Program Overview
The University of Kansas offers a distinguished PhD in English program designed for scholars pursuing advanced study in language, rhetoric, literature, and creative writing. This rigorous doctoral program prepares graduates for careers in academia, publishing, research, and related fields. Through close faculty mentorship, specialized seminars, and extensive research opportunities, students in the PhD in English develop a deep understanding of English studies while contributing original scholarship and creative work to the discipline.
The PhD in English at KU is structured around two primary concentrations:
- Rhetoric and Composition: Focuses on rhetorical theory, writing studies, literacy, and the teaching of writing across diverse contexts and technologies.
- Literature & Creative Writing: Integrates advanced literary scholarship with research-informed creative practice in fiction, poetry, and related genres.
The PhD in English Literature concentration emphasizes critical analysis, cultural theory, genre studies, and historically grounded literary scholarship across periods and global traditions. Students examine texts within social, political, and transnational contexts while developing advanced research agendas.
The Literature & Creative Writing concentration also supports those pursuing a PhD in creative writing, offering advanced workshops alongside scholarly seminars that integrate creative production with critical reflection. Students pursuing the PhD creative writing pathway refine their artistic voice while situating their work within broader literary conversations.
Faculty expertise spans rhetoric and composition studies, British and American literature, global Anglophone literatures, digital humanities, speculative fiction, feminist and gender studies, and creative writing. Doctoral students in this english doctorate program benefit from individualized advising, professional development opportunities, and pedagogical training that prepares them for teaching and leadership roles in higher education.
Learn more about KU
Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
English, Ph.D.KU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Doctorate in English is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Doctorate in English Learning Outcomes
Graduates of KU’s PhD in English program will:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of major texts, critical debates, and theoretical approaches within their chosen concentration.
- Conduct independent, original research that makes a substantive contribution to rhetoric and composition studies, literary scholarship, or creative writing.
- Apply sophisticated research methodologies appropriate to their field of specialization.
- Produce sustained scholarly or creative work that reflects disciplinary standards of excellence.
- Demonstrate excellence in teaching through informed pedagogical practices.
- Communicate complex ideas effectively to both academic and broader audiences.
These outcomes ensure that graduates with an English PhD credential are prepared for leadership in research, teaching, publishing, and public scholarship.
What Careers are Possible with a Doctorate in English?
A PhD in English from KU prepares graduates for a range of intellectually rigorous and creative professions. According to Lightcast, individuals with advanced training in English studies often pursue careers such as:
- University professor
- Academic researcher
- Publishing editor
- Professional writer
- Content strategist
Doctoral training emphasizes transferable skills including research design, persuasive communication, critical analysis, and project management — competencies that support both academic and non-academic career pathways.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates for its PhD in English students. Financial aid opportunities, assistantships, and scholarships are available to help offset costs. For more information, visit the KU Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
Admission to the PhD in English program at KU requires the following:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, including official transcripts
- A strong undergraduate record, particularly in the humanities, is expected
- Resume/CV
- A statement of approximately 500 words describing your interests, training, experience (including teaching experience), academic ability, and goals
- Three letters of recommendation from three professors
- Applicants interested in Rhetoric & Composition or Literature must provide two examples of academic writing. Applicants interested in Creative Writing must submit one example of creative writing (prose, poetry, or a one-act play), and one example of academic writing. Recommended sample length between 8-20 pages.
For full details, visit the English Department.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the PhD in English engage in rigorous coursework, collaborative scholarship, and professional development opportunities designed to prepare them for competitive academic and creative careers. Doctoral students benefit from:
- Access to extensive research library collections and archival resources
- Opportunities to present research at regional, national, and international conferences
- Participation in writing groups, workshops, and colloquia
- Teaching experience in composition and literature courses
- Mentorship from faculty actively publishing in rhetoric, literary studies, and creative writing
Doctorate in English Sample Courses
The PhD in English curriculum includes advanced seminars and workshops designed to deepen disciplinary expertise and refine research methodologies. Courses vary by concentration but may include:
- Problems & Principles - Animal Studies
- Composing Disability
- British Novels to 1850
- Reading Novels for Craft
Students complete coursework, comprehensive examinations, and a dissertation or creative dissertation project that reflects original and sustained intellectual inquiry. For a full list of courses and degree requirements, visit the KU Catalog.
Doctorate in English Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are due Jan. 6.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in 5-7 years.
Why Pursue a PhD in English at KU?
KU’s PhD in English program provides a comprehensive education that emphasizes both historical depth and innovative approaches to language and textual study. Students engage with major theoretical traditions, explore interdisciplinary methodologies, and participate in a vibrant intellectual community within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.