PhD in World Languages and Cultures - Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies in Salt Lake City United States | University of Utah

The PhD program in Comparative Literary and Cultural Studies (CLCS) stands out for its distinctive blend of specialized focus and wide-ranging exploration, fostering creative connections across multiple academic disciplines. Candidates are required to select at least two language/culture specializations in addition to English. Those concentrating on European studies generally select literature, culture, and theory courses from two or more of the Department's primary graduate concentrations (Spanish, French, and German). The program also features robust options in Middle Eastern languages and literatures as a key component. Furthermore, advanced students may design customized study plans incorporating faculty specialties spanning diverse fields such as Japanese and Chinese literature, Russian studies, classical texts, and more. All participants will enroll in theory and thematic seminars conducted in English that integrate fundamental concepts from various disciplines. The program actively supports flexible combinations of coursework and research themes—a philosophy that extends through comprehensive exams, independent projects, and dissertation work.