" and "Why choose PhD English Literature?”. To clearly understand the answers to these questions, we have framed the following three pointers:

What is PhD English Literature All About?

PhD English Literature courses in India is a three years full-time doctorate programme within the field of English. This course includes various types of writing, including novels, non-fiction, poetry, and plays. It also includes texts like poetry, drama, prose fiction etc.

What Does a PhD English Literature Graduate Do?

English is a vast and exciting area that is chosen by a large number of students. Yet after graduation, the career path is rather unclear, largely because there is so much to do with a literature degree. Although, it makes one eligible for Lecturers in private universities, and colleges across India.

Professor: A Professor teaches students studying at UG or PG level and ensures that they learn the language properly. They can teach English or drama to students. Many of the teachers conduct research alongside teaching the students.

Reasons Why PhD English Literature Can Fetch You a Rewarding Career?

The completion of a PhD English Literature degree program is a notable achievement and is valued very highly both inside and outside of academia.

Career Scope and Options: Students after the successful completion of a PhD program have a large opportunity to explore various areas of professional life. They can work in Media Houses, Publishing Houses, Educational Institutions, Print Agencies etc. Candidates can also write their own books, novels or stories or can write for museums or art galleries. They can also work as Lexicographers which means they will have an opportunity to write, compile or edit a dictionary.

Read More: PhD English Literature Jobs & Scope

PhD English Literature Course Comparison

PhD English Literature stands for Doctor of Philosophy in English Literature and is typically catered to students interested in and inclined towards humanities and social sciences. Below is a comparison of the PhD English Literature course with other courses:

PhD English Literature vs M.Phil English

The table below showcases the differences between PhD English Literature and M.Phil English:

Having a PhD English Literature degree opens thriving career opportunities. Some tips for entrance exams are:

Get To Know The Syllabus: The syllabus of the course is something that a student should know, this helps the student to know how to perform at the time of the examination.

Study The Current Affairs: Updating Current affairs regularly also helps in preparing for some of the subjects of the course.

Practice Makes Perfect: Go through  all the subjects and the modules that are taught during the duration of the course.

Salary of a PhD English Literature Graduate

The salary of a PhD holder will differ with field and position. As a fresher, the average salary ranges around INR 2 - 4.5 LPA. It will increase up to INR 5 - 12 LPA [Source: Glassdoor], depending upon your skills and experience. Experience and skills will increase the job scope. And for a Professor, government colleges will provide a salary of INR 5.8 LPA [Source: Glassdoor].

Read More: PhD English Literature Salary

There are a lot of career opportunities available for candidates who wish to pursue PhD English Literature. After completing of PhD English Literature, the graduates can work as Assistant professors in different universities. Here are some job positions available after graduating in literature:

• Academic Librarians
• Advertising Account Executive
• Advertising Copywriter
• Arts Administrator
• Information Officer
• Journalists

Skills That Make You The Best PhD English Literature Graduate

It is a doctorate-level course and deals with research in English literature from all around the world. The main objective of the course includes researching Literature written in the English language. Must-have skills are:

• Analytical Thinking
• Critical Thinking
• Good Management Skills
• Good Organizational Skills
• Research and Problem Solving Skills
• Strategic Communication Skills

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Ph.D. in English

• Ph.D (English)

Course Overview

A Ph.D. in English is a doctoral degree program that focuses on the advanced study of literature, language, and writing in the English language. The program is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in academia, research, or other fields where advanced knowledge of English is required.

During the course of the program, students engage in intensive research, writing, and critical analysis of literature and language. They are expected to develop a deep understanding of the theory and practice of literary and linguistic analysis, and to contribute original research to the field.

A typical Ph.D. program in English takes 3 years to complete, depending on the student's research focus and progress. The program typically involves coursework, comprehensive exams, and the completion of a dissertation, which is an original research project that contributes to the field of English studies.

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in English have the opportunity to specialize in a variety of areas, such as literary theory, cultural studies, creative writing, rhetoric and composition, and linguistics. They may also choose to focus on a particular genre or time period in literature, such as Shakespearean studies or modernist literature.

Graduates of a Ph.D. program in English are well-positioned to pursue careers in academia, research, publishing, and other fields where advanced knowledge of the English language is required. They may also choose to pursue careers in writing, editing, and other fields related to literature and language.

