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English Doctoral Program Online

Doctor of Philosophy
College of Arts & Letters
Department of English

Why ODU for English?

ODU's PhD in English integrates writing, rhetoric, discourse, technology, and textual studies. The course work and research opportunities appeal to those pursuing an academic career as well as professionals with careers outside the classroom.

Your research will examine texts in a variety of overlapping and sometimes competing language-based worlds. You'll focus on texts and media when it comes to form, purpose, technology, audience, cultural location, and communities.

Focus your studies by choosing two of four emphasis areas from:

Literary and cultural studies
Writing, rhetoric, and discourse studies
Technology and media studies
A student-designed emphasis

When you graduate, you will earn a Doctor of Philosophy degree in English.

Want to learn more? Contact us!

Most Affordable Online PhD in English, 2023 - AcademicInfluence.com

Required Courses

48 credit hours

All part-time students must attend two Summer Doctoral Institutes at ODU's main campus. This satisfies the residency requirements for this degree.

See Course Details in the ODU Graduate Catalog

Online Learning Environment

Participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and access course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

This program requires attendance at two Summer Doctoral Institutes at ODU's main campus. Each institute is two weeks long and is held in July.

Online Experience

Careers in English

Writing/Editing
Advertising
Public Relations
Business/Industry
Digital Design

Calculating Cost

Rates are effective Fall 2024 and subject to change. * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Ready to get started?

How to apply.

If you don't have some significant background in an English-related field, the department encourages you to take master’s level coursework in English before applying. Detailed information about admission to the PhD in English program is available from the department's website .

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Want to get started now?

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program.

Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.

English (Literature), PHD

On this page:.

At a Glance: program details

Location: Tempe campus
Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD English (Literature)

The PhD program in English with a concentration in literature trains students in various methodologies, pedagogies and areas of inquiry that constitute literary and cultural studies.

With a diverse and distinguished faculty, the program offers opportunities for specialization in traditional areas of literary criticism, cultural analysis and theory, as well as various fields of interdisciplinary study.

A doctorate in literature equips students with a range of highly sought-after skills and competencies: research and analysis of complex material, communication in written and oral modes, collaboration, independence and self-motivation, creativity and adaptability.

The PhD in English (literature) at ASU is a premier graduate program in the U.S. with strong interdisciplinary ties and faculty links to research centers on campus and in the state, including the Arizona Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies, the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy, the Institute for Humanities Research, and the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing. With these resources and a strong mentorship program at their fingertips, our graduates are prepared for a wide array of professional opportunities including careers in college teaching, research, writing, editing, higher education, and humanities-related organizations.

Lee Bebout , Director

Kira Assad, Program Manager

Faculty in Literature

Doctoral Examinations

Doctoral Procedures and Timeline

Teaching Assistantships

Degree Requirements

Curriculum plan options.

84 credit hours, a foreign language exam, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

A student with an appropriate master's degree must complete a minimum of 54 credit hours of approved graduate work, which includes 12 credit hours of dissertation, provided the student's master's degree is accepted by the supervisory committee and the academic unit. Research hours may be used toward coursework in consultation with the advisor.

A student without an appropriate master's degree must complete 84 credit hours of work at ASU. At the advisor's discretion, students may include up to 12 credit hours of appropriate, graduate-level coursework undertaken at another university and not previously counted toward any other degree.

Specifically required are six credit hours in theory courses and ENG 501 Approaches to Research. Students must complete eight graduate courses in any of the following categories:

cultural studies
ethnic studies
gender studies
history and structure of the English language
literature 1500--1660
literature 1660--1900
literature since 1900
literature to 1500
postcolonial or anglophone literatures

Students must take at least five graduate seminars at the 600 level en route to the doctorate, at least three of which must be taken in the doctoral program. Up to 12 credit hours taken outside the department may be counted toward the degree. Students should consult with their supervisory committees when choosing electives.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

graduate admission application and application fee
official transcripts
statement of purpose
resume or curriculum vitae
three letters of recommendation
academic writing sample relevant to the field
statement of teaching philosophy (teaching assistantship only)
proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English and has not graduated from an institution of higher learning in the United States must provide proof of English proficiency, regardless of current residency. Applicants can find more information about English proficiency requirements on the school website . Please note that official scores must be sent to ASU in order for the application to be processed.

The well-considered, one- to two-page, single-spaced statement of purpose should explain the applicant's scholarly background and training, career goals, proposed research specialization, any secondary field of interest and why the applicant wishes to pursue a PhD in English (Literature) at Arizona State University. Applicants applying for funding must also submit a statement of teaching philosophy.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, learning outcomes.

Identify and evaluate various disciplinary arguments, trends, traditions and debates within the knowledge community of literary and cultural studies scholars.
Demonstrate the ability to produce written work of publishable quality.
Demonstrate research skills necessary to bring a project of literary or cultural analysis to fruition, including the ability to evaluate disciplinary debates and developments; and the ability to produce research on historical and cultural meanings of texts and related cultural productions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers in higher education and other fields that value this expertise. Sectors employing high numbers of arts and humanities graduates include information and communication, financial and insurance, public administration and defense, arts and entertainment, and education.

Career examples include:

art director
criminal investigator or special agent
intelligence analyst
market research analyst
museum curator, educator or exhibit designer
political analyst
public relations specialist or manager
technical writer

Global Opportunities

Global experience.

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

[email protected]
480/965-3194

Online PhD in English

Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.

Timelines, Programs and Resources for English Students

The time commitment for earning and online PhD in English is equal to that of earning the same degree on campus. Students will hone their research skills, take on self-motivated projects, collaborate with elite academics and ultimately present a culmination of their research as a contribution to the area of English they chose to study. After graduation, students can pursue careers in academia, as well as fields like business, law or advertising. English PhD graduates are typically excellent communicators, and this guide explores where and how to earn these doctoral credentials through distance learning.

Timeline: Earning an Online PhD in English

Earning an English doctoral degree through an online program tests a student’s ability to study and research intensively on their own time. It requires a great deal of commitment, but even distance learning programs include students in academic discussions with their thesis advisors and other faculty members in the English department. The following timeline provides a helpful guide for online students to navigate through their program with, from applications through graduation.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Because an English PhD is such a high-level degree, applicants must be prepared to provide examples of their best work and explain why they would do well in a certain program. They must show their commitment to English and literature in order to be accepted.

COMPLETED MASTER’S DEGREE AND TRANSCRIPTS This prior graduate degree should be in English or a closely related field, and applicants should have earned it through an accredited institution. Programs will ask for official transcripts to be sent from all higher learning institutions that an applicant attended.
GRE SCORES There may be a minimum scoring requirement in the reading and verbal areas of the GRE for doctoral level English applicants, but all programs will want to see general scores from this exam taken within the last five years.
PERSONAL STATEMENT This personal essay is where an applicant outlines their professional, academic and research goals and how the specific online PhD program in English will help them achieve these goals. Applicants should also note what degree emphasis they are interested in pursuing within English, depending on what the school offers.
WRITING SAMPLE English PhD applicants must include a writing sample with their application, usually around 20 double-spaced pages, that is on a topic related to their specialization or English expertise.
RECOMMENDATION LETTERS Online PhD programs will ask for letters of recommendation from sources that are able to comment on an applicant’s readiness to attend a graduate program in English.
RESUME English PhD programs will take academic qualifications and professional experience into account. Some consider this an integral part of application requirements for doctoral-level English students.
DEMONSTRATION OF LEARNING COMMITMENT Because online English PhDs require self-motivated, research-intensive study, applicants may be asked to demonstrate their ability to make time, use relevant technologies and facilities, and commit fully to distance learning. Previous experience with online education programs is helpful.

YEAR 1 MILESTONES

The first year of an online English doctoral program is the last chance a student has to play the academic field. After this year, or sometimes even before applying to the program, English PhD students must choose an area of English to specialize in and study intensively. This is where they will devote all of their attention to throughout their PhD program.

CHOOSE A CONCENTRATION Any undecided students need to choose a focus within English in the first year of an online PhD program in order to direct their future research and prepare for their final thesis. Concentrations may be in a specific time period of literature, or more general concentrations like technology and media studies.
REFINE RESEARCH PRACTICES Throughout the English PhD program, students will design and conduct empirical research with literature, including various scholarly approaches to writing such as ethnography and feminist research.
INVESTIGATE FACULTY MEMBER ADVISORS Because professors are such a major component of a PhD program in English, students should begin looking for faculty advisors early. This usually involves finding a professor who specializes in the student’s chosen area of specialty.

YEAR 2 MILESTONES

Second-year English doctoral students must complete all specialized courses in their area of specialty. Some may choose to take more electives, which may mean more time in school. This is also the year English PhD students will begin to prepare for their final theses and dissertations.

CONCENTRATION COURSES AND ELECTIVES Because English PhD areas of specialization vary, students are usually required to complete courses within their specialization during this year. These can be in subject areas such as historical literature, or theories around rhetoric and writing. There will also be other required courses and a certain number of electives second-year English PhD students must take in addition to these specialty studies.
CRITICAL RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS Online PhD programs teach English students to think and reason outside the box, using uncharted paths. They will have to investigate topics with a critical eye, exploring previous research but not relying on others’ opinions for their own findings.
PREPARE FOR A RESEARCH PROJECT Students should begin cultivating ideas and relevant sources of research material for their final English PhD thesis as soon as they have decided on concentrations. This final, culminating project will exemplify their academic achievement and is needed to become experts in their field.

YEAR 3 MILESTONES

The final year of an English PhD program is completely devoted to a student’s final thesis and dissertation. Their entire academic career has honed their research skills, critical thinking, writing and speaking abilities to reach this pinnacle of academic achievement.

DISSERTATION HOURS Different online PhD programs in English may have specific dissertation courses that prepare students to develop, initially research, refine, and organize a topic for their thesis and defense. Faculty members oversee research and bibliography construction. All core, field, specialized and elective coursework needs to be completed before undertaking preparations for a dissertation.
DOCTORAL CANDIDACY EXAMS After completing class and research requirements, some online English PhD programs require students to pass an exam designed specifically for student’s chosen field and the projects they hope to pursue. If a student does not pass, they will not be allowed to submit their research proposal or work on their dissertation. These students will need to re-evaluate and re-test.
APPLY FOR A RESEARCH PROJECT Before starting research preparing for the defense on their English PhD thesis, students must find a faculty advisor and submit a research proposal. This is to ensure that they are pursuing interesting, relevant, original research in the field, that they have planned their research and thesis well and that they are completely prepared for rigorous academic work.
INDEPENDENT, RELEVANT RESEARCH The final stage of a student’s English doctoral program focuses completely on research into the specialization that they have chosen to study. English PhD students must apply their researching, analysis and writing skills, under the supervision of a faculty advisor, to complete their thesis.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduating from a PhD program in English is a testament to a student’s research ability and their commitment to the subject. They have defended their skills before a panel of successful academics. This is the most important requirement for a PhD, but there are a few other key requirements for an online degree that English PhD students must also meet.

COMPLETED COURSEWORK Because English doctoral degree studies build upon a student’s experience with research in their chosen field, they must complete each online course to the professor’s satisfaction before proceeding in the program. Most PhD programs have minimum GPA requirements that students must meet to remain in the program.
TESTS AND TRAININGS While individual English professors may administer exams to their PhD students, the online university itself may have test requirements that accepted students must fulfill, usually to establish a common base knowledge of good research practices.
ON-CAMPUS REQUIREMENTS Some programs may require online PhD student to attend a specified amount of English classes on-campus. These residential credit hours must be fulfilled before a student can graduate.
THESIS AND DEFENSE All English PhD programs require students to complete an original thesis or dissertation under the supervision of an advisor. Defending the value and work of this thesis to a panel of fellow English academics is also major part of earning a doctorate.

Core Principles and Skills Learned in Online English PhD Programs

Phd in english, literature and culture, rhetoric and communication, technology resources, master’s in english, top online phd in education programs.

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

Spotlight: Online PhD Programs in English

The best thing about online programs is that students have the opportunity to enroll in the best schools, no matter where they are located geographically. The following list spotlights the best accredited English PhD programs that offer online degrees in the nation, base on a variety of factors important to students. This information can provide a base for students to begin digging deeper into each program to find the best overall fit.

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Harvard offers 22 total fine arts and design programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. Programs fall under the Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies (AFVS); the Office for the Arts ; or the Graduate School of Design . Through Harvard, students can earn a professional art degree without compromising on a liberal arts education.

Students wishing to major in studio arts declare a concentration in AFVS during their sophomore year. By the end of junior year, AFVS majors establish a media focus to develop a professional-level portfolio. Students choose to complete either a two-semester senior thesis or a project representing their third year body of work.

The graduate school offers professional and post-professional master's programs in design, architecture, and urban planning. Admission to the design master's program requires two years of professional experience. However, undergraduates may apply to the architecture and urban planning programs with a portfolio demonstrating their aptitude for three-dimensional design.

The University of Pennsylvania's Weitzman School of Design offers 28 programs in fine arts and design focused on the interdisciplinary study of art as a response to societal challenges. UPenn awards bachelor's-level art degrees in fine arts or design.

The fine arts program focuses on artmaking technique and requires six studio courses with options such as printmaking, sculpture, and animation. The design program explores the integration of design with science and the humanities. Studio courses under this major offer instruction in the application of contemporary design theory and prototyping and fabrication.

Both undergraduate degrees include a two-semester capstone senior seminar in the final year. The seminar culminates in a public showcase of the student's portfolio. Prospective students applying directly to the art program may submit a supplemental portfolio. Current students enter the program without a separate application by meeting with an advisor to declare a major.

The Penny W. Stamps School of Art and Design (Stamps) at the University of Michigan hosts 14 undergraduate and graduate level programs with options tailored toward either a studio or an academic focus. Undergraduates choose from four art degree options: BA or BFA in art and design, BFA in interarts performance, and dual-degree options.

In all programs, Stamps requires studio courses in drawing, design, and inquiry methods. Students must pass a sophomore review in which they present a portfolio of college work to a faculty committee. Students must also complete one course outside the United States in an approved international program unless they declare a minor.

