Georgetown University

What you'll study

This PhD emphasises sustained, original research in the humanities within an interdisciplinary framework. Students typically take core seminars in research methods and theory alongside advanced seminars in relevant disciplines such as history, philosophy, literature, cultural studies, religion, languages, art history, and critical theory. Programme components usually include coursework to develop methodological and theoretical foundations, language training where relevant, a comprehensive or qualifying examination, and the writing of an original doctoral dissertation under faculty supervision.

Typical modules and activities you can expect include:

• Interdisciplinary seminars on contemporary and historical topics in the humanities
• Research methods and theory courses (qualitative methods, historiography, textual analysis, critical theory)
• Advanced reading and specialised topic seminars tied to faculty expertise
• Language preparation or advanced competency in a research language where necessary
• Preparation for and completion of comprehensive/qualifying exams
• Development and defence of a dissertation prospectus followed by dissertation research and writing
• Teaching practicum or assistantship experience, including opportunities to lead seminars and tutorials

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master’s degree or equivalent in a humanities or related discipline and to demonstrate strong academic achievement. A competitive application typically includes an academic CV, official transcripts, a substantive writing sample that demonstrates ability to conduct postgraduate research, a research proposal or statement of research interests, and several academic references from scholars familiar with the applicant’s work.

Additional expectations may include language proficiency for research languages, evidence of preparation for interdisciplinary work, and a record of relevant research or teaching experience. Standardised test requirements vary; applicants should consult the department for current policy on tests such as the GRE. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD pursue a variety of careers that draw on advanced research, critical thinking, and teaching skills. Common destinations include:

• Academic careers: tenure-track and non-tenure-track teaching and research positions in departments across the humanities and liberal arts
• Higher education roles: research centres, programme administration, curricular development, and academic advising
• Public humanities and cultural institutions: museums, archives, libraries, and cultural policy organisations
• Research and policy organisations: think tanks, NGOs, and government research bodies where humanities expertise informs public discourse
• Publishing, editing, and communications roles that require strong analytical and writing skills

The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinarity and teaching experience also prepares graduates for leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration in non-academic settings.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown’s location in Washington, DC provides exceptional access to national libraries, archives, cultural institutions, and policy organisations, offering rich resources for humanities research. The university’s strengths in interdisciplinary scholarship are supported by centres and institutes that foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, enabling doctoral students to work alongside scholars from related fields.

Doctoral students benefit from small seminar settings, close faculty mentorship, and opportunities for teaching and professional development. Georgetown’s network in the capital enhances prospects for research partnerships, public humanities engagement, and career networking beyond the academy.