• Admision Process Know More
• Course Detail Know More
• Fee Strucuture Know More

Designed to Produce English Stalwarts

At gla university, we emphasize education beyond classrooms with project-based learning to ensure our students imbibe what the industry requires..

to incubate start-up ideas of students

with equal emphasis on literature & general English

with compulsory assignments as part of curriculum

with live projects

for premium placements of the students

up to Rs. 55 LPA

CAREER PATHS AFTER Ph.D. in ENGLISH

A doctorate degree in english is the most revered education across diverse industries and government departments..

• Press Agencies   
• State Government Jobs
• Educational Institutions  
• Nationalized Government Banks
• Indian Space Research Organization
• DRDO & many more

• The Times of India
• Republic India
• NDTV English
• Private Educational Institutes

• Research Projects
• Preparation for Jobs in Academics

WHERE GLAdiators WORK

In the placements of previous year, over 3000 gladiators have bagged offers from top recruiters from the industry..

0 LPA Highest CTC

0 + Top Recruiters

Why Ph.D. in English?

Students with a doctorate degree in English have diverse career options to explore in different fields. Tourism, Sports, Media, Event Management, Engineering, Education, etc., are some sectors where they majorly nurture.

Ph.D. degree holders acquire the following positions:

Journalists

Content Writers

Research Paper Writers

Public Relation Officers

Event Managers

Technical Writer

LET’S ENROLL

Eligibility.

Candidates for admission to the Ph.D program shall have 55% marks in Master's degree for the admission in Applied Science & Humanities (Biotechnology, Applied Physics, Applied Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, and English), Law, Management and Education. However, 60% marks in Master's degree remaining Courses (Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering & Application, Electrical Engineering, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Pharmaceutical Sciences).

ACADEMIC FEE

• 1st Year : 70,000/- INR
• 2nd Year : 70,000/- INR
• 3rd Year : 70,000/- INR

Register At https://glauniversity.in:8085/ Main/Admission

Application Fee After filling out your details, pay the application fee

Entrance Test Appear for entrance test conducted by university/ UGC/ CSIR

Result of Entrance Test Qualify the Ph.D. Entrance Test

Pay the token amount After qualifying the admission criteria, pay the token amount

Upload Documents Uploading the documents is the last step of admission process

Admission Process

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Postgraduate study

Choose from a range of taught and research-led programmes, from one-year masters degrees to PhDs.

What's it like to study here?

As the oldest department of English Literature in the UK, based in one of the largest and most diverse Schools in the University of Edinburgh, we are the ideal place for postgraduate study.

Our interdisciplinary environment brings together specialists in all periods and genres of literature with experts in theatre, creative writing and playwriting.  Working with colleagues elsewhere in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures, and across the wider University, we are able to support research which crosses boundaries between disciplines and/or languages.

You’ll be immersed in a world of learning, with lots of opportunities to participate in our postgraduate community beyond your own study. Events range from talks by visiting speakers and work-in-progress seminars, to reading groups, conferences, workshops, performances, online journals and forums, many of which are student-led. Highlights include annual industry event The Business, the publication of our Creative Writing students' work in From Arthur's Seat, and the judging of the James Tait Black Prizes, in which students play a key role.

Our graduates tell us that they value LLC’s friendliness, the connections they make here and the in-depth guidance they receive from our staff, who are experts in their field. Between LLC, the Careers Service and the Institute for Academic Development, you’ll find a range of programmes and resources to help you develop your postgraduate skills, as well as having access to the University’s fantastic libraries, collections and worldwide strategic partnerships.

What can I study?

Taught masters (msc) programmes.

A taught masters (MSc) programme is an excellent opportunity to strengthen your existing skills, develop new ones, and sharpen your focus on the aspects of your subject that interest you most. Usually completed over one year (if studying full-time), these programmes typically comprise a combination of core and optional courses taught by specialists in the field, training in research methods, coursework, and an independent dissertation.

Browse our range of taught postgraduate programmes

Masters by Research (MScR) programmes

Ideal if you have a clear idea of the independent research you wish to undertake, a Masters (MSc) by Research programme is usually completed over one year (if studying full-time). You'll attend taught classes and complete coursework, receiving training in research methods, and write a 15-000 word dissertation under expert supervision. We offer a range of specialisms within English and Scottish Literature.