All Stamps applicants need to complete the Common Application or Coalition Application for U-M. Recommendations must include letters from both an academic and an art instructor. Portfolios should include 12-15 pieces representing both conceptual work and direct observation drawings.

A private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University offers 17 programs in art and design through The College of Fine Arts . This includes a BFA and a BXA intercollege degree programs.

The BFA program contains four media-based concentrations. Students can choose a specific concentration or create an individualized hybrid curriculum.The first year curriculum includes courses from all four concentrations. After sophomore year, students gain more freedom to choose their major coursework. A year-long senior studio course serves as the program capstone. Each school year ends with an exhibition showcasing senior studio work.

When making a decision, admission officers consider an applicant's portfolio, transcripts, and test scores holistically. Portfolios must include 12-20 pieces with artist statements. Faculty recommend including work done outside of assignments to represent independent ability.

A private research university in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University features 11 art and design programs through the Trinity College of Art and Sciences. Undergraduate students can pursue one of three BA tracks: art history, visual arts, and visual and media studies. Art history specializations include architecture and museum studies. The program also offers a combined art history and visual arts major.

Visual arts majors choose courses from six subdisciplines for introductory and intermediate studios. The program culminates in a required theory course and a studio capstone. Visual and media studies majors must take two gateway courses within their first year. Students choose from a list of preapproved courses to serve as their capstone.

Art program applicants only need to complete the general Duke application, but students may submit a portfolio and statement as a supplement.

The private research university hosts two schools catering to visual arts. The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers art degrees in studio art, visual arts administration, art therapy, and art education. Tisch School of the Arts provides undergraduate and graduate level tracks in art and design for film .

The BFA in studio art program begins with a year-long foundation program and ends with a senior studio capstone course. In this course, students develop a portfolio and plan their gallery showcase in small groups. The Tisch film program covers four primary stages: introductory, fundamental, intermediate, and advanced. After completing a bachelor's program, students interested in production design can apply to the MFA program.

Applicants to the Steinhardt School must submit a 12-15 piece portfolio with a statement of purpose. Tisch portfolio requirements include a one-page resume and the choice of 10-15 images or a five-minute short film. Students must also answer three creative prompts in visual and script format.

Located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, Tufts University offers 32 degree and certificate programs in art and design through the School of the Museum of Fine Arts , Boston.

The first year for BFA students consists of a heavy studio course load and an introductory theory course in visual and material studies. Over four years, students participate in eight review boards, presenting their semester work to a team of faculty and students. The review process helps students recognize the connection between their research projects and studio work while developing their own artistic direction.

Applicants can choose either a BFA or a combined degree program on the Tufts application. Both programs require a portfolio submission of either 15-20 images or up to 10 minutes of timed material.

A private research university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh University offers 13 major and minor programs in art, design, and architecture . The four main BA programs provide students with a foundation for a career in art or a smooth transition to graduate studies.

The art major centers on the principle disciplines of drawing, painting, sculpture, and photography. Art majors can combine studies with a theatre major to specialize in costume design or pursue a minor in education to receive a teaching certificate. The design major includes studios combining communication through digital media with traditional artmaking. Both majors include five foundation courses in art history, two and three dimensional design, and drawing.

Applicants need to complete the Common Application or Coalition Application for Lehigh and a writing sample. Students earning a five on the AP Studio Art exam apply eight credits toward the first year foundation courses.

Drexel University, a private research university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, awards degrees from 22 art and design programs . These programs include bachelor's and master's level instruction in design, production, and media management.

All BS majors begin with a foundation in studio art which aims to foster student creativity and solidify design fundamentals. As students continue within their chosen discipline, they will gain professional experience through the university's cooperative education program. Students can choose a four-year study track with one co-op, usually during the third year, or a five-year track, with three co-op placements.

The Westphal College of Media Arts & Design application includes an essay expressing the student's interest in their intended program. Some majors, such as animation, fashion design, and photography, require an 8-12 piece portfolio.

Georgetown University's Department of Art and Art History offers BA options in art and art history and an MA in art and museum studies. Students can choose one of eight media specializations in a combined studio and liberal arts curriculum.

After completing two introductory courses, students take three intermediate studios within a concentration. The four concentration options include drawing and printmaking; painting; sculpture; and photography, graphic design, and new media. Students must complete a senior art seminar to fulfill the university integrated writing requirement. The department hosts a senior art major exhibition in the spring.

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions bases decisions on a student's general application. Applicants can submit a supplemental portfolio of up to 20 images to convey substantial artistic talent not demonstrated on the general application.

University of Florida

University of Florida students have access to more than 200 research and education centers, and institutes. PhD degree in English at Florida provides doctoral students with more than 20 specialized academic tracks across all eras, genres, and theoretical/critical schools of thought. Students entering with a bachelor’s degree must complete a 90 credit hour degree. Students with an English master’s degree from another school must complete 60 hours required toward the PhD. Courses include studies in the track area, related studies, electives, and master’s research including a thesis and comprehensive oral examination. PhD students must complete foreign language requirements and defend a dissertation based on original scholarly research.

In-State Tuition: $6,313
Student Population: 50,645
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 89%
Number of Students per Instructor: 21

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University opened in 1923. In 2013, 10 Texas Tech faculty members received Fulbright Scholarships, the most for any faculty in the nation. The PhD in English program reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence, offering students the opportunity to advance scholarship in their field while concurrently learning to teach in multiple English disciplines. Areas of emphasis include British Literature, American Literature, Linguistics, Creative Writing, or Comparative Literature, Globalization and Translation. New specializations have been recently developed in 19th Century literature, Book History, Literature, Social Justice, and Environment, and Film & Media Studies.

In-State Tuition: $7,811
Student Population: 35,859
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 53%
Number of Students per Instructor: 22

Your Degree: What Can I Do with a PhD in English?

An online PhD in English typically leads graduates into academia, as professors who teach English students and continue to study, research and publish papers in their field. This does not always have to be the case, however. Graduates from English PhD programs have proven their ability to focus, research, reason, write and explore: all qualities that can be essential in many job markets. Take a look at some examples of career paths a PhD in English could lead to below.

English Professor

English professors teach English and literature studies at a collegiate level. They may teach classes in their chosen area of specialization, such as literature from a certain period in history. Conducting research, remaining current in their field and publishing research papers is also a major part of an English professor’s job.

Job Growth (2014-2024): 13% Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $72,470

Grant Writer

Grant writers research, write and submit funding proposals for organizations, institutions, programs and individuals. They ask for sums of money from government or private foundations, tailoring their requests to connect the specific missions of their organization or program. Typically, grant writers request funding from programs designed to aid specific types of organizations or programs.

Job Growth (2014-2024): Data unavailable Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $43,718

Urban and Regional Planner

These professionals plan ways to use lands and programs to create communities, facilitate growth, generate interest in revitalization efforts and study the inner workings of cities and counties, in both metro and rural areas. They work with teams of people who have a wide range of skills, from infrastructure and construction to data gathering and surveying. They are great communicators and problem solvers.

Job Growth (2014-2024): 6.3 % Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $68,220

Survey Researcher

In addition to conducting surveys and analyzing their data, survey researches design a wide variety of information gathering tools to ask questions. Their objective is to understand the perspectives, beliefs, traditions and preferences different people hold based on a variety of factors, such as demographics or economic group. Survey researchers can cover work across any number of fields, from advertising to politics.

Job Growth (2014-2024): 12% Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $53,920

Additional English PhD Resources

Below is a collection of free online resources for current PhD students, English and humanities membership organizations, and career and networking resources for English PhD graduates seeking careers beyond colleges or universities. English PhD scholars dedicate their time to very narrow areas of literature, but the skills can be applied in so many different jobs and situations.

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

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Shape your future with an online degree.

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

We rank the best online PhD degree programs in English.

Key Takeaways

Students seeking a PhD in English can choose from a small selection of online English doctoral programs.
Online English PhD graduates typically work in areas like post-secondary education, language research, publishing.
Online English PhD programs come in concentrations like American literature, technology and media studies, literary theory, and more.

Featured Programs

The online English PhD program is ideal for working professionals and graduate students with a deep interest in English literature, comparative literature, creative writing, English language learning education, literacy education, and more. However, only a select number of universities offer a full selection of English PhD programs online.

The online English doctoral degree is considered a terminal degree, which means it is the highest degree that you can earn in your field. This means that online doctoral programs for PhD students in English can lead to opportunities for teaching English at the post-secondary level, participating in advanced humanities research, or providing public consultation on critical literacy and learning issues.

Online PhD in English candidates are typically already working at a high level in their field. This means that students seeking their doctorate must balance existing work and personal responsibilities with a challenging course of education. For many graduate students, online courses and fully online programs provide a way to achieve this balance.

For a look at how these online doctor of English programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the The Best Research Universities for English Degrees.

Or find out more with a look at our College Rankings Guide .

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn an online PhD in English.

The best online PhD in English programs will have proper accreditation. Be sure that you are pursuing your PhD in English through a fully accredited university and program:

Institutional Accreditation : Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online PhD programs offered by the online school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body.

A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates. When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

Programmatic Accreditation : In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure that you prioritize online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. While there is no specifically required programmatic accreditation for the general field of English, those who intend to work in post-secondary educational institutions may be required to complete a doctoral program with accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Make sure that your online English PhD program offers the proper programmatic accreditation requirements for your career goals.
Carnegie Classification : The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States. Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”

Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online Phd programs.

Key Point: Be sure that you only consider an online English PhD program with proper accreditation.

Doctoral Program Admission Requirements

Schools that offer online English PhD programs have different admission requirements. However, most online doctoral programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:

A completed online application
Official transcripts
A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
Letters of recommendation
Personal interviews
Personal statement or writing sample
Plan of study

Key Point: In most cases, you will be eligible to enter a doctoral degree online after earning only a bachelor’s degree. However, some specialized online English Degree programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses For English Graduate Students

As with other advanced degree and graduate programs, research is the central component of your online PhD in English program. This is true for fully online doctorate degrees as well as hybrid degrees combining online education with traditional on-campus courses. Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is five to seven years.

The typical components of your online English PhD program may include:

Foundational Courses

Your English PhD will typically begin with foundational courses in your area of concentration. Concentrations may include:

English literature
British literature
Creative writing
Critical literacy training
Literary and cultural studies

Some of your courses will focus on research methods and experimental design. You may be able to complete many of these requirements through online classes. Your English graduate program may also include a foreign language requirement.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many online doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

In most cases, the central component of your online PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original scholarly research question.

This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some online Ph.D programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teaching assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements through distance learning.

Key Point: Completion and defense of your dissertation will be a central part of completing your online doctoral degree program in English.

Careers for English Online Doctoral Students

The online PhD in English is a terminal degree program. This means that PhD students who complete this online program will qualify for top positions and opportunities in their field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that you may be able to qualify for work as an English teacher with a master’s degree in English. However, the highest paying careers in English are generally held by those working in post-secondary education. The BLS notes that the highest paid 10% of professionals in the English field earned more than $132,000 in 2021.

Earning an online PhD in English can lead to some of these top-paying roles in the field, including:

Critical Literacy Policy Development
Education Policy Consultation
Post-Secondary Literature Education
Education Department Chairmanship

Key Point: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, English professionals with a doctorate will earn more than graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online PhD programs?

Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, your online doctoral degree may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online Phd programs.

The Best Online English Doctorates (PhDs)

The online PhD in English programs identified here are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment.

Texas A&M University

#2 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
#2 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
#3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
#13 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
#24 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
#1 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#2 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
#2 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
#3 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
#5 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#8 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
#9 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
#11 Best RN to BSN Online
#13 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#20 Best Online Master's in Management

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Engineering
Earth Sciences
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Mathematics

Most Influential Alumni

C. Wright Mills
Frank Malina
Gilbert Shelton
Henry Cisneros
Richard Steadman
Kenneth Womack
Elaine Ingham
Forrest Mims
Adrian Smith
H. W. Brands
Lihong V. Wang

What do we love about Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University was founded in 1876 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas. In 1948, Texas A&M began to expand into additional campuses throughout the state, making the College Station, Texas campus the flagship school in the Texas A&M University system.

With more than 73,000 students pursuing degrees at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels, Texas A&M University is in fact the largest school in the United States by enrollment. The public research university is also the only school in Texas that is designated as a land-, sea-, and space-grant university.

Texas A&M makes a wide range of excellent graduate level degrees available to students both through traditional delivery and fully online classes. For instance, students can complete the PhD in English either online or at the Texas A&M-Commerce campus.

Are planning to conduct advanced graduate research. Texas A&M is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities for its very high level of research activity.

Are looking for a more intimate college experience. Texas A&M is literally the largest school you could possibly attend.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

#4 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2024
#4 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Alabama
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
#3 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#3 Best Online MBA Programs in Alabama
#3 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024
#3 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2024
#5 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
#7 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
#7 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
#7 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
#8 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
#8 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
#8 Best Online MBA in Marketing Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
#9 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#9 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
#9 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
#13 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
#15 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
#15 Best Online MBAs in Finance
#15 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
#18 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#19 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
#4 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

University of Alabama at Birmingham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Anthropology
Rebecca Bace
Ray L. Watts
Eli Capilouto
Lawrence J. DeLucas
Hadiyah-Nicole Green
Graeme McDowell
David B. Allison
Clancy Blair
Bruce R. Korf
Selwyn M. Vickers
Ricardo Azziz
Jason Aaron

What do we love about University of Alabama-Birmingham?

University of Alabama-Birmingham was formed in 1936 as a small regional “academic extension center.” Over the next three decades, the school grew into a public research university boasting 140 undergraduate and graduate programs across 12 academic departments.

From its humble regional beginning, the University of Alabama-Birmingham today serves more than 22,000 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. In fact, the university is also the single largest employer in the state, with more than 75,000 people working as faculty, staff, and in various jobs across the university health system.

UAB is identified among R1: Doctoral Universities for its very high level of research. Students pursuing their PhD have a number of options both online and on campus. In particular, UAB offers a variety of excellent online education PhDs, which can provide an excellent degree pathway for those with an interest in post-secondary English and literature education, or those with an interest in literacy research and policy development. Relevant concentrations include the online PhD in Early Childhood Education and the online PhD in Educational Studies in Diverse Populations .

