University of Zurich

Overview

The English and American Literature (Individual Doctorate) program at the University of Zurich is tailored for doctoral candidates aiming to engage in independent, research-oriented work within literary studies. This program equips students with advanced knowledge in their chosen area while enhancing their research methodologies, academic writing skills, and scholarly communication abilities.

What you'll study

The Individual Doctorate integrates structured doctoral training with independent research, leading to the completion of a PhD thesis. Candidates collaborate with a supervision committee to outline a personalized coursework plan that aligns with their research interests.

• Research training modules may include:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Tools for Humanities Research – Workshop
  • Theory Day
• Independent research: Involves developing a research proposal, conducting a literature review, refining methodologies, and executing the study.
• PhD thesis: A comprehensive written thesis that presents original research findings.
• Academic communication: Opportunities to showcase research results and engage in discussions within academic environments.

Entry requirements

Admission to the program hinges on your academic qualifications and the relevance of your proposed doctoral research. While the program does not mandate GRE or GMAT scores, candidates are evaluated based on their overall academic profile and submitted documentation.

While there are no explicit GPA or grade threshold requirements, final admission decisions are made by the faculty based on a holistic review of applications.

English proficiency: Candidates must provide proof of English language skills, typically through standardized tests.

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100 (or equivalent)
• IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0 (or equivalent)

• Master’s degree: A diploma from a state-accredited university is required.
• Transferred credits: Coursework must also be from a state-accredited institution.
• Doctoral eligibility: Your degree should qualify you for doctoral studies at a state-accredited university in your country.

Note: You may need to submit a research proposal and additional documents as specified by the department. It is advisable to check the University of Zurich's doctoral application pages for the latest requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the English and American Literature Individual Doctorate program develop a diverse set of transferable skills that prepare them for various career paths. Many pursue careers in academia, research, and teaching, while others find opportunities in knowledge-intensive sectors such as publishing, cultural institutions, and media.