Browse our Masters by Research programmes

PhD (doctoral) programmes

Doctorate-level study is an opportunity to expand upon your interests and expertise in a community that really values research; and to make an original, positive contribution to learning in literature and related fields. Over the course of your PhD, you’ll be expected to complete an original body of work under the expert guidance of your supervisors leading to a dissertation of between 70,000 and 100,000 words (for a research-based project) or of an equivalent scale for work in creative writing.

Full-time, three years (all students) ꟾ part-time, six years (eligibility criteria apply)

Find out more about our PhDs in English Literature and Creative Writing

Not sure which programme is right for you?

We're happy to help you decide between taught and research-led programmes.

Email us about postgraduate study in English Literature 

Are you currently studying with us?

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Where to next?

Postgraduate study in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures

Funding for postgraduate study in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures

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Know More About Ph.D In English

Know more about the courses.

The English Unit under the School of Humanities, Management, and SocialSciences is one of the most prospering departments of The Neotia University. The teaching, research & extension-oriented unit has several well-equipped research facilities for conducting research and analysis, which makes the department a perfect place for pursuing a Doctoral Studies PhD in English Literature , languages, linguistics, and allied arts and social sciences. The experienced faculty members of the department work in close collaboration with the Doctoral students, enabling a holistic and enriching research ecosystem in the field of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Application Form for Ph.D. Admission

Application Guidelines for Ph.D. Admission

Ph.D. Program Fee Structure

Ph.D. Admission Ad Design

CAREER PROSPECTS

Candidates with a Ph.D degree may start their career as Assistant Professor, Social Scientist, Subject Matter Expert etc. in universities/colleges/research institutesin government and private organisations.Candidates might pursue a post-doctoral research in India and abroad. There is a good scope for Ph.D holders to start their career as an entrepreneur in education

technology.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

A Ph.D, or Doctor of Philosophy degree, is considered as one of the most advanced degrees available at any modern research university. The degree in this department involves updated, relevant and holistic research in the sub-fields of English Literature, English Language, Communication Studies, Criticism and Critical Theory, Digital Humanities, Literature and the Environment,

Literature and the Other Arts, Cultural Studies, Translation Studies, Discourse Analysis, Indian Writings in English, and so on. At the end of this degree, students will learn to study and appreciate literature, languages, linguistics and allied arts and social sciences – both as a creative process, as well as a knowledge-system, embedded in the network of cultural capitals. Students shall also be in a position to publish their original thoughts, perspectives and relevant research findings in reputed refereed academic journals.

ADMISSION PROCEDURE

Applications shall be invited through announcements by the university. The interested applicant/s may submit the application for admission in Ph. D program in English to the Registrar’s Office of the university. The Research and Development (R&D)Committee of the university shall get in touch with the Controller of Examination Section to conduct the admission entrance test (written

mode). In the entrance test, 50% questions shall be set from Research Methodology and the other 50% questions shall be set from the relevant subject domains. The qualified candidates shall then be called for a Personal Interview.The qualified candidate mightthen be considered for enrolment in the Ph. D program in the English Unit of the university.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Scholar’s research progress shall be evaluated time to time by the advisory committee created for the individual research scholar. The advisory committee shall suggest ways to improve the quality of research work of the said scholar. The advisory committee shall be made by considering four faculty members (chairperson, co-chairperson/convener, external subject-matter expert and

departmental nominee). The report of the advisory committee shall be submitted to the R&D committee. The R&D committee shall keep the records and shall forward the same to the Controller of Examination (CoE). The advisory committee shall be following the Ph.D guidelines of The Neotia University while functioning further.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Dr.KoelMitra, 0 98303 29445 Email:  [email protected]
• Dr.Debobani Biswas, 0 97323 70358 Email:  [email protected]

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Minimum Qualifications for admission to Full-time PhD Programmes

Table 1 defines the minimum qualifications required for admission to full-time Ph. D. programmes at IIT Delhi. Please note:

These are Institute minimum requirements and any Department/Centre/School operating through their DRC/CRC/SRC can specify higher short-listing criteria than what is specified here.

This table includes most of the degrees, but each DRC/CRC/SRC is free to specify the qualifications and disciplines acceptable for admission to their programmes.