Want balance between big city life and a small town feel. Students describe the campus and surrounding Birmingham as offering a safe community in a vibrant urban setting.

Are seeking a broad selection of on-campus activities. Some students describe options as limited in this area.

Texas Tech University

#7 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
#1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
#1 Best Online Master's in English
#2 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
#2 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students
#2 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
#2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
#4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
#4 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
#5 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
#6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
#7 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
#7 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
#7 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#8 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#8 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
#8 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
#9 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
#10 Best Online Master’s in Communications
#11 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
#12 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
#12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
#14 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
#14 Best Online Master's in Special Education
#14 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
#15 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
#15 Best Online Master’s in Education
#16 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#20 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
#20 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
#23 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
#23 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Political Science
John Hinckley Jr.
Arati Prabhakar
James T. Richardson
Mica Endsley
Carolyn Eisele
Paul E. Gray
Guy McPherson
John Denver
Manuel H. Johnson
M. David Rudd

What do we love about Texas Tech University?

Texas Tech University began life as the Texas Technical College with its founding 1923. Based in Lubbock, Texas Tech is considered the primary institution among the five schools making up the Texas Tech University System.

Taking its present name in 1969, Texas Tech University would become the sixth-largest institution in the state of Texas. Today, there are more than 40,000 students earning degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels at the public research university

Texas Tech is particularly noteworthy as a destination for prospective PhDs, including those with an interest in its online PhD in English. The school has a number of different PhD in English programs , including creative writing, literature, linguistics, and rhetoric. Texas Tech is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities, so noted for their very high research activity.

Like a college with strong school spirit. Students repeatedly note that the school spirit is a major feature of campus life, which can make Texas Tech feel like one big community.

Are looking for a small campus. Like a lot of other things in Texas, Texas Tech is a sprawling campus. Students note that the sheer distance of walking between classes can sometimes be exhausting.

Old Dominion University

#8 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
#2 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
#2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
#3 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
#3 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
#3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs
#3 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
#3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration
#3 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
#4 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Electrical and Computer Engineering Degree Programs for 2024
#6 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
#6 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
#7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
#7 Best Online Master's in English
#8 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
#9 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
#10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#10 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
#10 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
#10 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
#11 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
#13 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
#18 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
#19 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
#23 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
#24 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
#25 Best Online Master's in Special Education
#4 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
#13 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Justin Verlander
Nancy Lieberman
Serkan Golge
Ticha Penicheiro
Linda B. Hayden
Richard C. McCarty
Kent Bazemore
Bonita V. Saunders
Sarah McCoy
Jack T. Kirby
Philip C. Kendall

What do we love about Old Dominion University?

Old Dominion University was formed in 1930 as the Norfolk Division of the College of William & Mary. Based in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion university offers more than 150 graduate and undergraduate degree options.

Today, Old Dominion serves more than 24,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels, and is noted as an institution where a high level of scientific and technological innovation takes place.

Old Dominion is identified among R1: Doctoral Universities for its very high level of research. Students pursuing their PhD have a number of options both online and on campus.

ODU has an online English doctoral program that results in a PhD in English. The program is 48 credit hours and includes two summer visits to campus.

Enjoy diversity. Students at ODU represent all 50 states as well as more than 80 nations around the world.

Do not prefer a college in an urban area. ODU’s 251 acre campus is less than 5 miles from downtown Norfolk.

Murray State University

#2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky
#3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024
#3 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
#4 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024
#5 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky
#6 Best Online Master's Programs in Kentucky 2024
#6 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
#7 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
#11 Best Online Master's in English
#12 Best Online Master's in Economics
#12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
#13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#14 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
#14 Best Online Associate in General Studies
#18 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
#18 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
#23 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration

Career Outlook for English degree at Murray State University

Murray State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Jeff Easley
David L. Armstrong
Popeye Jones
Chris Thile
Terry Yates
W. Earl Brown
Kirk Rueter
Bill Cunningham

What do we love about Murray State University?

Murray State University was formed in 1922 as the Murray State Normal School. Though Murray State’s flagship campus is based in Calloway, Kentucky, the public university operates an additional four campuses throughout the state.

Murray State gradually evolved throughout its history, from a modest teachers college operating out of a local middle school into a degree-granting institution and, by 1966, a state-recognized university. Today, Murray serves more than 9,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Murray State offers several only doctoral programs, and is recognized for its NCATE accreditation, which distinguishes its advanced degree programs in the field of education.

The school has an online Doctor of Arts in English Pedagogy degree program.

Are pursuing careers in teaching, nursing, and business. Murray State is recognized for its excellence in each of these areas.

Have financial limitations. Students describe the cost of attendance and the cost of living as comparatively high at Murray State.

Other Options for Aspiring English PhDs

Students considering an online doctoral in English should also check out the best on-campus options to compare features like cost, curriculum, acceptance rate, and more.

New York University

#13 Best Universities in the World 2024
#23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
#2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
#2 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
#2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2024
#2 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
#3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
#3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
#7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
#7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
#18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
#18 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
#23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
#23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
#1 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
#1 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
#1 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#1 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
#2 Best Online Master's in Management
#2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#2 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
#3 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#3 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
#1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
#1 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
#5 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
#10 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Social Work
Communications
Erich Fromm
Robert Mueller
Martha Nussbaum
John Archibald Wheeler
Glenn Greenwald
Howard Zinn
Eric Kandel
Lewis Mumford
Alvin Toffler
Louis Nirenberg

University of California, Berkeley

#2 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
#2 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
#2 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
#2 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
#2 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
#5 Best Universities in the World 2024
#1 Best Colleges in California 2024
#1 Best Public Colleges California 2024
#1 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
#2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
#2 Best Research Universities in California 2024
#2 Best Grad Schools California 2024
#2 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
#3 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
#4 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
#4 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
#4 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
#4 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
#5 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
#5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
#6 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
#7 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
#7 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
#7 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
#7 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
#9 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
#9 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
#1 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
#1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#2 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
#2 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
#3 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#4 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
#2 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
#3 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Daniel Kahneman
John Kenneth Galbraith
Timothy Leary
Shing-Tung Yau
Ken Thompson
Niklaus Wirth
Douglas Engelbart
Theodosius Dobzhansky
Betty Friedan
George Dantzig
Octavio Paz
Gary Snyder

University of Michigan

#4 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
#9 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
#9 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
#11 Best Universities in the World 2024
#22 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
#1 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
#1 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
#1 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
#1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
#1 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
#1 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
#2 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
#4 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
#5 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
#6 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
#6 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
#9 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
#10 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
#11 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
#11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
#11 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
#11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
#13 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
#13 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
#13 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
#13 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
#1 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
#1 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
#1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
#1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
#1 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#1 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
#2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
#2 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#2 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
#2 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#4 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#6 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
#1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
#7 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Michigan

University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Claude Shannon
Arthur Miller
Alvin Plantinga
Edgar F. Codd
Hans-Hermann Hoppe
Stephen Smale
Urie Bronfenbrenner
John Henry Holland
Amos Tversky
Marshall Sahlins

University of California, Los Angeles

#7 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges
#13 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
#14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
#14 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
#17 Best Universities in the World 2024
#2 Best Public Colleges California 2024
#2 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
#3 Best Colleges in California 2024
#3 Best Research Universities in California 2024
#3 Best Grad Schools California 2024
#6 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
#8 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
#9 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
#10 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
#11 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
#12 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
#13 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
#14 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
#15 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
#16 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
#17 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
#18 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
#21 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
#4 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
#4 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#4 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#12 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Hilary Putnam
Elinor Ostrom
Judea Pearl
Glenn T. Seaborg
Barry Boehm
Stanley Cavell
William F. Sharpe
John Ehrlichman
Stephen Krashen
Edward O. Thorp
Stephen Kosslyn

University of Iowa

#1 Best Public Colleges in Iowa 2024
#1 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2024
#1 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2024
#1 Best Colleges in Iowa 2024
#1 Best Online MBA Programs in Iowa
#1 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
#1 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2024
#2 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
#5 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#5 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
#9 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
#9 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
#10 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
#11 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
#4 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
#8 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Iowa

University of Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Albert Bandura
Tennessee Williams
Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak
Oswald Veblen
Jayaprakash Narayan
Leon Festinger
Henry Jenkins
Everett Rogers
Julian Rotter
John Robert Anderson
Wallace Stegner

Check out our complete Online Program Rankings .

Secondary Menu

Ph.D. Degree

The Graduate Program in Literature is a doctoral program, which means that all students enrolled prepare for the Ph.D. degree. The program does not grant M.A. degrees along the way. The typical time to completion for the doctoral program is 6 full years.

Requirements for the Ph.D.

12 Seminars
7 Literature Program courses
At least 5 courses in a teaching field of your choice
Foreign language proficiency in two languages
Preliminary Exam
Chapter Workshop
Dissertation Defense
Teaching Assistantship
Responsible Conduct of Research Training

Additional Course Guidelines

Undergraduate-level Courses - There are no restrictions on the number of undergraduate courses a student may take outside the Literature Program during their graduate career. The approval of the DGS must be sought in such cases, and in any case Graduate School Regulations do not allow courses below the 500 level to count toward the fulfillment of coursework requirements or to be included in a student's GPA calculation. In general undergraduate courses tend to be limited to relevant language courses.

Independent Studies - Students can take up to three independent studies over the course of their careers. Students have to complete the “Independent Study Notification Form” every time they take an independent study and it must be signed by the DGS. Supplies of these forms are kept in the DGS Assistant’s office.

Inter-institutional Courses - The Registrar requires students to follow a special procedure when they register for courses at other Triangle universities (UNC, NCCU, NCSU). Forms and information are available at the Registrar's Office. You’ll need approval from Lit’s DGS & the professor of the course.

Typical Degree Timeline

What follows is a very general timeline that graduate students in the Program may use as a rough orientation for their six-year course of study. It is not meant to replace the guidance that you should actively seek , for your own specific circumstances and research field(s), from your mentors and advisors.

During the first year, you will familiarize yourself with the department, the university, and the profession at large. The many colloquia and conferences offered at Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, NC Central and NC State, present great opportunities for you to get to know your peers, professors, national and international scholars.

During the second year, you can start presenting your work at conferences in your field(s). You should by now identify your main advisor(s), and begin TAing so as to familiarize yourself with teaching duties. You may also begin to plan for a Certificate in College Teaching.

During the third year, you will complete your preliminary exams and start to work towards your dissertation. Make sure to complete, by the end of this academic year, all the required coursework, including any language requirement related to your specific field. To be competitive in a specific field, you may well need more than one language besides English: please consult with your advisors about this matter.

During the fourth year, your focus will be to complete, if not an entire first draft, at least a good part of your dissertation. This is also a good moment to make your work known in the profession by publishing a part of your dissertation and by presenting some of the other parts at professional conferences. Finally, you should attend the dissertation formatting training sessions offered by the Graduate School (either during the fall or the spring): this is very important, to avoid any last-minute surprises that could jeopardize your entire time-plan for the PhD.

If possible, you should try to finish your dissertation during your fifth year at Duke. You should also keep a presence at professional conferences, and you may also want to consider the possibility of public humanities publications. Finally, this is the year to start applying for jobs.

You should be ready to defend by the end of this year.

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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 15, 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]

English (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. in English is an innovative program that integrates digital humanities, writing studies, literature, rhetoric, discourse, and cultural studies, offering opportunities for creative reinterpretation of these fields within the discipline of English. Students may pursue full- or part-time study through a combination of on-campus and distance learning courses. This program prepares students for academic careers, as well as other careers in which reading, writing, and critical inquiry figure prominently; the program also helps students professionalize within their current careers.

Program Highlights

There are three main concentrations: 1) Literary and Cultural Studies; 2) Rhetoric, Writing, and Discourse Studies; and 3) Technology and Media Studies. Students whose interests and scholarship recommend it may work with an advisor to assemble a 4) Student-created concentration that must be approved by the graduate program director.

Distance/Online Learning: Each year the English PhD program recruits and admits candidates who will take the program part-time and at a distance (mostly through WebEx). Students at a distance are required to meet the same admissions standards and have the same course requirements and program expectations as on-campus students. Students at a distance are expected to obtain the requisite software necessary to engage in synchronous video classes, access Blackboard, and otherwise participate as fully in class life as electronic means will allow. Students at a distance should visit the Online Student Orientation website .

Dynamic: It underscores the English’s interdisciplinarity. Students are invited to study the teaching of writing in view of technological and textual innovations; to examine cultural spaces as rhetorical ecologies; to consider literary archives as cultural effects; and more.

The Summer Doctoral Institute allows distance students to complete the program at the same pace as full-time students who attend on campus. It features a two-week on-campus residency that has students working intensively with one another and with faculty they customarily see on screens.

The Research Competency Requirement allows students to creatively establish their research methods by allowing foreign languages, statistical analysis, and technological expertise to complete it.

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) . A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Writers and Authors

Originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material.

Public Relations Specialists

Engage in promoting or creating an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media.

English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Technical Writers

Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.

Requirements

A completed master's degree (or its equivalent) in English or in an appropriate field from a regionally accredited institution of higher education

A minimum GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) overall for the master's degree

TOEFL scores if applicable

A 1500 word statement of the applicant's academic and professional goals and discussion of how the Ph.D. in English will contribute to the achievement of those goals

Three letters of reference from sources capable of commenting on the applicant's readiness for advanced graduate study in English

A writing sample of at least 15 double-spaced pages on on a topic related to the applicant's expertise

Featured Courses

An investigation of the cultural discourse surrounding the figure of Pocahontas in Early American literature and history, observing its construction within the dominant archive and its performance over a period of four centuries. Also seeks to understand Pocahontas from within local indigenous traditions and a larger network of indigenous agency.

An exploration of the diffuse and disparate methods and practices of contemporary digital activism.

This course introduces students to the principal questions and concerns of the field and includes a comparison and contrast of the subspecialties in English, including how they form and address key issues

Estimated rates for the 2024–25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid .

