PhD in Rhetoric and Scientific & Technical Communication

See our current Graduate Handbook. (opens Google document)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research degree that prepares students for faculty positions in our core areas of rhetoric, writing studies and pedagogies, and technical communication and for other professional positions that require expertise in writing, rhetoric, and technology. 

The PhD curriculum is structured to ensure all students have broad foundational knowledge while offering the flexibility to build specialized expertise. Students pursue courses in methods and writing pedagogies and take seminars across our three core areas of rhetoric, writing studies, and technical communication. Students also identify a specialty area and pursue a supporting program of courses offered by other departments at the University of Minnesota related to the specialty area. The PhD is a full-time, residential five-year program. If you are considering applying for the PhD program, review our application requirements.

Bright pink tree blossoms in front of Johnston Hall

College Resources for Graduate Students

Visit CLA’s website for graduate students to learn about collegiate funding opportunities, student support, career services, and more.

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