Candidates in the final year of their programmes and who expect to complete all their qualifying degree requirements before the date of registration are also eligible to apply for admissions. For short-listing purposes, their performance until the preceding semester (preceding year if their programmes are year based) would be considered but their admission would be provisional, subject to their meeting the minimum eligibility criteria after their final qualifying examination results are announced. In any case, all admissions are provisional at first and it is confirmed only after all certificates and previous records are duly checked and verified, a process which may take a few weeks into the starting semester.

Table 1: Minimum Qualification for Admission to full-time PhD Programmes

Exemptions, relaxations and clarifications:

For SC/ST/PwD category candidates , the minimum performance in the qualifying degree (S. No. 1 & 2 in Table 1) is relaxed from 60% to 55% (CGPA relaxed from 6.00 to 5.50).

For SC/ST/PwD category candidates , the minimum performance in the qualifying degree (Sr. No.3 in Table 1) is relaxed from 70% to 65% (CGPA relaxed from 7.00 to 6.50).

Qualifying degree performance is computed by aggregating performance over all the semesters/years of the qualifying degree, as per the credit or weightage system approved in the institution/ board where the degree has been completed.

Requirement of qualification in GATE / National Exam is waived for the following categories of applicants:

Currently registered students in Centrally Funded Technical Institutes (CFTIs) pursuing B.Tech./B.E./ Integrated M. Tech/ Integrated M.Sc. Programmes (or any other programme of minimum four year duration, admission to which is on the basis of JEE), who have completed 6 semesters or more, and have CGPA of 8.00 or above (on a 10 point scale). Such students must obtain a CGPA of 8.00 or above at the time of graduation, and before they formally register for the Ph.D. programme (80% aggregate marks, if marks are the primary mode of evaluation);

Graduates of CFTIs (in the programmes marked under (i)) with a final graduation CGPA of more than 8.00 (80% aggregate marks, if marks are the primary mode of evaluation);

M.A or M.Sc. graduates from IITs with CGPA 8.00 or above.

For purposes of shortlisting, the primary method of evaluation (i.e., CGPA/CPI, or aggregate percentage, whichever is appropriate) followed by the institution where candidate has obtained his/her qualifying degree will be used by IIT Delhi for determining whether the candidate meets the final shortlisting requirements.

For assistantship purposes only (and not for qualification), candidates with M.B.B.S. qualification will be considered equivalent to M. Tech., for admission to Ph.D. programme in Centre for Biomedical Engineering;

For candidates with M.A. degree in English, a 5% relaxation in marks or 0.5 relaxation in CGPA may be permitted for admission to the Ph.D. programme in Humanities and Social Sciences;

Candidates holding an MBA degree are eligible for applying to the Ph.D. programme in the Department of Management Studies.

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Ph.D. in English: Overview, Course, Eligibility Criteria, Admission, Syllabus, Fees, Scope, Result and Cutoffs, & FAQs

Best Ph.D. in English Colleges in India 2023: The Ph.D. in English stands for Doctor of Philosophy in English, which is completed within 3 to 5 years. The course is ideal for those candidates who wish to learn literature subjects in an English-translated language. The English Ph.D. degree will make you well-versed in major fields of English such as world literature, dialogue delivery, ancient literature, dialects, translations, and technical writing like drama, poetry, fiction, and prose. Candidates need to have a minimum aggregate score of 55% in their academics as well as should have post graduate or master’s degree I.e, MA in English or M. Phill before applying for Ph.D. in English program. You can make 4 to 6 lakhs salary per annum and that increases based on your expertise, knowledge, and dialogue delivery. Students can get into the creative writing, and corporate sector as well as in universities and colleges after completing their Ph.D. degree in English. Technical Writer, Journalist, Critic Writer, Translator Public Relations Officer, are some of the job roles after completing an English Ph.D. In this article, you’re going to learn everything about a Ph.D. in English degree including its salary structure, recruiters lists, degree scope, top colleges, etc.

Course Highlights

Also Read:  Top Engineering Colleges in India

Eligibility Criteria

All the aspirants need to meet the following eligibility criteria before being admitted to the best university for Ph.D. in English in India –

• All the candidates must have at least 55% aggregate marks in their academics, bachelor’s as well as a master’s degree. Scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other backward classes people get 5% relief on this.
• Postgraduate or master’s degrees should be either Masters of arts in English (MA) or a master of philosophy in English (M.Phil).
• Candidates need to clear the entrance examinations followed by a personal interview round to be eligible for a Ph.D. in English.
• Various Universities require you to have professional experience in English or literature subjects at a senior-level position.