Assistantships

Our online program allows students to pace their progress through the degree in an affordable fashion while losing little time as they advance toward completion. The online per-credit cost is comparable to in-state tuition. All on-campus students enjoy five years of support in assistantships. Their work includes editorial assistant of a peer-reviewed journal and MediaCommons; administrative work supporting the directors of the Writing Program and the Writing Center; coordinating the use of the MPark, our department’s learning lab and maker space; research and teaching in upper-division writing and literature courses; and teaching in our general education program.

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2024 Best Online PhD in English Programs

If you love words and communication, it may be your goal to earn an online PhD in English.

Holding a doctoral degree is a common requirement for jobs in academia, such as being an English professor or a humanities researcher. Having a PhD isn’t just for working in a college, though.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Whether you plan to be a professor or a practitioner, you can satisfy your desire to study language and writing by completing a distance learning PhD in English.

Universities Offering Online PhD in English Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer English degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers an online program for a PhD in Leadership with a specialization in Reading, Language, and Literacy.

Students must complete 67 credits to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must also submit 2 letters of recommendation and a personal statement about their goals.

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Murray State University

Murray State University offers an online Doctor of Arts in English Pedagogy program. The program offers four different specializations: Language, Literacy, Literature, and Writing.

Students who have a master’s degree only need to complete 48 credit hours of coursework. Applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and 3 letters of recommendation can enroll at any point during the year. Murray State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers an online program for a PhD in Education with an emphasis in English Language Learning.

To graduate, students must obtain 60 credit hours. The program can usually be completed in 37 months. Students can start the program at any time and can determine their own schedule with no preset lecture hours or due dates.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an online PhD in English program. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.5, a GRE score above the 70th percentile, and 3 letters of recommendation.

Students choose two emphases from Literary and Cultural Studies, Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse Studies, Technology and Media Studies, or a student-designed emphasis. A total of 48 credits are needed to graduate. Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Ohio University

Ohio University offers an online PhD in English program. Students can choose a concentration in one of three areas: Literary History, Creative Writing, or Rhetoric and Composition.

Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 2 years of undergraduate coursework related to foreign languages and should submit GRE scores and 3 letters of recommendation.

Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Rowan University

Rowan University offers a PhD in Education with an option to add a Language and Literacy Concentration.

Students must complete 72 semester hours, with 15 hours dedicated to the specialization. A thesis or project is required to graduate. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and 3 letters of recommendation.

Rowan University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

St. John’s University

St. John’s University offers an online PhD in Literacy program. To graduate, students must complete 42 credit hours and a dissertation project under the supervision of a faculty member. The program can typically be completed within 3 to 4 years. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.2 or higher, GRE scores, and 2 letters of recommendation.

St. John’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers an online PhD in English program. Applicants must submit 4 letters of recommendation, transcripts, and GRE scores.

Students may choose to add a specialization to their degree with a concentration in Written Discourse, Theory and Practice, or Critical Literacy. The program is designed for those interested in teaching English and requires a teaching residency.

Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers an online program for a PhD in English with the option to take a concentration in Literature, Creative Writing, or Linguistics. At least 60 course hours and a qualifying exam are needed to graduate. Applicants must submit 3 letters of recommendation, a resume, and all transcripts.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Houston

The University of Houston offers an online program for a PhD in Professional Leadership with an emphasis in Literacy Education.

Students must complete 51 credit hours with a GPA of 3.0 to graduate. Courses last for 5 to 6 weeks. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must submit 3 letters of recommendation, a resume, and transcripts.

The University of Houston is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online PhD in English Programs

A doctorate in English is a terminal degree for people who are interested in various aspects of the English language, including literature and writing.

During your program, you may have the opportunity to spend several years engaged in serious study, so you’ll probably want to select a topic in the field that fascinates you. Some areas of study include medieval literature, gender studies, written discourse, modern grammar, or film criticism.

In a doctoral English program, you’ll typically complete a series of coursework toward the beginning of your studies. While a handful of your classes might be prescribed, you may be at liberty to select much of your own curriculum.

Topics you might study in online English PhD programs include:

Cultures and societies
Composition and rhetoric
Grammar and syntax
Literature from various time periods
Research methods
Teaching methods

Many students enter English PhD programs because they want to have careers in academia. In a linguistics department, you might teach courses and work on research projects. Taking classes on instructional methods during your program can help you prepare for that role.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll typically need to undertake a major research project. Completing the research and the writing for your dissertation can take several years. Along the way, you’ll take classes to help you get started, and you’ll have the support of a faculty advisor.

After completing your doctoral program, you might look for a job at a university or another academic institution. You can also pursue research opportunities outside of college settings. Having a PhD in English might also enhance your career as a writer, an editor, or a journalist.

Your developed communication skills can also be useful in the fields of public relations or business administration. Some graduates become education administrators or K-12 teachers as well.

English Major Careers & Salaries

Many students who enroll in English doctoral programs want to become college professors. As a faculty member of a university’s English department, you might teach writing or literature. You may have opportunities to conduct research in the humanities as well.

Getting a faculty job can entail a lot of competition. Fortunately, there are plenty of other options you can pursue with a degree in English lit or language.

Being a professor isn’t the only option for working in education. With a teaching license, you can qualify to teach in a high school’s English education department. Those with a PhD may also pursue roles as college administrators.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , there are various career paths open for people with a Ph.D. in English.


Public Relations and Fundraising Managers	$118,430
Top Executives	$107,680
Postsecondary Education Administration	$97,500
Technical Writers	$74,650
Postsecondary English Language and Literature Teachers	$69,000
Writers and Authors	$67,120
Editors	$63,400
High School Teachers	$62,870
Middle School Teachers	$60,810
Reporters, Correspondents, and Broadcast News Analysts	$49,300

The publishing industry especially relies on strong writing skills. Some graduates become authors or editors. The process of researching and writing a dissertation might prepare you for the role of a technical writer, relaying complicated information in understandable ways.

In fact, nearly any job that depends on communication skills might benefit from your doctoral background. Public relations managers and administrative managers are two such positions that require solid communication skills.

Journalism and on-air reporting are other lines of work to consider. Audiences might appreciate your ability to explain complicated situations or to help them consider different perspectives.

English Doctorate Curriculum & Courses

As a doctoral student, you may have a good deal of flexibility to choose what courses you take as part of your program.

The English departments at many schools offer a vast lineup of courses. That might allow you to build a curriculum that supports your professional goals and research interests. Examples of courses that might be offered at your school include:

American Literature : You could study a particular period in American history, the social forces that shaped that era, and the works that came out of it.
British Literature : Writers you might study in a British lit class include Shakespeare, Chaucer, Marlowe, and Wordsworth.
Communicating Through Mixed Media : You can learn to deliver effective messages on digital platforms through a mix of words, images, and other elements.
Grammar of the English Language : You’ll study traditional and modern issues related to syntax and other aspects of grammar.
Humanities Research : This course will introduce you to graduate-level research practices for people who study English or other humanities subjects.
Key Questions for English Scholars : During this course, you may study literature theories, methods of analysis, and perspectives through which to view various works.
Medieval Literature : In this course, you might familiarize yourself with early forms of the English language or explore ways that medieval works have influenced modern writers.
Multicultural Language Studies : As you explore works from around the world, you may discuss the challenge of translating ideas from one culture to another.
Statistics for Linguistics : You’ll learn how to apply quantitative statistical methods when analyzing your research data.
Teaching Writing : Your time in this class can help you become a more effective educator who brings out the best in students’ composition skills.

Some of these classes may be designed to prepare you for a dissertation project. A significant portion of your doctoral program may be devoted to completing the dissertation.

Admissions Requirements

English departments typically look for doctoral students with a solid academic background and impressive writing skills. To demonstrate that you’re the right candidate for a doctoral program, you may need to submit the following:

Application form and fee
College transcripts
GRE scores (if required)
Resume or curriculum vitae
Writing sample

GRE scores are not a universal requirement for graduate admission, so your school may not request them or may grant waivers to qualified applicants.

Accreditation

A doctoral degree in English will require a lot of your time, attention, and effort. It’s strategic to make sure that you’re investing your resources wisely by choosing to study at a college that holds regional accreditation .

To become accredited, a school must take its educational mission seriously. It has to undergo an evaluation process in which it demonstrates honest practices and a commitment to academic excellence.

Accredited degrees garner greater respect from institutions and employers. When you’re looking for a job, holding a regionally accredited PhD may increase your chances of securing a desirable role.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

As part of your preparation for graduate school, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

You may qualify for government student aid, and you might be able to take out state or federal loans with a lower interest rate than you’d get with private loans. You may also be eligible for a work-study program.

Some colleges finance part or all of a PhD student’s education through teaching or research assistant programs. Your commitment to supporting the school’s English program may significantly reduce the price of your doctoral degree.

There’s also the possibility of earning scholarships or fellowships from private sources. These gifts may support you for one or more years of your program. If your studies will benefit your current employer, you can see if a workplace tuition program will cover part of your PhD costs.

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization can help you sharpen your abilities as a wordsmith, an educator, or a leader in linguistics. Your group might offer resources like conferences, journals, job boards, and discussion forums.

Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)
Modern Language Association (MLA)
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)

Being a part of a professional organization can allow you to enhance your studies while in school. Your membership can continue to provide benefits after you complete your doctoral program.

Can You Get a PhD in English?

Yes, there is a Doctor of Philosophy in English degree. There are programs focused on literary criticism and others dedicated to the study of writing and rhetoric. Both online and on-campus PhD programs are available.

Course topics you might take during an English PhD program include literature theories, history of the English language, and 19th century American literature. You may also take classes focused on research, technical writing, and teaching. This group of courses can prepare you for your dissertation project and a potential career in academia.

What Can You Do with a PhD in English?

Many people want to earn their PhDs because they have their sights set on academic careers. You might want to teach university English courses or also work on original research. Your degree in English literature or composition can be useful in other fields as well.

Having a doctoral degree might establish you as a top candidate for various jobs in which communication is an essential skill. Common communication careers include working in education, public relations, writing, editing, and broadcasting.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in English?

How long it takes you to earn your English doctorate is largely up to you and your schedule.

A couple of years will probably be spent on required coursework. In accelerated English degree online programs with fast-track classes, you might be able to complete your classes in a shorter length of time. Most of your program, though, will be spent on the dissertation process. It may take you several years to complete the necessary research and write your document.

Students generally end up in a doctoral program for around 3 to 5 years. Others may spend longer on the process.

Is a PhD in English Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in English is worth it for many students. If you’re set on becoming an English professor, having this degree is typically a necessity.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teaching positions are growing at a 9% rate. Even still, some humanities departments are shrinking, so competition for English positions may be tight.

Before committing, it’s worthwhile to consider other benefits—such as the opportunity to immerse yourself in in-depth studies. A doctorate can also be useful in writing, editing, or administrative careers.

Getting Your PhD in English Online

If you have a deep passion for words and the messages they carry, then you may consider earning a PhD in English. A PhD is especially necessary if your plans involve searching for a job as a college professor.

Through your studies, you can also refine your communication skills. Your writing and speaking prowess can be useful in sectors like publishing, media, and public relations. Just as there are online masters programs in English , for your English PhD studies, you can also attend classes online. Through distance learning, you can earn a doctorate in English according to your own schedule.

If you’re ready to take the next in your educational journey, you can start by exploring online English PhD programs from accredited colleges.

2024 Best Online English PhD Programs

Writen by: CollegeRanker Team

Reviewed by: David Krug , Editor-in-Chief

Updated on: September 5, 2023

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Online PhD programs in English offer a flexible and convenient way for students to earn their doctoral degree. With the advancement of technology, students can now pursue their academic goals from anywhere in the world. The online format allows students to complete coursework and research at their own pace, while still receiving guidance and support from faculty members.

Several universities offer online PhD programs in English, each with its own unique curriculum and requirements. Students can choose from a variety of specializations, including literature, creative writing, linguistics, and rhetoric. Some programs may require students to attend occasional on-campus residencies, while others are completely online. It is important for students to research and compare programs to find the one that best fits their academic and personal goals.

In this article, we will explore some of the best online PhD programs in English. We will provide an overview of each program, including its curriculum, faculty, and admission requirements. Students who are considering pursuing an online PhD in English can use this article as a starting point for their research and decision-making process.

Methodology

When compiling a list of the best online PhD programs in English, several factors must be considered. The following methodology was used to determine the top programs:

Accreditation

The first factor considered was accreditation. All of the programs listed are accredited by a recognized accreditation agency. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards and that the degree earned will be recognized by employers and other institutions.

Program Reputation

The reputation of the program was also taken into account. Programs with a strong reputation in the field of English were given higher priority. This includes programs that have a history of producing successful graduates and are well-regarded by other academics in the field.

The curriculum of each program was carefully evaluated. Programs that offer a wide range of courses and allow students to specialize in their area of interest were given higher priority. Additionally, programs that require a dissertation or other significant research project were given higher priority.

The faculty of each program was also evaluated. Programs with experienced and accomplished faculty members were given higher priority. This includes faculty who have published research in their field and have a strong reputation in academia.

Student Support

Finally, the level of support offered to students was also considered. Programs that offer strong academic and career support, as well as resources for online students, were given higher priority. This includes access to online libraries, tutoring services, and career counseling.

By considering these factors, the following list of the best online PhD programs in English was compiled.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a highly regarded PhD program in English that allows students to specialize in a variety of areas, including literature, cultural studies, and rhetoric and composition. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and other fields.

One of the unique features of the program is its emphasis on interdisciplinary study. Students are encouraged to explore connections between literature and other fields such as history, philosophy, and cultural studies. This approach allows students to develop a broad understanding of their chosen subject area and to engage in innovative research.

The University of Florida’s English PhD program is also notable for its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The program actively seeks out students from underrepresented groups and provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment. This commitment is reflected in the program’s faculty, which includes scholars from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Prospective students can apply to the PhD program through the university’s Graduate Admissions website. Applications are typically due in December, and admission decisions are made in the spring. Financial aid is available in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.

