PhD in American Studies
Coursework
PhD coursework should be interdisciplinary and students must complete the following:
- Four core courses: (AMST 8201, 8202, 8401, 8801)
- Three one-semester graduate seminars (in consultation with your advisor)
- One comparative culture course covering international or non-US subjects
- Field of concentration, which consists of seven advisor-approved courses, one of which must be a cultural pluralism course
- 24 thesis credits
Language Requirement
- Reading knowledge of one foreign language
Preliminary Exams: Written & Oral
The American studies preliminary examination portfolio consists of three written components:
- Subfield paper #1, a broad-based definition and explanation of a first subfield
- Subfield paper #2, an annotated syllabus for an undergraduate introductory course in a second subfield
- Dissertation project statement (together these compose the preliminary written examination), and an oral review (preliminary oral examination). Portfolios are individually tailored to each student's program.
Dissertation
Students carrying a full-time load generally take three years to complete course work, and two years to complete the dissertation. It is possible—but difficult—to complete this degree in a total of four years. Students are expected to complete the writing and defense of the dissertation by the end of their seventh year in the program.
College Resources for Graduate Students
Visit CLA’s website for graduate students to learn about collegiate funding opportunities, student support, career services, and more.