Admission Process

The candidates need to follow the proper admission process to get admitted to the university. You need to visit the official website of your dream university, download the application form, fill it out and send it back to the university. Afterward, you need to attempt the entrance examination and score at least minimum passing marks. Candidates are also expected to score a minimum of 55% aggregate marks in their 10th standard, and 12th standard as well as a bachelor’s degree. Moreover, they need to complete their master’s degree in the English field for further admission. Once you clear the entrance examination you will be called for the personal interview session that will be followed by various other rounds. We have mentioned the compiled process below –

• Merit-Based Admission
• Entrance Exam-Based Admission (CSIR UGC NET, ICAR AICE JRF/SRF, UGC NET, etc)
• Written Test
• Counseling Session
• Group Discussion
• Final Documentation process & Evaluation

Syllabus for Entrance Exam

UGC-NET is the exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), which is accepted by all Indian colleges affiliated with the University Grants Commission (UGC). The syllabus for the UGC-NET English exam is listed below.

Fee Structure for Ph.D. in English

The Ph.D. in English fees vary according to the University to which you are planning to apply for admission to pursue further studies. In India, the average fee for completing a Ph.D. in English is INR 50,000/- per annum. The minimum fee required to pursue this program is INR 5,000/- and the maximum fee can go up to INR 3,00,000/- per annum based on amenities, reputation, enrollment number, location, etc. If you are looking forward to taking admission to the top universities for Ph.D. in English with minimal annual fees, then ‘Loyola College, Chennai,’ ‘Christ University College, Bangalore’, etc is the best option for you. Their fee structure stands approximately between INR 10,000/- per annum to INR 35,000/- per annum. Other best English Ph.D. universities with a bit higher fees structure between INR 75,000/- per annum to INR 1,50,000/- per annum are ‘Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneshwar,’ ‘NIMS University College, Jaipur,’ ‘St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai’, etc. Please note that the annual fees for Ph.D. in English will eventually increase & can go in lakhs if you wish to take direct admission to private universities that don’t require an entrance examination. But, after clearing the university-level entrance exam, you get certain relief in your entire fees.

Top Entrance Examinations for Ph.D. in English

Different Universities accept different entrance examinations. Moreover, they can also conduct their university-level examination that candidates need to clear before getting admitted to the university. During the entrance exam, you will have 1.5 hours to complete it. And the exam questions will be in the form of multiple-choice questions with no policy of negative marking. The entrance exam will generally be on subjects like logical reasoning, English, social science, etc. Some of the most popular entrance examinations held by different universities in India for Ph.D. in English admission are mentioned below –

• UGC NET: The entrance exam states the Indian candidate’s eligibility as a professor or Junior Research fellowship. The University Grants Commission (UGC) exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency.
• GATE: Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is conducted to test candidates’ eligibility for research-based subjects. You can appear for the GATE 2023 exam if you have completed either of the government-approved degrees in subjects of Arts, Science, Engineering, Technology, Architecture, Commerce, etc. It’s one of the prestigious exams that open doors to work in companies like ONGC, BHEL, NTPC, IOCL, SAIL, HPCL, etc.
• DUET: Delhi University Entrance Test (DUET) is generally a national-level entrance examination. The DUET entrance exam is organized by the National Testing Authority (NTA). The test allows candidates to pursue higher-level studies in degrees like postgraduate, M.Phil, and other research-based doctorate or philosophy courses. The DUET 2023 notifications will soon be released on their official website portal.
• JNUEE: Jawaharlal Nehru University Entrance Exam (JNUEE 2023 entrance exam) is generally a university-level entrance exam. The JNUEE 2023 notifications are declared & managed by the conducting body National Testing Agency (NTA). The exam takes place once every year. With the help of this exam, the candidates can take admission across various degree-level courses on the JNU campus within the 14 Schools. These degrees are undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), Master of Philosophy (M.Phil), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) etc.

Note: National Testing Agency (NTA) is a self-established organization that helps to organize various university-level entrance examinations. Such exams help candidates to take admission or fellowship to renowned educational universities. With the help of NTA standards tests, we can judge the capability of candidates for further admission.