Overall, the University of Florida’s English PhD program is an excellent choice for students seeking a rigorous and interdisciplinary education in English studies. With its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, as well as its focus on innovative research, the program prepares students for successful careers in academia and beyond.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) offers an online English (Literature) PhD program that trains students in various methodologies, pedagogies, and areas of inquiry that constitute literary and cultural studies. The program is designed to prepare students for academic careers in research and teaching.

ASU’s English (Literature) PhD program requires 84 credit hours and culminates in a dissertation. The program’s coursework includes seminars in literary theory, research methods, and literary history. Students are also required to complete a comprehensive exam before beginning their dissertation.

ASU’s Department of English offers a range of resources and opportunities for its graduate students. The department hosts a variety of guest speakers, workshops, and conferences throughout the year. Additionally, the department offers several internship opportunities for English graduate students, as well as study abroad opportunities.

ASU is ranked among the best graduate schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The university offers more than 120 online master’s degrees and doctorate programs taught by the same world-renowned faculty who teach on campus. ASU also offers more than 30 graduate certificates, all online. Students can filter areas of interest to find the program that best suits their needs.

Overall, ASU’s English (Literature) PhD program is a strong option for students seeking a rigorous and comprehensive education in literary and cultural studies. With its world-renowned faculty and extensive resources, ASU is a top choice for students pursuing graduate studies in English.

University Of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers an accredited online PhD in English program that focuses on literary, cultural, and rhetorical studies. The program is designed to prepare students for academic careers in research, writing, and teaching. The program is delivered entirely online, allowing students to complete their coursework from anywhere in the world.

The program requires 60 credit hours of coursework, including core courses, electives, and a dissertation. The core courses cover topics such as literary theory, research methods, and critical pedagogy. Electives allow students to explore their interests in more depth, with options such as American literature, British literature, and cultural studies.

Students in the program work closely with faculty members who are experts in their fields. Faculty members provide guidance and support throughout the program, helping students to develop their research interests and refine their writing skills. The program also offers opportunities for students to present their research at academic conferences and publish their work in scholarly journals.

UCF’s online PhD in English program is ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The program’s flexible schedule and online delivery make it an ideal choice for working professionals who want to advance their careers while continuing to work full-time.

Overall, UCF’s online PhD in English program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue advanced study in English while maintaining their current work and personal commitments. With its flexible schedule, expert faculty, and rigorous curriculum, the program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in academia and beyond.

Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) offers a highly ranked online English PhD program that is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to become experts in the field. The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in academia, research, or other related fields.

Penn State’s online English PhD program is ranked #6 out of 122 PhD-granting English departments in the United States, according to the National Research Council. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in literary history and critical theory, as well as in-depth training in their chosen area of specialization.

The program is delivered entirely online, which allows students to complete their coursework and research from anywhere in the world. Students have access to a wide range of resources and support services, including online research databases, academic advising, and faculty mentoring.

The online English PhD program at Penn State is designed to be flexible and customizable, allowing students to tailor their coursework and research to their individual interests and career goals. Students can choose from a variety of areas of specialization, including:

American literature
British literature
Postcolonial literature
Rhetoric and composition
Creative writing

Penn State’s online English PhD program also offers a number of professional development opportunities, including teaching assistantships and internships, that allow students to gain practical experience in their field.

Overall, Penn State’s online English PhD program is a highly respected and rigorous program that provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. With its flexible and customizable curriculum, world-class faculty, and comprehensive support services, Penn State is an excellent choice for students who are looking to pursue a career in English.

University of Denver

The University of Denver offers a PhD in English and literary arts with a concentration in literary studies. This program exposes students to a wide range of literature and literary theory, preparing them to teach and research at the university level. The program is offered through the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

The English and Literary Arts Department at the University of Denver provides students with opportunities to explore literary and creative endeavors through a variety of workshops and seminars. The Denver School of Forms & Poetics brings together DU faculty, graduate students, advanced seniors, guest artists, and the broader Denver community. The program serves as a forum to experience innovations in how such endeavors can interact.

The PhD in English and literary arts with a concentration in literary studies at the University of Denver requires students to complete a minimum of 90 credit hours. The program includes coursework in literary theory, literary history, and research methods. Students are also required to complete a dissertation on a topic of their choosing.

The University of Denver also offers a PhD in English and literary arts with a concentration in creative writing. This program focuses on the craft of creative writing, preparing students to publish their work and teach at the university level. Students in this program are required to complete a minimum of 90 credit hours, including workshops and seminars in creative writing, literature, and research methods. They are also required to complete a dissertation in creative writing.

The University of Denver is a highly respected institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence. Its English and Literary Arts Department is no exception, providing students with a rigorous and engaging program that prepares them for success in the field of English studies.

Indiana University

Indiana University (IU) offers a highly respected online English PhD program that provides students with the flexibility to complete their degree while maintaining other commitments. IU’s English department partners with IU Online to offer several options for students who wish to continue their education and enhance their professional skills.

IU’s English PhD program provides students with a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes literary and cultural theory, critical analysis, and research methods. Students can choose from a variety of areas of focus, including medieval studies, early modern studies, eighteenth-century studies, nineteenth-century studies, twentieth-century studies, and contemporary studies.

IU’s English PhD program also provides students with numerous opportunities for professional development. The program offers a range of teaching assistantships and fellowships that provide students with valuable teaching experience and financial support. Additionally, IU’s English department sponsors a number of events and activities throughout the year, including guest lectures, conferences, and workshops.

IU’s English PhD program has a strong track record of producing successful graduates. Alumni of the program can be found working as faculty and administrators in the Ivy League, flagship public universities, smaller regional universities and colleges, and liberal arts colleges throughout the United States and beyond.

University of North Carolina

The University of North Carolina (UNC) offers a comprehensive online PhD program in English and Comparative Literature. The program aims to produce excellent scholars and teachers by fostering insightful and imaginative thinking. UNC’s online doctoral degree programs allow students to hone their senior leadership skills and become scholars and practitioners in their field.

The program engages in all historical periods and across several key areas of critical study. Students can learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The program offers a wide range of courses, including Literature, Medicine, and Culture, which is a unique interdisciplinary program that explores the intersections of literature, medicine, and culture.

UNC’s online doctoral programs offer students flexibility and convenience. Students can complete the program at their own pace while still receiving the same quality education as on-campus students. The program is designed to help students develop their research skills and produce original research that contributes to the field of English and Comparative Literature.

UNC’s online doctoral alumni serve in prominent leadership roles, run independent practices, and influence change at the highest levels. The program’s job placement rate is high, and graduates have gone on to work in academia, government, and the private sector.

Overall, UNC’s online PhD program in English and Comparative Literature is an excellent option for students who want to pursue a career in academia or other fields related to English and literature. The program offers a rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and flexibility that allows students to complete the program on their own terms.

University Of Nebraska

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a Ph.D. degree in English with specializations in Literary and Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, and Composition and Rhetoric. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field of English and its various subfields. The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing academic careers in English or related fields.

The program is offered both on-campus and online, providing students with the flexibility to choose the learning environment that best suits their needs. The online program is a hybrid program, which means that students complete the majority of their coursework online, but are required to attend at least two on-campus summer research seminars.

The Department of English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a distinguished faculty of scholars and writers who are actively engaged in research and teaching. The faculty members are committed to providing students with individualized attention and support, and work closely with students to help them achieve their academic and professional goals.

The Ph.D. program in English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is highly competitive and selective, with a limited number of spots available each year. Students are required to submit a writing sample, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose as part of the application process. The application deadline for fall admissions is December 1st.

Overall, the Ph.D. program in English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is an excellent choice for students who are interested in pursuing advanced study in English. The program offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum, a distinguished faculty, and a flexible learning environment that can accommodate the needs of a diverse range of students.

University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a PhD in English with three concentrations: Applied Linguistics, Literary and Cultural Studies, and Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication. The program is designed to provide students with advanced training in research, writing, and critical thinking, and prepares them for academic careers in English studies.

The program requires a minimum of 54 credit hours beyond the master’s degree, including coursework, language proficiency, and a dissertation. Students can choose from a variety of courses in their chosen concentration, as well as in other areas of English studies.

The University of Memphis is ranked among the top English PhD programs in the nation by various sources. According to CollegeReviews.org, it is the third-best affordable online PhD in English program. The program is also ranked 122nd in the nation by U.S. News and World Report.

In addition to the PhD program, the University of Memphis offers several other online English degree programs, including an MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, an MA in Technical Communication, and a Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. These programs are designed for students who want to enhance their skills in teaching, writing, and communication, and are offered fully online for maximum flexibility.

Overall, the University of Memphis provides a high-quality, affordable option for students seeking an online PhD in English. With a strong focus on research, writing, and critical thinking, the program prepares students for successful careers in academia and beyond.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in English program that is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge in literary studies, critical theory, and writing pedagogy. The program is designed to be completed entirely online, allowing students to balance their academic pursuits with other commitments.

The Ph.D. in English program at Liberty University is a 60-credit hour program that can be completed in 3-4 years. The program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of literary theory, research methods, and critical analysis. Additionally, the program offers a wide range of elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas such as creative writing, linguistics, and cultural studies.

The program is designed to foster a collaborative learning environment that allows students to interact with their peers and professors through online discussion forums, email, and video conferencing. Students are also required to attend a one-week residency on campus during their first year of study, which provides an opportunity for students to meet their professors and classmates in person and participate in academic workshops.

Overall, Liberty University’s Ph.D. in English program offers a flexible and comprehensive curriculum that is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and writing. The program’s emphasis on literary theory, research methods, and critical analysis provides students with a solid foundation for pursuing advanced research and scholarship in their chosen field.

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Comparative Literature

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Harvard’s Department of Comparative Literature is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the country. Its impressive faculty has included such scholars as Harry Levine, Claudio Guillén, and Barbara Johnson. You will study literatures from a wide range of historical periods and cultures while learning to conduct cutting-edge research through an exhilarating scope of methods and approaches.

Your dissertation research is well supported by Harvard’s unparalleled library system, the largest university collection in the world, comprising 70 libraries with combined holdings of over 16 million items.

Recent student dissertations include “Imagined Mothers: The Construction of Italy, Ancient Greece, and Anglo-American Hegemony,” “The Untimely Avant-Garde: Literature, Politics and Transculturation in the Sinosphere (1909-2020),” and “Artificial Humanities: A Literary Perspective on Creating and Enhancing Humans from Pygmalion to Cyborgs.”

In addition to securing faculty positions at academic institutions such as Princeton University, Emory University, and Tufts University, graduates have gone on to careers in contiguous fields including the visual arts, music, anthropology, philosophy, and medicine. Others have chosen alternative careers in film production, administration, journalism, and law.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Comparative Literature and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Comparative Literature .

Writing Sample

The writing sample is supposed to demonstrate your ability to engage in literary criticism and/or theory. It can be a paper written for a course or a section of a senior thesis or essay. It is usually between 10 and 20 pages. Do not send longer papers with instructions to read an excerpt; you should edit the sample so that it is not more than 20 pages. Writing samples should be in English, although candidates are permitted to submit an additional writing sample written in a different language.

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should give the admissions committee a clear sense of your individual interests and strengths. Applicants are not required to indicate a precise field of specialization, but it is helpful to tell us about your aspirations and how the Department of Comparative Literature might help in attaining these goals. The statement of purpose should be one to four pages in length.

Personal Statement

Standardized tests.

GRE General: Optional GRE Subject: Optional

Theses and Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Comparative Literature

See list of Comparative Literature faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

PhD in Literature

London Global Gateway

The London Global Gateway promotes activities that advance the mission and raise the profile of the University in London and around the world.

O'Connell House Dublin Ireland

The Keough-Notre Dame Study Centre every summer offers the Irish Seminar at the O’Connell House in Dublin.

Rome Global Gateway

The Rome Global Gateway is one block from the Colosseum. The Gateway also fosters research and graduate education.

Study literature, acquire and practice languages, learn a profession, find opportunities: follow your passion! Apply to an innovative, transnational and transdisciplinary program.

Literary Future

National literature is losing its significance; this is the era of world literature, and everyone should hasten its development. Goethe, On World Literature, 1827.

Please note: the Ph.D in Literature Program at the University of Notre Dame is no longer admitting new students.

Online Ph.D. in Literacy

Devote yourself to advancing literacy education.

Request more information.

100% online

2.5 years of courses + dissertation project to complete

2 specializations

61st Best Online Education Graduate Programs 1

Literacy is the foundation of all learning. Prepare to help students from diverse backgrounds overcome barriers to reading proficiency and succeed throughout their entire educational career with the Ph.D. in Literacy program at St. John’s University—one of the nation’s only online doctorate programs in literacy.

Graduate in as little as three years ready to enhance learning across all subject areas in partnership with students, teachers, and administrators.

Plus, you can enter the field confident that your training meets or exceeds that of your peers. The School of Education at St. John’s University is a member of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation , American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education , and University Council for Educational Administration .

“The information I am learning in the program is priceless. I truly appreciate the direction that is given by my professors. They are very helpful and knowledgeable. I believe this program will prepare me to advocate for both teachers and students in my field.” – Annamaria Miller, ESL Teacher/Instructor

Customize Your Learning

Take your career in a new direction by focusing your education in one of two areas:

Ph.D. in Literacy: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Combine your passion for literacy with specialized skills teaching English to speakers of other languages. This curriculum meets the International TESOL Association’s highest standards.

Ph.D. in Literacy: Literacy

Support literacy as the backbone of education from kindergarten to high school graduation, gain first-hand experience with expert faculty, and build a foundation for student success.

Find Your Future in Literacy

Equip yourself with a repertoire of literacy strategies that enhance teaching in a variety of environments, from the classroom or special education department to learning resource rooms and ESL teams.

Depending on your specialization, prepare for job titles such as:


Elementary/secondary education leader	$94,390
Adult/secondary education literacy instructor	$87,160
Post-secondary education administrator	$92,360
Special education professional	$96,100

Curriculum Focused on Reaching Diverse Learners

The entire 42-credit curriculum, through research, implementation, and instruction, is built around a holistic focus on helping students overcome the obstacles they face in literacy, no matter their background. You will:

Broaden and increase your depth of knowledge on literacy for all learners, including diverse and at-risk populations.
Develop your abilities as a literacy educator who sees diversity as an advantage.
Gain forward-thinking perspectives on literacy research, theory, practice, and evaluation.
Expand your capacity to conduct advanced research and inquiry.

