Doctoral Degree in English
Who is this program for?
The PhD program in English Literature & Film is ideal for students who are passionate about literature, film studies, language, and research, and who wish to deepen their expertise in literary & film analysis, critical writing, and theory. This program prepares graduates for careers as university professors, educational professionals, literary critics, editors, or writers. The program provides candidates with advanced expertise in teaching, research, and academic publishing. Doctoral graduates contribute substantially to the academic and cultural understanding of literature, language, and film.
Program Overview
The doctoral program in English Literature & Film at the University of Kentucky is a selective and rigorous program offering advanced students the opportunity to engage deeply with literature, film & media, and critical theory. Guided by distinguished faculty, students master the advanced content of their fields, and they develop original research in a broad range of literary periods, genres, media, modalities, and interdisciplinary approaches. Our program emphasizes rigorous scholarship, original research, teaching excellence, and professional development. It provides graduates with the skills and experience needed to become leaders in their disciplines. Doctoral study prepares students for careers in academia, publishing, writing, consulting, and other professional fields. If you are passionate about the power of literature, film, media, and analysis, the Doctorate in English at UK offers a dynamic and supportive environment to pursue your goals.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.

Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!

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