English, PhD
The Department offers full-time M.A. and Ph.D. programs. Comprehensive in their range of specializations, these programs are intellectually dynamic and rigorous. Our M.A. program offers students a solid foundation in the professional study of literature and culture, and our Ph.D. program prepares students for full participation in the profession as scholars and teachers of English and American literature, broadly conceived. Over seventy graduate students enjoy close interaction with thirty-eight internationally renowned faculty members in the Department who teach and publish on a large number of historical periods, theoretical areas, and methodological approaches.
Our Department culture reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that is at once challenging and supportive. We recognize that success in our profession requires more than taking courses, passing exams, writing a dissertation, attending conferences, and publishing articles; it also involves the recognition that we produce new knowledge collectively. Accordingly, we consider our graduate students full members of the Department and encourage everyone to take an active role in the intellectual and social community of the Department as well as other programs and departments across campus.
View the Graduate Handbook: http://www.english.upenn.edu/graduate/handbook.
For more information: http://www.english.upenn.edu/
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Sample Plan of Study
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 6000 | Proseminar | 1 |
| ENGL 8000 | Teaching of Literature and Composition | 1 |
| ENGL 8500 | Field List | 1 |
| ENGL 8510 | Dissertation Proposal | 1 |
| ENGL Seminar Courses at the 7000 Level | 5 | |
| Elective Seminars 1 | 11 | |
| Additional Requirements | ||
| First Year Oral Exam (50-Book Exam) | ||
| Field Exam | ||
| Language Requirement | ||
| Students must demonstrate proficiency in two languages | ||
| Teaching Requirement | ||
| One semester of teaching is required | ||
| Total Course Units | 20 | |
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
- 1
Each student must take courses that fulfill six distribution requirements:
- One course pre-1700
- One course 1700-1900
- One course post-1900
- One course on literature of the Americas
- One course on literature outside the Americas
- One course in Minority literature (racial, ethnic, gender, sexuality)
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.