The online Ph.D. in Literacy encourages proactive research to find solutions for literacy difficulties and advocates for equity and social justice. Through an independent research project, you address a critical area in literacy and harness what you learn to make an impact in this field.

Work with Dedicated Faculty

Learn from faculty with decades of experience in literacy education and take advantage of a dedicated advisor who supports your success throughout the program. Annual reviews of your progress, and mentorship from the program coordinator, ensure you make the most of your time at St. John’s University.

If you have any questions about St. John’s University’s online Ph.D. in Literacy, contact us at 844-393-1677 or request more information today!

U.S. News & World Report, 2019
O-Net Online. (2018) Education Administrators, Elementary & Secondary School. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.mynextmove.org/profile/ext/online/11-9032.00 .
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017 May) Adult Basic and Secondary Education and Literacy Teachers and Instructors. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes253011.htm .
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017 May) Occupational Outlook Handbook: Post-Secondary Education Administrators. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm .
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2017 May) Occupational Employment Statistics. Retrieved on February 13, 2019, from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252059.htm .

Ph.D. in Literature

Students in our Ph.D. program gain advanced knowledge of literature from the British Middle Ages and colonial America to global/postcolonial and U.S. contemporary, as well as knowledge of literary theory, literary analysis, and interdisciplinary methods. The course of study balances coverage of national literary traditions with innovative methods and topics such as literature and science; literature and environment; translation; gender and sexuality studies; and critical race studies.

Our Ph.D. students are involved in a range of interdisciplinary and public initiatives. For example, some affiliate with interdisciplinary Designated Emphases ; others have received grants to create podcasts , convene interdisciplinary working groups , or organize annual graduate student conferences. Each year one student participates in a year-long exchange program with the Obama Institute for Transnational American Studies in Mainz, Germany; some have worked as Graduate Assistants and researchers for research centers such as the Medieval and Early Modern Studies Program , the experimental media Modlab , and the university’s Datalab .

Students graduate with the qualitative and quantitative skills necessary for professional research and teaching in English, as well as extensive pedagogical training and a range of teaching experience that includes writing and composition, as well as designing and teaching Introduction to Literature courses. Our Alumni Directory includes titles of recent dissertations, as well as information about the diverse careers for which the Ph.D. has helped prepare our graduates. There is an option to complete an MA in literature , but it is not a stand-alone program.

Questions? Contact:

Aaron Barstow Graduate Program Coordinator, Ph.D. Program in Literature [email protected] (530) 752-2738 Pronouns: he/they

Ph.D. Program Requirements

Degree requirements for the Ph.D. program (links to more details) include 50 units of coursework with at least 44 units taken for a letter grade, proficiency in one foreign language proficiency before degree conferral, preliminary and qualifying examinations, and a dissertation. In addition, there are also opportunities for students to pursue a Designated Emphasis and gain teaching experience.

Coursework Requirements

3 Core Courses (8 units) • English 200: Introduction to Graduate Studies (taken as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory) • One survey course in literary theory (Critical Theory 200A or 200C taken for a grade) 1 Workshop (2 units) English 288: Prospectus Workshop (taken as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory); students may petition to complete this course independently with a Prospectus Adviser.

10 Graduate-level Seminars (40 units) • All courses must be taken for a grade • Five courses must satisfy the breadth requirement (see below) • Five courses will be comprised of electives (see below) • Students may count one undergraduate 100-level course as one of their ten required courses • Aside from ENL 200, no course graded Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory may count as one of the twelve required seminars • Independent and group studies may not be taken for a grade

13 Total Graduate Courses (50 units; 44 units taken for a grade) Additionally, students who enter the Ph.D. program without a MA degree can earn one en route to the Ph.D. degree.

Foreign Language Requirement

The English Ph.D. requires a reading knowledge of one foreign language before completing the degree; it is not an admissions requirement. This could be satisfied through previous or current coursework or an exam. Any of the following demonstrates proficiency:

Completion within the past eight years of 3 semester-length, or 4 quarter-length courses in a foreign language at the undergraduate level. Students must earn a passing grade, but courses may be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Students may take the Placement Test offered by the UC Davis Language Center , testing out of the language at the intermediate level.

A Pass in the language exam offered in the English Department at the beginning of Fall or Spring quarter each year.

Breadth Requirement

The breadth requirements must be fulfilled by coursework in the Department of English or coursework taught by English Department faculty. Five courses (of the total 40 units above) will satisfy this requirement. Students must complete two Earlier Period courses, and two Later Period courses, and one Focus course.

Earlier Period Courses Pre-1800; or Pre-1865 if the course focus is on American literature

Later Period Courses Post-1800 or Post-1865 if the course focus is on American literature

Focus Course Interdisciplinary, Identity, Genre, Other National, Method, Theory

Faculty and/or the Graduate Advisor may choose to designate a course as fulfilling more than one category, but students may use the course to fulfill only one requirement. For instance, a student could use a course on women in Early Modern literature to satisfy the Earlier Period requirement, or the Focus (Identity) requirement, but not both. A student could use a course on Cold War Drama to satisfy the Later Period requirement or the Focus (Genre) requirement, but not both.

Electives Requirement
The electives requirement can be fulfilled by actual offered seminars inside or outside the English Department. Five elective courses will satisfy degree requirements. UWP 390 is acceptable as one of the electives. Also, be aware 299s are ungraded but still count towards overall units. With the approval of the Graduate Adviser, students may also enroll in a graduate class at another University of California campus through the Intercampus Exchange Program .
Course Waiver and Course Relief

Students who enter the Ph.D. program with MA coursework from another institution may petition the Graduate Adviser for a Course Waiver up to three of the twelve required seminars; each approved petition will reduce the number of required courses by one. Students may not reduce their coursework to fewer than nine seminars.

Students holding an MA may also petition the Graduate Adviser for course relief for up to five of the breadth requirements; each approved petition allows the student to substitute elective courses. ENL 200 may not be waived or relieved.

For each waiver or relief request, students must submit to the English Graduate Office a Course Waiver or Relief Request form (available in the office) along with the syllabus from the course and the student's seminar paper.

Designated Emphasis
Graduate students may participate in a Designated Emphasis (DE) , a specialization that might include a new method of inquiry or an important field of application which is related to two or more existing Ph.D. programs. The DE is awarded in conjunction with the Ph.D. degree and is signified by a transcript notation; for example, “Ph.D. in Literature with a Designated Emphasis in Native American Studies.” More information
Preliminary Examination

In the Spring Quarter of the second year or Fall Quarter of the third year of graduate study, students take a Preliminary Examination in two historical fields and one focus field. Three faculty members conduct the oral examination, each representing one of the fields. Prior to taking the Preliminary Examination, students must have completed the following:

• Introduction to Graduate Studies (ENL200) • Survey of Literary Theory (CRI200A or CRI200C) • Four of five Breadth Requirements • Four of five Elective Requirements

Additionally, students select one focus field. A student may devise her/his own focus list in collaboration with two faculty members or, as is more common, choose one from among the following:

• Black Studies • Critical Theory • Disability Studies • Ecocriticism and Environmental Humanities • Feminisms • Film Studies • Marxism • Media Technologies • Performance Studies • Poetics • Postcolonial Theory • Psychoanalysis • Queer Feminisms • Queer Theories • Race and Ethnicity Studies • Science and Literature • Science Fiction

English 299 (Independent Study) is ordinarily used the quarters before the Preliminary Examination to prepare for the oral examination and is graded Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory. Students may register for ENL 299 under the Graduate Advisor or a faculty member in the field of their exam for the quarter(s) they intend to study.

In the event that the student does not pass the exam, the exam chair will report the decision to the Graduate Adviser, who will work with the committee to decide whether the student should be given a chance to retake the exam (no less than six months later) or whether the student should be dismissed from the program. The Graduate Adviser will report this final decision to the student within 72 hours of the exam’s conclusion.

Any remaining requirements after taking the Preliminary Examination must be completed before scheduling the Qualifying Examination.

Students will select two historical fields from among the following list. Students who would like to do non-consecutive historical fields need to get prior approval from the Graduate Adviser. These lists and additional helpful documents can be accessed via our box folder "Preliminary Exam" in the English Graduate Program file.

• 20th Century British • African American Literature 20th Century • American Antebellum, 1800-1865 • American Indian Literature, 1768-present • American Literature Early 20th c., 1900-1945 • American Literature, Later 1945-present • American Literature, Later 19th-c., 1865-1914 • Asian American & Pacific Islander Literature • Colonial - Early American to 1800 • Later Restoration and Eighteenth-Century Literature (1675-1792) • Middle English • Old English (Anglo-Saxon) • Postcolonial Literature • Restoration and Eighteenth Century Literature (1660-1792) • Romanticism (1776-1832) • Seventeenth-Century English Literature From 1604-1675 • Sixteenth-Century Literature From 1485-1603 • Victorian

Qualifying Examination

The Qualifying Examination happens as early as the spring of the third year and should be taken no later than the spring of the fourth year. The reading list for this exam, which is conducted orally, is constructed by the student in consultation with his or her three-person dissertation committee. When making their lists, students may consult the standard lists for preliminary exams available on the department's Box site. If the student has elected a designated emphasis (DE), materials from that field should also be incorporated into the Qualifying Exam reading list.

Graduate Studies requires the Qualifying Examination Application to be submitted at least 30 days prior the the scheduled exam date or it won't be approved.

Qualifying Examination Committee The student, in consultation with their Prospectus Adviser and, if needed, the Graduate Adviser, nominates four faculty to serve on the Qualifying Examination Committee: • The three proposed Dissertation Committee members • One member must be from outside the English graduate program (this may be a member of the Dissertation Committee)

The QE Committee is responsible for administering the exam. Neither the “Prospectus Adviser” nor the Dissertation Director (in many, though not all, cases these will be same) may be the chair of the QE Committee. Students with a designated emphasis (DE) must include one faculty member affiliated with the DE on both their qualifying and dissertation committee. DE paperwork must be approved before the QE application is submitted. The exam will focus on the Prospectus and the Qualifying Exam reading list. The bibliography of the prospectus will normally overlap substantially with the Qualifying Exam reading list.

A Report on the Doctoral Qualifying Examination - PhD must be submitted withing 72 hours of the exam. Upon successful completion submit your Advancement to Candidacy application.

Exam Accommodations
If you are disabled, you are entitled to accommodations for all requirements of the program you’re enrolled in, a process formally handled by the Student Disability Center . We recommend starting the process of coordinating with the SDC early in your graduate school journey, as it can take time for the Center to process information. We must work with the SDC to implement your accommodations for your exams. Please indicate your need for accommodations to us as soon as possible, so we can include the Center in our exam scheduling process. Please notify us by the fourth week of the quarter in which you intend to sit the exam.
Dissertation
The dissertation must be an original work of scholarship and/or interpretation. It may be critical, bibliographical, historical, or biographical in its subject. Students work with a dissertation director and consult with two official readers as well as with other faculty knowledgeable about the project. Additional details

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Literature and Criticism/English, PhD

A student being superimposed in front of a background with writing and a magnifying glass.

Prepare for Your Future with a Doctorate in Literature and Criticism

You want to hone your critical eye—to be a cultural thought leader and an advocate for positive change. IUP’s PhD in Literature and Criticism will prepare you for the board room, classroom, and many places in between.

You’ll become an expert researcher, a sharp cultural and historical analyst, and an effective communicator. Explore research areas such as:

British, US, and world literature
Emerging fields, including popular literature, video game studies, and digital literature
Film studies

Why Choose IUP for an English PhD?

The doctorate in literature and criticism program mixes traditional and innovative approaches to English studies. You’ll cultivate your interests and pursue research that’s enriched by our diverse community of PhD students across the US and around the world. You'll graduate prepared for a career path that aligns with your passions.

What You'll Learn

As a Literature and Criticism PhD candidate, you’ll learn to:

Conduct deep, sustained research to produce new knowledge.
Engage various audiences and the public in conversations and discussions about literature, film, and games.
Refine your scholarly writing, presentation skills, project management abilities, and diverse pedagogical approaches.
Use your research, analytical, and communication skills in a wide range of professional and community contexts.

Flexible Enrollment Options

Our program offers working professionals and students flexible enrollment options , so you can find the timeline that suites your needs.

Traditional Fall and Spring enrollment
Summers only enrollment
Full year enrollment (Fall, Spring, and Summer)
A flexible combination of the above that is responsive to your working situation

Imagine Your Future

Graduates of the Literature and Criticism PhD program may go on to become:

Faculty at colleges, universities, and community colleges
Leaders at public humanities organizations, including libraries, museums, humanities councils, and think tanks
Content developers and managers
Scholarly and creative writers
Administrators in higher education
Researchers

Classes and Requirements

Whether you’re pursuing a new career, looking to advance in your current field, or embarking on a lifetime of research and scholarship, IUP's Literature and Criticism PhD program will help you get there.

To get a feel for what you’ll study as a PhD candidate, check out our recent course descriptions .

Full Academic Catalog Listing

The course catalog is the official reference for all our degree and course offerings. Check it out for a full listing of the classes available and requirements for this degree.

Flexible Enrollment Options that Work for You

Structured to accommodate working professionals and educators as well as students embarking on a traditional graduate career, IUP 's Literature and Criticism Program offers you a range of options for coursework that are specifically designed to meet your needs and ambitions. You can choose from the following options:

Full-year enrollment (Fall, Spring, and Summer)

Courses can be taken on Zoom, in person, or through a combination of the two. All classes are fully immersive and are designed to promote interaction, community, and career-shaping presentations. Our flexible program:

Enables current teachers and working professionals to pursue a doctoral degree without interrupting their careers.
Offers Fall/Spring students opportunities to interact, learn with, and innovate with students at various stages of their careers.
Emphasizes interaction, collaboration, and the joys of sharing work that we love.
Supports students with scholarships and graduate assistantships.

It is the only program of its kind offered in the United States.

