University of Tulsa

What you'll study

The PhD programme centres on advanced coursework, comprehensive examinations, pedagogical training and an original dissertation. Early study typically includes graduate seminars in literary history and theory, methods of literary research, and specialist courses aligned with the student’s chosen field of concentration. Common areas of study include British literature, American literature, modern and contemporary literature, literary theory and criticism, cultural studies, and interdisciplinary work that intersects with gender studies, postcolonial studies, digital humanities and rhetoric.

• Core seminars in critical theory and research methods
• Advanced electives focused on period, genre, or thematic specialisms (for example, Victorian studies, modernism, African American literature, or ecocriticism)
• Proseminars on scholarly publication, professionalisation and grant writing
• Teaching practicum and opportunities to gain classroom experience as a graduate instructor or teaching assistant
• Dissertation proposal development, research, writing and oral defence

Students are expected to produce a substantial piece of original scholarship in the form of a doctoral dissertation, under the guidance of a supervisory committee. Opportunities often exist to engage in collaborative projects, conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals. The department also supports work in digital humanities, archival research, and public-facing scholarship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (MA in English or equivalent) or demonstrate equivalent graduate-level preparation in literature. Typical application components include:

• A strong academic transcript showing preparation in English literature and related fields
• A detailed curriculum vitae
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and proposed area of doctoral study
• A substantial writing sample (such as a seminar paper or MA thesis chapter) that demonstrates analytical and research ability
• Academic references, usually two or three letters from faculty who can assess the applicant’s research potential
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests include recognised exams)

Some applicants may also be asked to participate in an interview with potential supervisors. The department reviews fit between applicants’ research interests and faculty expertise when making offers. Prospective students should consult the department for any additional requirements or guidance about preparing a competitive application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in English pursue a range of careers. Many go on to academic positions at universities and colleges, combining teaching with continued research and publication. Others move into careers that value advanced writing, analytical and research skills, such as publishing, editing, higher-education administration, cultural institutions, museum and archival work, public humanities, journalism, and writing for NGOs or policy organisations.

Doctoral training also prepares students for roles in digital scholarship, content strategy, and communications, where expertise in textual analysis, rhetoric and critical thinking is prized. The programme’s emphasis on teaching experience and professionalisation helps graduates present competitive applications for tenure-track posts, postdoctoral fellowships and other research-oriented positions.

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a small, research-intensive environment in which doctoral students receive close mentorship from faculty and meaningful opportunities to teach and publish. The English department’s size facilitates regular contact with supervisors and cross-disciplinary collaboration within the humanities. Graduate students benefit from access to the university’s library collections and research support, as well as institutional resources for conference travel and scholarly development.

Located in a city with an active cultural life, students can engage with literary events, archives and local arts organisations for internships and public scholarship. The department emphasises professional preparation—teaching experience, conference presentation and publication—while supporting diverse research agendas, including traditional literary study and emerging interdisciplinary approaches.

Prospective students should contact the department to discuss fit with faculty research interests and to learn about current funding and teaching-assistantship opportunities that support doctoral study.