Cornell University

Overview

The PhD program in Asian Literature, Religion, and Culture at Cornell University provides comprehensive training in the diverse literary, religious, and cultural landscapes of East, South, and Southeast Asia. This advanced course emphasizes original research utilizing primary sources while engaging with significant scholarly debates in various regional and thematic areas.

What you'll study

The curriculum is designed to foster deep understanding through a combination of advanced seminars, language preparation, and dissertation research. Students will cover essential components, including:

• Graduate coursework focusing on Asian literature, religion, culture, and intellectual history.
• Specialization in either East Asian, South Asian, or Southeast Asian traditions, allowing for in-depth exploration of unique literary and cultural contexts.
• Language training in relevant Asian languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Vietnamese to support primary-source research.
• Examinations and milestones that align with doctoral study requirements.
• Dissertation research culminating in an original thesis that contributes to the field.

Core areas of study

• Asian Religions
• East Asian Literature and Culture
• South Asian Literature and Culture
• Southeast Asian Literature and Culture
• Intellectual History
• Literary Traditions of Asia
• Cultural Traditions of Asia
• Religious Thought and Practice

Dissertation

The dissertation is a critical piece of the program, requiring students to conduct original research and demonstrate proficiency in relevant languages and scholarly methodologies within their chosen area of study.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• GRE: Submission of the GRE General Test is mandatory.
• Recommendations: Candidates must provide three letters of recommendation.
• Academic writing sample: A writing sample of approximately 25 pages is required.
• Language preparation: A minimum of three years of study in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Vietnamese.

English language requirements

• TOEFL iBT: Accepted with a minimum score requirement.
• IELTS: A minimum score of 7 is required.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program can pursue a variety of academic and professional paths, including roles in higher education, research, cultural institutions, and international relations, equipped with a profound understanding of Asia's literary and cultural heritage.