With this adaptable schedule, you can finish your coursework in as few as two years, or you can take your time, accelerating or decelerating your progress as your circumstances admit. You have a total of 8 years to complete the program and graduate with your doctoral degree, but most students graduate within 6 years. Our vigorous, successful, and active alumni network will sustain you during your career here and will provide you with many opportunities for presentations, publications, and teaching opportunities once you graduate.

Admissions Information

There is no deadline to apply for this program. We review applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Before the semester starts, you can look forward to planning your coursework and degree requirements as a new student with your advisor, the Director of the Literature and Criticism Doctoral Program, Dr. Michael T. Williamson. Faculty authored course descriptions are available ahead of time and provide you with the information and guidance that you will need to begin your career in our program.

Lenord Lawson D’17, English Literature and Criticism

I have had a lifelong passion for literature, and my study of comprehensive literary works prepared me to teach American literature in my current position.

Recent Course Descriptions

2023 Fall Course Descriptions
2023 Summer Course Descriptions
2023 Spring Course Descriptions
2022 Fall Course Descriptions
2022 Summer Course Descriptions
2022 Spring Course Descriptions
2021 Summer Course Descriptions
2020 Fall Course Descriptions
2020 Summer Course Descriptions
2019 Summer Course Descriptions
2019 Spring Course Descriptions
2018 Fall Course Descriptions
2018 Summer Course Descriptions
2018 Spring Course Descriptions
2017 Fall Course Descriptions
2017 Summer Course Descriptions

At IUP, You’ll Gain More than a Degree

Immerse yourself in IUP's literature and criticism community to make new connections, expand your thinking, and engage with fellow scholars. Here are just a few ways to do this:

The English Graduate Organization supports the academic success, scholarly development, professional exploration, and social engagement of graduate students in English.
The Center for Digital Humanities and Culture , the Digital Storygame Project, or Humanities Training for Law Enforcement, give you opportunities to explore new interests.

Learn more about the faculty you'll work with during your program.

Dr. Melanie Holm, PhD
Dr. Christopher Orchard, DPhil
Dr. Mike Sell, PhD
Dr. Kenneth Sherwood, PhD
Dr. Todd Thompson, PhD
Dr. Michael T. Williamson, PhD
Dr. Lingyan Yang, PhD

The Latest News from Literature and Criticism

Joining the literature and criticism program means you’ll be part of our community of like-minded thinkers.

Read about faculty scholarship, student achievements, upcoming events, and exciting projects in our annual L&C Program Newsletter. Dive into the newsletter archives to read more .

Financing Your Degree

You have options for financial support in pursuing your doctoral degree at IUP.

Graduate assistantships can reduce your costs while providing hands-on work experience.
Research and travel grants are available to support your pursuits.
Competitive awards enhance your professional profile and résumé.
Federal work-study positions in the program (for eligible students) pay $15–$20/hour.

Admissions Requirements

Before the semester starts, you can look forward to planning your coursework and degree requirements as a new student with your advisor, the director of the Literature and Criticism Doctoral Program, Michael T. Williamson. Faculty-authored course descriptions are available ahead of time and provide you with the information and guidance that you will need to begin your career in our program.

Please note that you cannot transfer credits into this program.

Application Requirements

To be accepted to the program, you must meet all minimum application requirements for graduate studies at IUP.

Official transcripts from all universities you attended.
A minimum grade point average of 3.0 or equivalent for your bachelor's degree
A master's degree in English or a related area.
Who you are as a thinker, scholar, and writer?
What experiences have prepared you for doctoral studies?
How do you define your personal and professional goals?
Why do you want to join the program?
Two letters of recommendation that discuss academic performance and your potential for doctoral studies.
A résumé or Curriculum Vitae.
A 15- to 25-page writing sample of previous academic work.
GRE scores are optional, but please submit them if you feel they help your application.

For International Students

If you are looking to join IUP from a different country, you will need the following to apply as a student in the Literature and Criticism PhD program:

Official TOEFL scores (minimum score of 590) or IELTS scores (minimum score of 7.0), if applicable.
the cost of travel to and from your native country
the cost of the graduate education at IUP.

Please work directly with IUP's Office of International Education on your application:

Office of International Education Delaney Hall, Suite B25 920 Grant Street Indiana, PA 15705 Phone: +1-724-357-2295 Email: [email protected]

Through our Office of International Education, you will work with an international student advisor to receive the information you need, including documentation for a visa.

Application Process

We review applications on a rolling basis throughout the year for the PhD program. We strongly recommend early applications to secure your spot and begin your English doctoral studies in your preferred time frame. There is no deadline to apply for this program.

Please apply online by creating your IUP Admissions Profile , and submit all required documents electronically through your profile. For any questions about the process, contact our Admissions office at 724-357-2222 or [email protected] .

After we receive your completed application, the English Department's Graduate Literature Admissions Committee will review it and make an admissions recommendation. Our Admissions Office will then notify you of the decision.

Program Handbook and Degree Documents

When it comes to managing your degree, being organized is vital to your success. In order to stay on track, below is a list of handbooks, guides, and other documents that are important to your degree progress, including the handbook for the PhD in Literature and Criticism, which will give you valuable information about the doctoral program. View or download the documents below and use them as a guide as you work toward your degree.

Handbook for the PhD in Literature and Criticism
Graduate Catalog
Doctoral Student Checklist
Progress Towards Degree Form
Candidacy Portfolio Guidelines
Comprehensive Exam Instructions
Acting Advisor Notification Form
L&C Program Dissertation Rotation Policy
Thesis/Dissertation Manual
Literature and Criticism Dissertation Defense Guidelines
Timeline for Acting Advisor and Dissertation Director

Schools & departments

English Literature PhD

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: English Literature

Introduction to Postgraduate Study at the University of Edinburgh

Join us online on 25 September to learn more about Scotland, the city of Edinburgh and postgraduate study at the University.

Find out more and register

Research profile

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.

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 PhD study.

Our interdisciplinary environment brings together specialists in all periods and genres of literature and literary analysis.

Research excellence

Based on our performance in the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF), over 90 per cent of our research and impact is classed as world-leading and internationally excellent by Research Professional. 69 per cent is graded at the world-leading level – the highest of REF’s four categories.

In Times Higher Education's REF analysis, English at Edinburgh is ranked fifth in the UK (out of more than 90 institutions) for:

the overall quality of our publications and other outputs
the impact of our research on people’s lives
our supportive research environment

Given the breadth and depth of our expertise, we are able to support students wishing to develop research projects in any field of Anglophone literary studies. These include American studies, literary and critical theory, the history of the book, gender and sexuality studies, and global Anglophone literatures - where our specialisms include Pacific, African, South Asian, and African-American writing.

We have particular strengths in each of the main periods of English and Scottish Literature:

Renaissance/early modern
Enlightenment
21st century
Contemporary

Emergent research themes in the department include the digital humanities, the economic humanities, the environmental humanities and literature and medicine.

Explore our range of research centres, networks and projects in English and Scottish Literature

Working with colleagues elsewhere in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures, and across the wider University, we are able to support PhD theses crossing boundaries between disciplines and/or languages.

Be inspired by the range of PhD research in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures

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 usually between 80,000 and 100,000 words.

You will be awarded your doctorate if your thesis is judged to be of an appropriate standard, and your research makes a definite contribution to knowledge.

Read our pre-application guidance on writing a PhD research proposal

Go beyond the books

Beyond the Books is a podcast from the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC) that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at research and the people who make it happen.

Listen to a mix of PhD, early career and established researchers talk about their journey to and through academia and about their current and recent research.

Browse Beyond the Books episodes and hear our research community talk about their work

Training and support

Between the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC), the Careers Service, and the Institute for Academic Development (IAD), you’ll find a range of programmes and resources to help you develop your postgraduate skills.

You will also have access to the University’s fantastic libraries, collections and worldwide strategic partnerships.

Part of a community

As part of our research community, you will be immersed in a world of knowledge exchange, with lots of opportunities to share ideas, learning and creative work.

Activities 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 led by PhD candidates.

Highlights include student reading for the James Tait Black Prizes, Britain's oldest literary awards which typically involve reading submissions across fiction and biography and advising the judges on the shortlists.

Read an interview with 2022 James Tait Black reader, Céleste Callen

Our graduates tell us that they value the friendliness of the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC), the connections they make here and the in-depth guidance they receive from our staff, who are published experts in their field.

A UNESCO World City of Literature, Edinburgh is a remarkable place to study, write, publish, discuss and perform prose, poetry and drama.

Take a PhD with us and you will be based in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC) in the historic centre of this world-leading festival city.

You will have access to the University’s many literary treasures. These include the libraries of:

William Drummond
Lewis Grassic Gibbon
Hugh MacDiarmid
Norman MacCaig

The Centre for Research Collections holds the W.H. Auden collection; the Corson Collection of works by and about Sir Walter Scott; and the Ramage collection of poetry pamphlets.

It also holds a truly exceptional collection of early Shakespeare quartos and other early modern printed plays put together by the 19th century Shakespearean James Halliwell-Phillipps, the correspondence of Thomas and Jane Welsh Carlyle (the focus of one of the major editorial projects in Victorian studies of the last half-century), and the extensive Laing collection of medieval and early modern manuscripts, as well as letters and papers by - and relating to - authors including:

Christopher Isherwood
Rudyard Kipling
John Middleton Murry
Walter de la Mare
George Mackay Brown
Compton Mackenzie

Many of the University's Special Collections are digitised and available online from our excellent Resource Centre, Computing Labs, and dedicated PhD study space in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC).

Look inside the PhD study space in LLC

In the city

Our buildings are close to the National Library of Scotland (where collections include the Bute Collection of early modern English drama and the John Murray Archive), Edinburgh Central Library, Scottish Poetry Library, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Writers’ Museum and a fantastic range of publishing houses, bookshops, and theatres.

We have strong links with the Edinburgh International Book Festival, which annually welcomes around 1,000 authors to our literary city.

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK masters, or its international equivalent, with a mark of at least 65% in your English literature dissertation of at least 10,000 words.

If your masters programme did not include a dissertation or included a dissertation that was unmarked or less than 10,000 words, you will be expected to produce an exceptional research proposal and personal statement to show your ability to undertake research at the level required by this programme.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

Entry requirements by country
English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Read our general information on tuition fees and studying costs:

Scholarships and funding

Featured funding.

There are a number of scholarship schemes available to eligible candidates on this PhD programme, including awards from the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

Please be advised that many scholarships have more than one application stage, and early deadlines.

Find out more about scholarships in literatures, languages and cultures

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

Search for funding

Further information

Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4086
Contact: [email protected]
School of Literatures, Languages & Cultures
50 George Square
Central Campus
Programme: English Literature
School: Literatures, Languages & Cultures
College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

This programme is not currently accepting applications. Applications for the next intake usually open in October.

Start date: September 2024

Awards: PhD (36 mth FT, 72 mth PT)

Application deadlines

Due to high demand, the school operates a number of selection deadlines. We will make a small number of offers to the most outstanding candidates on an ongoing basis, but hold the majority of applications until the next published selection deadline when we will offer a proportion of the places available to applicants selected through a competitive process.

Deadlines for applicants applying to study in 2024/25:

Round	Application deadline	Places awarded by
1	24 November 2023	15 December 2023
2	30 April 2024	14 June 2024

How to apply

The online application process involves the completion of a web form and the submission of supporting documents.

For a PhD programme, you should include:

a sample of written work of about 3,000 words (this can be a previous piece of work from an undergraduate or masters degree)
a research proposal - a detailed description of what you hope to achieve and how
Pre-application guidance

Before you formally apply for this PhD, you should look at the pre-application information and guidance on the programme website.

This will help you decide if this programme is right for you, and help us gain a clearer picture of what you hope to achieve.

The guidance will also give you practical advice for writing your research proposal – one of the most important parts of your application.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

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Online Courses /

Top 5 Hybrid and Online PhD in English

Updated on
Aug 27, 2024

Choosing the right and appropriate Online PhD program in English is essential because these courses can be difficult and time-consuming. As a result, it’s critical to pick a program that offers enough assistance and is aligned with your long-term objectives. It can be difficult to choose the best online PhD program in English because there are so many possibilities. Here we have come up with our research part and listed the best programs. These programs have been chosen because they are excellent in terms of academic quality, student support, program outcomes, and affordability, even though we are still working on producing our full rankings list.


PhD in Creative Writing and English Literature	Study Portal
English (Online) PhD	University of Nottingham
Online English PhD Program	Texas A&M University
100% online English literacy PhD programs
Hybrid Online English PhD Program	Old Dominion University’s

This Blog Includes:

Phd in creative writing and english literature, english (online) phd, online english phd program , 100% online english literacy phd programs, hybrid online english phd program, advantages of pursuing online and hybrid phd in english , list of best hybrid and online phd in english.

There are various hybrid and online PhDs in English available for you. Here is a list of some of the of the best online degrees we mentioned in the below table:

Learn about the PhD in Creative Writing and English Literature course below:

Manchester Metropolitan University’s Creative Writing and English Literature program is research-based. You will study a subject of your choosing or one we promote on your own. Throughout your studies, your supervisory team will provide knowledgeable direction and evaluate your work in progress. You will participate in an annual training and development program to improve your professional abilities, subject-matter knowledge, and research methodologies.

Duration	3 years
Fee	1,990,737 INR/year
Offered By	Manchester Metropolitan University
Oct 2024	Start date
Mode	Online

Website: https://www.phdportal.com/studies/376907/creative-writing-and-english-literature.html?ref=search_card#content:key_facts

Boost Your Career with These Top 10 Highest Paying IT Certification Courses in 2024

Learn about the English (Online) PhD course offered by the University of Nottingham below:

The majority of a PhD in English consists of independent study, with supervision meetings spaced out across the year and conducted virtually (using Microsoft Teams, for example). A PhD has no teaching credits associated with it; instead, full-time students are required to participate in the online Arts Faculty Researcher Skills training program. During the duration of their registration, part-time students must participate in all mandatory research training, attend one postgraduate researcher (PGR) symposium, and postgraduate seminars when feasible.

