New York University

USA
2 Scholarships 149 Programs 3 Degree levels
PhD

PhD in Comparative Literature and Law

Offered at New York University, USA
DegreePhD
FieldPhD Comp Lit & Law
Duration5 years

Overview

Explore how legal ideas travel through texts, languages, and cultures in the PhD in Comparative Literature and Law. You’ll develop research skills at the intersection of literary studies and legal thought.

About this programme

Overview

The PhD in Comparative Literature and Law at New York University offers a unique opportunity to examine the interplay of legal concepts across various texts, languages, and cultural contexts. This interdisciplinary program equips students with essential research skills that bridge the fields of literary studies and legal thought, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how literature and law influence one another.

What you'll study

The program combines advanced seminars in comparative literature with a thorough exploration of legal interpretation. Students will engage in foundational coursework and progress to independent research, ultimately leading to a dissertation that embodies original scholarship in the intersection of these two fields.

Typical components

  • Comparative Literature coursework: Focuses on theory, methods, and research design across literary traditions.
  • Law and legal interpretation: Involves seminars that investigate the presence of legal ideas in texts and the impact of interpretation on meaning.
  • Research development: Includes proposal work, research workshops, and support for academic writing.
  • Dissertation: Requires an original research project that demonstrates advanced scholarship at the crossroads of comparative literature and law.

Research milestones

  • Development of a dissertation topic and formulation of research questions.
  • Completion of required coursework and any qualifying assessments.
  • Dissertation writing and final defense.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to possess a relevant master’s degree or equivalent graduate-level training in a related field, such as literature, humanities, law, or a closely aligned discipline. While specific GPA, GRE, or GMAT requirements are not detailed, a strong academic background is advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Comparative Literature and Law can pursue diverse career paths in academia, legal practice, cultural institutions, and policy analysis. This program prepares students to critically engage with complex legal and literary texts, making them valuable assets in various fields that require strong analytical and interpretive skills.

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Programme details are indicative and may change — always verify current information with the official university website before applying.