Clark University

What you'll study

This programme is structured to support sustained, original research in the humanities while allowing students to draw on methods and theories from across the liberal arts and sciences. Early coursework typically includes advanced seminars in your primary field of interest, interdisciplinary theory, research methodologies, and professionalisation modules such as pedagogy and grant-writing. Students usually complete language or area studies requirements where relevant to their dissertation, participate in colloquia, and take workshops in archival practice, digital humanities tools, or qualitative and quantitative methods depending on project needs.

The core of the degree is an extended dissertation that makes a significant contribution to scholarship in the humanities. Between coursework and candidacy, students prepare a qualifying portfolio or examination to demonstrate readiness for independent research. Many students augment their research through internships, museum or archive placements, and collaborations with faculty across departments.

Entry requirements

• A completed master’s degree in a relevant field is normally expected; exceptional candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may also be considered.
• A research statement outlining proposed doctoral work, showing a clear scholarly question and methodological approach.
• A writing sample of substantial academic work, such as a chapter, long seminar paper or published article.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong preparation in humanities and supporting disciplines.
• Letters of recommendation from academic referees who can speak to your research potential and readiness for doctoral study.
• Proof of language competency where required by your research; additional testing or certifications may be requested for international applicants. Standardised tests (such as the GRE) may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis—check the programme’s admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to a range of careers in and beyond the academy. Typical paths include tenure-track and adjunct teaching positions in higher education, postdoctoral research fellowships, and roles in academic administration. Because of the programme’s interdisciplinary emphasis and training in research methods, graduates are also well placed for careers in cultural institutions such as museums and archives, public humanities initiatives, publishing and editing, policy research, and education non-profits. The programme’s focus on communication, project management and digital methods also prepares graduates for roles in research consultancy and knowledge exchange.

Why study at Clark University

Clark offers a supportive, research-intensive environment with strong mentoring from faculty active in a wide range of humanities fields. The university encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and centres, enabling students to shape individualised programmes of study that cross traditional boundaries. Clark’s location in Worcester provides access to regional archives, cultural organisations and partnerships with nearby research institutes and museums, enriching dissertation research and professional development opportunities.

Doctoral students typically benefit from small cohort sizes, close faculty supervision, and opportunities for teaching and funded research assistantships. The university’s library collections, specialised research centres and regular graduate colloquia help foster a vibrant intellectual community for doctoral work in the liberal arts and humanities.