Here in the below section, we have mentioned the most important dates for entrance examinations –

Scholarship and Fellowship

As per various government schemes, the most deserving candidates will be offered the scholarship & fellowship by waving off their fees. All the aspirants of Ph.D. in English are notified to attend the UGC NET exam & clear with required marks to avail the full benefit of such schemes. Clearing this entrance exam will give you the position of JRF (Junior Research Fellowship). Here, you are eligible for a stipend between INR 28,000/- to INR 30,000/-. Your stipend amount increases gradually after two years to INR 35,000/- at SRF (Senior Research Fellowship) position.

Result and Cutoffs

Minimum marks or aggregate percentage is set by the best universities for Ph.D. in English in India to select the top-notch & sharp-minded candidates.

The cut-off marks are different for every course, university, or college. Such cutoff scores widely save you from the difficult entrance examination. Based on your 12th standard, 10th standard, bachelor’s, or master’s, your admission process gets simplified. If you do not fulfill the minimum cutoff marks, then you will not be called for further rounds of the admission process. The list of cutoff marks usually gets declared after the results of entrance exams are out.

Future Scope and Career Options after Ph.D. in English

The future scope after completing a doctorate of philosophy in English seems very bright. It is so because novelists, creative writers, copywriters, technical writers, and even literature professors, etc. are the need of the day. Even though our mother tongue is Hindi, English is still the most basic language that is used as a medium to interact with each other in the private corporate sector as well as the government sector. We have compiled a list of some job profiles, career roles, employment sectors as well as top recruiters that you can get hired from after the completion of an English Ph.D. degree –

Employment Sectors 

Top Recruiters

Private Companies

Government Companies

Salary Package After Completing Ph.D. in English

The starting salary for a Ph.D. in English graduate freshers are INR 3,50,000/- to INR 5,000,00/- per annum as per PayScale. After gaining 3 to 5 years of relevant experience, it goes up between INR 10,00,000/- to INR 15,000,00/- per annum. The maximum you can make after 10 to 15 years of experience at profiles like movie critic is INR 36,00,000/- although for the right talent sky’s the limit.

Top Cities for Ph.D. in English

Indian cities that are best for completing your Ph.D. in English degree course are Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, preferably. It is so because it is considered a hub for employment so there are so many people from varied parts of India as well as foreign countries who are good in English & come to these cities for study. Having a group with such knowledge will help you to improve your skills and learn the best from each other. Moreover, while searching for the best college you should know about the professors, their profiles & degree and preferably join universities having professors who have completed English studies in foreign countries. Here are the top cities that you can approach for completing your PhD. in English degree –

Top university for Ph.D. in English

In India, there are more than 760 government and private universities as well as 38,498 colleges. Out of this number, more than 15,000 universities offer MA in English and Ph.D. in English courses.

Best Private/Government University for Ph.D.in English in India

Best University for Ph.D.in English in World

FAQ’s Related to Ph.D. in English

Q. What is the full form of a Ph.D. in English? 

Ans. The Ph.D. in English stands for doctor of philosophy in English degree. It is a research-based degree of 3 to 5 years usually done after completing the master’s in English.  

Q. Name the entrance exams held by the universities for joining Ph.D. in English degree courses. 

Ans. GATE, JNUEE, DUET, CSIR-UGC NET, ICAR AICE JRF/SRF are the entrance exams for Ph.D. English admission. 

Q. What is the average fee structure for a Ph.D. in an English degree course? 

Ans. The average fee for completing a doctorate in English is INR 5,000/- to INR 3, 00,000/- per annum. 

Q. How much salary can you expect after completing a doctorate in philosophy in English? 

Ans. According to PayScale, the Ph.D. English graduates can expect INR 3, 50,000/- to INR 5, 00,000/- per annum in private & government sector jobs. 

Q. What are the minimum aggregate marks accepted by the universities for taking admission to Ph.D. in English? 

Ans. The candidate must have at least 55% aggregate marks in Academics, and a bachelor’s as well as a master’s degree to be eligible for filling out the admission form.

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FCI Recruitment 2024: 15465 Vacancies, Application process, Eligibility Criteria and more details

Get ready, job seekers! The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is set to unveil its Recruitment 2024 Notification in November. This is a golden opportunity for those looking to join one of India's leading food management organizations. With a whopping 15,465 vacancies on the horizon, positions such as FCI Assistant Grade 3 and FCI Watchman are just some of the roles up for grabs. Stay tuned for the official notification to kickstart your application process!

