University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The PhD in American Studies is a supervised research programme focused on producing an original thesis that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge in the field. Projects may engage with a broad range of topics including American literature and visual culture, political and social history, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, migration and diaspora, media and film, transatlantic relations, and popular culture.

Students normally work closely with one or more supervisors to refine their research questions, methodology and archival strategy. Typical elements of the programme include:

• Independent research leading to a doctoral dissertation (usually examined by viva voce).
• Research training modules and workshops covering methods, theory, digital humanities, and publication skills delivered through the Graduate School and departmental training programmes.
• Opportunities to present work at internal seminars, departmental reading groups and external conferences.
• Access to primary and secondary sources via the University of Nottingham Libraries, Special Collections and electronic databases; where relevant, support for archival visits and fieldwork.

Students are encouraged to situate their work in interdisciplinary conversations and may draw on expertise across humanities and social sciences. Candidates typically submit a thesis of substantial length reflecting original research and critical analysis.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a relevant master’s degree (or equivalent) with a strong academic record in American Studies, literature, history, cultural studies, politics or another closely related discipline. A well-developed research proposal that demonstrates awareness of the field, a feasible research plan and appropriate methodology is required.

Applications must include academic transcripts, a research proposal, a CV, and at least two academic references. International applicants should meet the University’s English language requirements; evidence of prior research training or publications can strengthen an application. Admission decisions take into account the fit between the applicant’s project and available supervisory expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in American Studies follow diverse careers in academia, research and beyond. Common pathways include:

• Academic posts and postdoctoral research roles in universities and colleges.
• Work in cultural institutions such as museums, galleries, archives and libraries, including roles in curatorship, collections management and public programming.
• Publishing, journalism, and media roles that value advanced skills in research, critical analysis and communication.
• Policy, advocacy and research positions in think tanks, non-governmental organisations and public sector bodies, especially those focusing on transatlantic relations, migration and social policy.
• Consultancy, heritage work and education outreach, where expertise in American culture and history informs public engagement and interpretation.

The programme aims to develop transferable skills in project management, research design, critical thinking and public communication, which are valued across many sectors.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a supportive research environment with experienced supervisors working across a wide range of American Studies topics and related disciplines. Doctoral researchers benefit from structured researcher development provision, regular research seminars and an active postgraduate community that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration.

Students have access to the University’s library collections and Special Collections, which include significant holdings, electronic databases and archival resources useful for Americanist research, and the institution supports archival visits and fieldwork where needed. The university’s international links and networks help facilitate conference participation and collaborative research opportunities.

Situated in a city with a lively cultural scene, students can engage with local museums, galleries and cultural organisations while drawing on the global research profile of the university for wider academic and professional opportunities.