Duration	96 months
Fee	UK fees: £5,350International fees: £23,000
Offered By	University of Nottingham
Start Date	October 2025, February 2026
Mode	Online

Website: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/course/research/english-online-phd

Learn about the English PhD Program Online offered by the Texas A&M University below:

Online or mixed classroom for English PhD programs. In order to gain practical classroom experience, eligible students can also take part in tutoring or teaching assistantship programs offered by Texas A&M University that allow admittance in the fall, spring, and summer, which sets it apart from many other programs and allows you to begin your studies whenever it’s most convenient for you. Specialization options will not be desired by English majors enrolled in Texas A&M’s program. The school offers three focuses that are specific to literature in addition to two specialities in written discourse.

Duration	4 to 5 years
Fee	NA
Offered By	Texas A&M University
Start Date	NA
Mode	Hybrid and Online

Website: https://www.tamuc.edu/programs/english-phd-applied-linguistics/

Learn about the 100% online English literacy PhD programs offered by the St. John’s University below:

If you are interested in learning literacy. Enrol in St. John’s University’s PhD program in Literacy to equip yourself to assist students from all backgrounds in overcoming obstacles to reading competency and excelling throughout their academic journey. This program is one of the few online doctoral programs in literacy in the country. In as little as three years, you can graduate prepared to work with students, teachers, and administrators to improve learning in every subject area.

Duration	2.5 years
Fee	NA
Offered By	Texas A&M University
Start Date	NA
Mode	100% online

Here is a list of the 5 Best Robotics Engineering Online Degrees and Courses with Certificates

Learn about the Hybrid Online English PhD Program offered by Old Dominion University’s below:

This Hybrid Program is offered by ODU Global which helps you to learn about Writing, rhetoric, discourse, technology, and textual studies. The program offers a flexible approach to advanced English studies, combining the convenience of online learning with in-person interactions. Students primarily take courses online but also participate in on-campus residencies, workshops, or seminars. This format caters to working professionals or those with geographic constraints. Programs typically focus on areas like literature, writing, rhetoric, or English education.

Duration	2.5 years
Fee	NA
Offered By	Old Dominion University’s
Start Date	NA
Mode	Hybrid or Online

Website: https://online.odu.edu/academics/programs/english-phd

Online PhD programs are made to provide flexibility and convenience to support your academic goals, regardless of your circumstances, such as working full-time, raising a family, or living far from school. Just two of the many advantages of earning an online and hybrid PhD in English are as follows:

There are many different formats available for online doctorate programs in English, so you can choose the one that best suits your requirements. Certain programs, for instance, don’t require students to log in at a certain time in order to attend class because they are entirely online.
Real-time instruction combined with online learning is used in schools to keep pupils motivated and on task. Others host doctorate candidates on campus for specific courses or summer institutes. With so many alternatives at your disposal, you’re sure to find a top-notch program that fits your lifestyle.
You can choose a program that fits your academic interests and professional aspirations when pursuing an online and hybrid PhD in English. If you’re fortunate enough to reside close to a college town, your local institution might not offer a PhD program in English or its offerings might be restricted.
Although a lot of students relocate to pursue graduate school, not everyone has that opportunity. This implies that you don’t have to leave your home to enrol in a specialized school in order to pursue a PhD in medieval rhetoric or post-colonial theory and critique.

Here is a list of some of the 5 Top Fire Protection Engineering Online Degrees

Is Online PhD Acceptable in India? Indian universities do not provide online PhD programs since the University Grants Commission (UGC) has not sanctioned them. In addition, there are additional options that are appropriate everywhere in the world and are specially made for working professionals.

The UGC has not approved the PhD program, so it is not offered remotely in India. Candidates may enrol in this course normally.

Two Indian accrediting authorities, UGC and AICTE, do not recognise these kinds of online courses. It is therefore best to thoroughly investigate the legitimacy of any course you wish to take. Particularly when it’s an online PhD, the greatest degree you will ever pursue.

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Aditya Saini is a content writer with over a year and a half of experience helping national and international students navigate their journey to work abroad. His expertise lies in “jobs abroad”, all things practical, from writing articles on different topics such as part-time and full-time jobs to understanding salaries for different and highest-paying professions and securing internship programs in different countries. Aditya's passion is ensuring students have all the information they need to make the right decision about their career journeys overseas.

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Information for Prospective Ph.D. Students

Application deadlines, the appliation for fall 2025 will be available in september 2024. application deadline is december 1 2024..

PhD Admissions Open House Want a PhD in English? Why NYU? New York University, Department of English

Friday, October 20, 2023 at 11:00AM EST https://nyu.zoom.us/j/91310527661 (approximately 1 hour)

2022 Open House: Zoom Recording

Are you considering a PhD in English? Come meet faculty and graduate students from the NYU Department of English, who will share their experiences about the structure and culture of the program. You will get a quick overview of what a degree here entails, including the university’s new Advanced Certificate in Public Humanities. We hope to highlight what we (and New York City’s landscape of civic and arts institutions and archives) can offer you as you prepare for a future in teaching, research, and writing.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Your application to the PhD program should consist of the following components:

The Online Application .
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume. This should provide an overview of your academic and, if applicable, professional experience.
A Statement of Academic Purpose. The work of the faculty of the Department of English at NYU is characterized by a wide variety of interdisciplinary approaches, encompassing literary history, theory, and criticism, as well as careful reflection on the methods of literary study. We are especially interested in graduate students who will be comfortable bridging historical periods in their reading and writing, and who are curious about a wide variety of approaches to literary studies. The admissions committee requires from all applicants a statement of academic purpose, which will be judged as a piece of writing. It will use this statement to evaluate how well your aspirations and interests suit those of the Department of English at NYU. This statement of academic purpose should be succinct (no more than 1200 words) and address most, if not all, of the following questions: What kinds (genres, styles, forms, etc.) of literature most engage you? What, for you, is the purpose of reading literature critically? Are there particular kinds of criticism/theoretical approaches/methods of literary study that you would like to work within or learn more about? How have your intellectual and scholarly interests been shaped by your time outside and beyond the college classroom? In the light of the description above, do you have a particular reason for wishing to work within the Department of English at New York University?
A Writing Sample of academic literary criticism is required. It should demonstrate your strongest work in that mode and should not exceed 20-25 double-spaced pages, including any bibliography or notes.
Three Letters of Recommendation . It is important to have strong letters of recommendation that come from professors and instructors who know you and are familiar with the your academic work. Applicants who have been out of school for several years should make every effort to reconnect with former teachers to ensure that their letters of recommendation address their academic preparation and abilities and their readiness to pursue the degree for which they are applying. http://gsas.nyu.edu/admissions/gsas-application-resource-center/faqs/letters-of-recommendation.html
Transcript . An official, electronic copy of your transcript.For further Admissions information, please visit http://gsas.nyu.edu/admissions/gsas-application-resource-center/faqs/academic-transcripts.html
TOEFL or IELTS: TOEFL or the IELTS is required of all applicants who are not native English speakers or who do not have a bachelor's or master's degree from an institution where the language of instruction is English. http://gsas.nyu.edu/admissions/gsas-application-resource-center/faqs/testing-requirements.html

All accepted Ph.D. students in English receive up to five years of funding through the Graduate School’s MacCracken program. In 2024-2025 students will receive a $35,000 stipend for nine months, plus a full tuition scholarship, registration and services fees, and full coverage of NYU student health insurance for an individual under the comprehensive plan. The MacCracken award includes a one-time $1,000 Dean's Supplementary Fellowship Grant. This grant is intended to provide support for start-up research and educational expenses such as books, academic supplies, and computer equipment. In addition, the Department of English offers a one-time $3,000 Supplementary Grant that may be used at the student's discretion and a $7,000 summer stipend during your first and second years of study and $3,000 summer stipend for your third year of study. While teaching is not required as a condition of the MacCracken award, the English Department still sees teaching as crucial to the professional development of its doctoral candidates. We therefore expect that our Ph.D. students will teach for four semesters starting after the second year of study, typically scheduled across the third through fifth years. Students who participate fully in the department's teaching program will receive in excess of $22,000 in adjunct-instructor compensation for their four semesters of teaching service, over and above the fellowship stipend payments they will receive during the term of the MacCracken award.

The English Ph.D. program is designed to be completed within the five-year term for which the MacCracken award ensures full funding. However, students can arrange to set aside as much as half of the fellowship stipend they receive during each semester in which they teach, to be drawn on at later points in the period of their enrollment. Thus if they follow the Department’s recommendation and teach for a total of four semesters during the MacCracken term, they can guarantee themselves an additional year of full funding in case they require a sixth year of matriculation in order to secure employment and complete the degree.

Teaching opportunities primarily include serving as a recitation leader in general education courses in the undergraduate college, and in departmental undergraduate survey courses. Students who follow the department's teaching protocol will be assigned to a range of different courses over their four semesters of service, and will thereby achieve the breadth of literacy-historical knowledge appropriate to doctorate holders in the discipline. Students who forgo teaching may be required to demonstrate the breadth of their literary-historical knowledge through other means.

If your question is not answered, please contact the director of graduate admissions, Jenny Mann.

Open House for Newly Admitted Doctoral Students

Students who are admitted to the Ph.D. program are invited to attend our annual Open House for Newly Admitted Doctoral Students, which this year will take place on (dates to be determined). Admitted students will be asked to arrive in New York City the afternoon of (TBA), when there will be an informal cocktail party with English Department faculty and current students. Scheduled events on (TBA) will allow admitted students the opportunity to interact with faculty as well as current graduate students and other admitted, prospective students, attend classes and tour the campus.

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Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) Lead the Charge: Empower Your Team

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If you are a leader in business, you know that building a strong team starts with you. You have the experience, the skills, and the work ethic to help your team push through barriers to success. However, with business changing every day, you need new tools, skills, and strategies to make sure you stay ahead of the curve.

Our 100% online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree is designed to give you both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in leadership. Our Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) program focuses on a variety of leadership principles essential to effective business management, with courses culminating in an applied doctoral research project. In our doctorate of strategic leadership degree program, you can learn the skills you need to excel in the top tiers of the corporate world.

Our online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree can equip you to lead as a business management professional. Through our doctorate in strategic leadership, you can learn how to direct organizational change, become an effective servant leader, and implement principles of executive management theory. With Liberty’s mission to Train Champions for Christ , you will also learn new strategies for integrating a Christian worldview into your business practices.

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Your success matters to us. That’s why we’ve designed our Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree to meet your needs as a professional, a student, and an individual. Our doctorate of strategic leadership degree is offered in a 100% online flexible program format and has no set login times. This format means you can complete your DSL online classes without having to travel to a campus.

Our online format gives you the freedom you need to complete your coursework when and where you want – without disrupting your current lifestyle and responsibilities. With our 8-week courses and summer semester, you will have the ability to maximize your time and finish your online doctor of leadership degree sooner than you would in a traditional, on-campus program.

When you choose to pursue your online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree with us, you are choosing a program from a school that constantly pushes for quality. Liberty University is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). This accreditation means that Liberty University’s doctoral programs meet high standards for academic rigor and quality that can help you stand out in the field.

What Will You Study in Our Online Leadership Doctorate?

When you choose our Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree program, you will be provided with a challenging and rewarding curriculum that seeks to hone your leadership skills. In our DSL program, you can learn how to apply biblical servant leadership principles to business management. You will also develop skills in the analysis, planning, implementation, and evaluation of both the social and technical systems of business organizations. Here at Liberty, we can give you the education you need to be a Champion for Christ as you lead in the business world.

Liberty’s online doctorate in leadership and management is designed to give you new skills and strategies to use with your experience and knowledge to solve real-world problems in the field. As such, your final doctoral project will focus on applying what you’ve learned to a specific problem in your industry that you can approach with your new skills.

Potential Career Opportunities

Company executive
Management analyst
Management consultant
Training and development specialist

Featured Courses

BMAL 702 – Leadership Theory
BMAL 714 – Risk Management Process and Practice
BMAL 720 – Leveraging Data for Decision Making
BMAL 727 – Leading Effective Teams

Degree Information

The DSL program falls under our School of Business .
View the Graduate Business Course Guides (login required) .
Review the Doctor of Strategic Leadership Handbook for details on the DSL degree program’s mission and foundational values.

Degree Completion Plan

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Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

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Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Admission Information Our Online Doctoral Degree in Leadership

Admission requirements.

A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

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Veterans/Retirees
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Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

While researching doctorate degrees in strategic leadership, you may have questions about how this program can help meet your goals. Here are some common questions about Liberty’s DSL program.

What is a Doctor of Strategic Leadership? What is a DSL degree?

Liberty University’s Doctor of Strategic Leadership or DSL degree is a practical doctorate focused on applying effective leadership skills to solve business problems. Unlike many PhD programs, a DSL degree is a professional doctorate focused on applying your experience to real-world problems in business leadership. If you want to retool with new skills and strategies to apply your experience in new and effective ways, then Liberty University’s leadership program will help you get the training you need.

Is a doctorate worth it?

With a masters degree alone, you may run into limitations of where your skills and education can take you. You have the experience and the knowledge from years in the field, but you may struggle to demonstrate your expertise in a way that helps you stand out. With a doctorate, you can develop those skills further into a more effective toolset that can help you tackle even more difficult and important business problems, all while demonstrating that you are a top expert in your field.

Can you teach with a professional doctorate?

As a practical, results-based doctorate, Liberty University’s online Doctor of Strategic Leadership program is designed to help you show that you are an expert in the field of business leadership. While this degree is a practical, professionally focused program, it still provides the opportunity to teach at the college level.

Most universities require that you have a doctorate in order to teach masters or even some bachelors courses. This requirement means that earning your doctorate in leadership and management online can help you take advantage of teaching opportunities as well as increase your potential in the field. You may also be eligible for educational leadership roles with your specialized skills and doctorate.

What resources will be available to me in this program?

You will be granted access to a wide variety of online resources through Liberty University’s library portal.

How do I choose between a Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Leadership?

A Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) is a professional degree that provides you with the opportunity to develop practical skills. Regardless of career field, these skills may be applicable in leadership roles. If your goal is to advance your career and develop valuable skills, this program may be the right next step.

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Strategic Leadership program may focus more on original research and less on practical skills. This program may be useful if your career aspirations lay in the world of academia.

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