FCI 2024 Expected Vacancies

Here's a breakdown of the anticipated vacancies for FCI 2024:

• Category I: 131 vacancies
• Category II: 649 vacancies
• Category III: 8,453 vacancies
• Category IV: 6,232 vacancies
• Total: 15,465 vacancies

How to Apply?

Once the notification drops, you'll be able to submit your application via the official FCI website. If you're applying from the UR/OBC/EWS categories, there's an application fee of Rs. 800. Good news for SC/ST/PwBD candidates and women-you're exempt from this fee!

Steps to Apply Online for FCI Recruitment 2024

Applying for the FCI Recruitment 2024 is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth application:

• Visit the Official Website: Start by heading over to the official FCI website or click on the link provided.
• Register Your Details: Fill in the necessary information to complete the registration. This will include basic personal details and contact information.
• Note Your Credentials: After registration, the system will generate a provisional registration number and password. Be sure to save these details securely, as you'll need them later.
• Upload Documents: Follow the instructions to upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature. Ensure they meet the specifications mentioned in the notification.
• Enter Educational and Personal Information: Provide your educational background and other relevant details as requested.
• Review Your Application: Take a moment to preview your application to make sure all information is correct and complete.
• Submit Your Application: Once everything looks good, click the final submit button.
• Pay the Application Fee: Proceed to complete the payment process for the application fee.
• Confirmation: After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email or message at your registered email ID or phone number.

FCI Educational Qualifications

Here are the educational qualifications required for various managerial positions at the Food Corporation of India (FCI):

• Manager (General): Candidates should have a Graduate degree or equivalent from a recognized university with at least 60% marks, or hold a CA, ICWA, or CS qualification.
• Manager (Depot): Candidates must possess a Graduate degree or equivalent from a recognized university with a minimum of 60% marks, or a CA, ICWA, or CS qualification.
• Manager (Movement): Candidates need a Graduate degree or equivalent from a recognized university with at least 60% marks, or a CA, ICWA, or CS qualification.
• Manager (Accounts): Candidates should have Associate Membership of:
• The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, or
• The Institute of Cost Accountants of India, or
• The Institute of Company Secretaries of India, OR
• A B.Com degree from a recognized university along with a Post Graduate Full-time MBA (Finance) Degree/Diploma of at least 2 years recognized by UGC/AICTE.
• Manager (Technical): Candidates must have a B.Sc. in Agriculture from a recognized university, or a B.Tech/B.E degree in Food Science from a recognized university or an institution approved by AICTE.
• Manager (Civil Engineer): Candidates should hold a Degree in Civil Engineering from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification.
• Manager (Electrical/Mechanical Engineer): Candidates need a Degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification.
• Manager (Hindi): Candidates must have a Master's Degree in Hindi from a recognized university or equivalent, with English as a subject at the Degree level. Additionally, 5 years of experience in terminological work in Hindi and/or translation from English to Hindi or vice versa, preferably in technical or scientific literature, is required.

Exam Details

The FCI Exam Date 2024 will be announced soon, so keep an eye on the official website for updates. The selection process typically includes an online computer-based test, an interview, and training. To excel, candidates should be well-prepared in subjects like puzzles, coding-decoding, current affairs, Indian geography, and history.

The Phase I exam is a multiple-choice format, with each question carrying one mark. Note that there's a penalty of one-fourth (1/4) mark for incorrect answers, but no penalty for skipped questions. Your Phase I marks won't impact your final merit ranking, but they're crucial for progressing to the next stages.

Cut Off Marks

The cut-off marks for FCI 2024 will vary based on the number of vacancies, applicants, exam difficulty, and candidate category. Aim for a score well above the expected cut-off to increase your chances of advancing.

Salary Details

As for salaries, FCI positions offer competitive pay. Junior Engineers typically earn between Rs. 24,453 and Rs. 26,673, while Typists and Assistant Grade-III positions offer salaries ranging from Rs. 20,353 to Rs. 22,213. For the most current salary details, refer to official sources.

FCI 2024 Preparation Strategy

To set yourself up for success in the FCI 2024 exam, start by familiarizing yourself with the exam's structure, topics, and pattern. Craft a study plan that fits your goals and schedule, making sure it's both realistic and effective. Regular practice with mock tests and reviewing past exam questions will significantly boost your preparation and increase your chances of performing well.

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