Doctor of Philosophy in English

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in English prepares students to be advanced scholars and educators in the fields of literature and language. Our program asks you to know, write, and think about a given topic independently. For that reason, it asks you to focus intensively on a single research project for a sustained period of time.

Program Details

Our PhD program is designed as a five-year program for full-time students. It does not prescribe a set list of courses or distribution requirements. Instead, you will develop a program of study in close consultation with a faculty advisor. The program's structure allows for maximum flexibility in your coursework and the development of areas of research focus outside of traditional periodization.

Qualifying Examinations

Qualifying examinations cover one major and two minor areas as chosen in the consultation with your committee. Upon successful completion of the examinations, you are advanced to candidacy, and proceed directly to the dissertation prospectus and the dissertation. Once the dissertation is completed, you will present an oral defense of the dissertation before a committee, including any designated outside readers.

Application Procedures

The application deadline is January 1 for prospective PhD students in literature and rhetoric and composition.

Application Requirements

• A CV
• A statement of purpose
• A writing sample
• Three letters of recommendation
• Transcripts and other basic academic information

Writing Sample Guidelines

Please submit at least one sample of academic writing that forecasts your capacity to complete the written work typically assigned in graduate seminars. The ideal writing sample will be at least eight pages of your writing that demonstrates your ability with as many of the following as possible:

• Clearly articulated and appropriately focused thesis
• Coherently developed argument
• Sufficiently researched analysis (and/or theoretically informed argument)
• Logically derived conclusion(s)
• Correctly documented source material

Statement of Purpose Guidelines

All applicants must submit a detailed Statement of Purpose for admission to our programs. The statement consists of two or more double-spaced, typed pages (500-750 words) that address the questions below. These questions do not have to be answered in order or in equal detail.

• In what aspect of literary or rhetorical studies are you interested? Do you have an interest in any specific literary period, critical or theoretical approach, or research topic? Do you have a research or creative project in mind?
• Why have you selected the English program at SIU? Do you, for instance, want to work with specific faculty? Are you attracted to specific programs or course offerings?
• Please discuss any connections between your scholarly interests and teaching and/or any special interest in teaching that you might have. Do you have any experience or training in teaching? Do you envision a career in teaching, if so, at what level? How do you see your scholarly interests translating into a pedagogical setting?

Admission Criteria

The minimum GPA for admission to SIUC's Graduate School is 2.7 (of 4.0). International applicants should review the Graduate School's requirements for international admissions. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (general or subject tests) are not required for admission to the PhD program.

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.