Marquette University

What you'll study

The degree requires 54 hours of coursework beyond the BA, including a minimum of 24 hours beyond the MA, plus 12 dissertation credits. Components specified by the department include:

• Theory and Methods: 3–6 credits; listed courses include 6820 Studies in Modern Theory and Practice and 6965 Practicum in Teaching Writing (for TAs).
• Electives: 18 credits, at least 9 of which must be at the 6000 level or above.
• Dissertation Preparation and Research: Dissertation Tutorial 8830 (3 credits) and Dissertation Credits 8999 (12 credits).
• Examinations: The Doctoral Qualifying Exam is an oral examination by three faculty examiners covering a primary field (tied to the proposed dissertation) and a contextual/secondary field; both fields derive from work in English 8830.
• Dissertation: Expected to demonstrate organization, significant exploration, and original insight; typically requires 18–24 months to complete. Students must follow the Graduate School's Dissertation Directives.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a GPA of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale. Admission to the doctoral program requires a Master of Arts degree and adequate preparation in English and related subjects. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL).

Application materials include a completed online application and fee, transcripts from all colleges/universities (final official transcripts required within the first five weeks after admission), at least two letters of recommendation (three preferred), a statement of purpose, and one or two writing samples that reflect the work the applicant wishes to pursue at Marquette. To be considered for fall admission, application materials should be received by January 15.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared primarily for academic careers—teaching and research in colleges and universities—but the program notes that the skills developed (research, critical analysis, writing, and pedagogy) can transfer to a range of workplaces. The degree is designed to produce scholars capable of publishing and teaching in British, American, or other Anglophone literatures.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Merit-based support such as graduate assistantships and fellowships is available on a competitive basis; teaching and research assistantships are common funding mechanisms for doctoral candidates. U.S. citizens and permanent residents may also be eligible for need-based federal loans. Private scholarships may supplement departmental awards.