Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines sustained original research with advanced coursework and teaching experience. Students typically undertake seminars in literary periods and theoretical approaches, structured research methods training, and electives that allow interdisciplinary work across fields such as history, philosophy, digital humanities, gender and sexuality studies, and cultural studies.

• Core seminars: advanced study in major literary periods (medieval, early modern, nineteenth century, twentieth and twenty-first century) and approaches to language and literature.
• Theory and methods: coursework in literary theory, critical methodologies, archival research, and digital-textual methods.
• Electives and specialisations: opportunities to pursue concentrations such as American literature, British literature, transatlantic studies, postcolonial and global literatures, rhetoric and composition, and contemporary critical theory.
• Comprehensive examinations: students prepare for and pass qualifying exams that demonstrate broad and specialised knowledge in chosen fields.
• Dissertation: candidates develop and defend an original dissertation that contributes to scholarship in their area of expertise; dissertation work is supported by regular advising and faculty consultation.
• Teaching practicum: graduate teaching assistantships provide supervised experience in undergraduate instruction, composition pedagogy, and curriculum design.

Programme structure

The programme typically includes two to three years of coursework and examinations followed by focused dissertation research. Students are expected to participate in departmental seminars, present at conferences, and engage with the university’s research centres and reading groups.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a strong undergraduate degree in English or a closely related field; a relevant master’s degree is often expected or recommended. Successful candidates normally demonstrate evidence of academic excellence, preparation for advanced research, and clear scholarly interests.

• Academic transcripts: a first degree (BA/BS) and, where applicable, a master’s degree (MA) in English or a related discipline.
• Writing sample: a substantial sample of scholarly writing (such as an MA thesis chapter or a long seminar paper) that showcases critical and research skills.
• Statement of purpose: a clear statement outlining research interests, proposed areas of study, and reasons for pursuing doctoral work at Loyola.
• Letters of recommendation: typically two to three academic references addressing the applicant’s research potential and preparation for doctoral study.
• CV/resume: detailing academic background, publications, conference presentations, teaching experience, and relevant professional activities.
• Other materials: some applicants may be asked to submit a sample syllabus or teaching statement; GRE scores may be optional or submitted at the applicant’s discretion depending on department policy.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in English Language and Literature pursue a range of careers that build on advanced research, critical thinking, and communication skills. Common career paths include:

• Academic positions in higher education — tenure-track and non-tenure-track roles teaching literature, composition, and interdisciplinary courses.
• Research and postdoctoral fellowships in literary studies and related fields.
• Publishing, editing, and literary criticism roles in trade and academic publishing.
• Work in cultural institutions, libraries, archives, and museums, including curatorial and public programming positions.
• Careers in communications, nonprofit leadership, policy, and public humanities where scholarly expertise and public engagement are valued.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola’s PhD in English Language and Literature benefits from the university’s Jesuit commitment to intellectual rigor, ethical inquiry, and social engagement. The department emphasises mentorship, small seminar cohorts, and close faculty-student collaboration in research and teaching.

• Interdisciplinary opportunities: students can draw on resources across the College of Arts and Sciences and affiliated research centres to pursue cross-disciplinary projects.
• Chicago advantage: proximity to a rich network of libraries, archives, cultural institutions and publishing houses in Chicago enhances primary-source research and professional networking.
• Teaching and funding: the department offers teaching assistantships and opportunities for pedagogical training, providing practical experience for academic careers.
• Active scholarly community: regular colloquia, visiting speakers, and student forums support professional development and conference preparation.

Prospective students interested in applying are encouraged to consult the department’s website for full application instructions and to contact potential faculty mentors whose research aligns with their interests.