PhD in English - Literary Studies in Madison United States | University of Wisconsin-Madison

PhD candidates specializing in literary studies qualify for an MA in English upon fulfilling initial doctoral requirements, as this track doesn't offer a standalone master's program. This intensive specialization guides students toward completing a dissertation across various domains of English, American, or global Anglophone literature and culture, as well as literary theory and criticism. Designed to equip graduates for academic careers and beyond, the program balances deep theoretical engagement with comprehensive exploration of Anglophone literary traditions. Early-stage doctoral seminars help students cultivate research skills for their dissertation work. Throughout their PhD journey, students can explore interdisciplinary focus areas including: critical theory, visual culture studies, environmental humanities, global literatures, cultural artifacts, publishing history, digital scholarship, disability discourse, gender analysis, racial and ethnic studies, feminist frameworks, queer literary studies, and postcolonial perspectives. The curriculum also incorporates teaching and administrative experiences in writing and literature instruction.