Emory University

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasises advanced theoretical training, methodological pluralism and sustained research. Typical elements include:

• Core seminars: Advanced seminars in critical theory, historiography, literary interpretation, and contemporary philosophical debates.
• Methodologies: Training in qualitative methods, archival research, digital humanities tools, and interdisciplinary research design.
• Regional and period studies: Opportunities to examine literature, art and intellectual history across a range of geographies and time periods.
• Language competence: Preparation in one or more research languages relevant to the student’s dissertation work.
• Professional development: Seminars and workshops on pedagogy, grant-writing, publishing, public humanities and digital scholarship.
• Research practicum and teaching: Early involvement in teaching undergraduate courses and participating in faculty-led research projects or collaborative Centres.

Progression normally involves an initial period of coursework, comprehensive or qualifying examinations, the preparation of a dissertation prospectus, and completion of an original doctoral dissertation under committee supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised master’s degree or equivalent preparation in a related discipline, together with a solid academic record and demonstrated research potential. A typical application package includes:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A curriculum vitae that summarises academic and professional experience.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests, proposed directions for doctoral work and reasons for pursuing the programme at Emory.
• A writing sample that shows the applicant’s ability to conduct sustained scholarly analysis.
• Two to three letters of recommendation from academic referees familiar with the applicant’s scholarly work.

Applicants may be invited to interview with faculty. Some applicants without a master’s may be considered if they can demonstrate equivalent preparation. Specific test requirements and residency expectations are provided in the Graduate Division admissions materials.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers in and beyond the academy. Common outcomes include tenure-track and adjunct teaching positions in universities and colleges, research roles in think-tanks and cultural institutions, curatorial and archival work in museums and libraries, positions in publishing and journalism, and leadership roles in public humanities, cultural policy and non-profit organisations. The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinary methods, pedagogy and public engagement also prepares graduates for roles that require advanced critical thinking and communication skills.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers a distinctive environment for humanities research: faculty members with strengths across literary studies, history, philosophy and the arts who encourage cross-department collaboration, extensive research resources including a major university library system and specialised archives, and centres that support digital scholarship and public-facing projects. Located in Atlanta, the university provides access to a rich constellation of cultural institutions, museums and community partners for research and outreach. Doctoral students benefit from mentorship, opportunities to teach and lead seminars, and a scholarly community committed to both rigorous research and broader societal engagement.