PhD in English - Writing Studies in Urbana United States | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The English Department provides graduate programs culminating in Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. We invite dedicated students to advance their knowledge of English, American, and Anglophone language, literature, and film beyond undergraduate studies. Our Ph.D. program primarily prepares academic professionals for teaching and research roles in higher education institutions nationwide. The M.A. program serves as the foundational phase for doctoral studies, with most students expected to continue toward their Ph.D. Consequently, we do not maintain a standalone terminal M.A. program. Both graduate degrees can be pursued with a Writing Studies specialization, and Ph.D. candidates in other disciplines may also obtain a Writing Studies concentration. Current master's degree holders must formally apply for Ph.D. admission, as must external applicants with completed master's degrees. Admission is rarely granted to candidates with graduate GPAs below 3.5. Doctoral candidates must select either Literature or Writing Studies as their primary focus, with the option to pursue the Writing Studies concentration. The Ph.D. program typically requires four to five years of study post-M.A., often combined with teaching responsibilities.