Academics / English Graduate Programs / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in English Literature & Film

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in English Literature & Film

The doctoral program at the University of Kentucky Department of English is designed to be completed in five years of fully funded study beyond the MA degree. Doctoral candidates typically spend: 

  • Two years (four semesters) in coursework 
  • One year preparing for and completing the Qualifying Examination and Dissertation Prospectus 
  • Two years conducting research and writing the dissertation 

Throughout these five years, doctoral candidates gain substantial teaching experience and benefit from additional opportunities for support through competitive scholarships, research and travel grants, and funded summer study. 

With an active research faculty offering a diverse range of graduate seminars, the program prepares students for successful careers both inside and outside academia. Students specialize in British, American, or Global Anglophone literatures and film, while developing broad expertise that supports teaching, original research, and contributions to scholarly knowledge. The program is equally committed to professional development, and our graduates have achieved notable success in academic employment. 

 

PhD Admissions 

Minimum requirements for admission: 

  • An MA in English Literature, Film, or a closely related field. (Applicants with degrees in adjacent disciplines should contact the Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Matthew Giancarlo, to confirm eligibility.) 
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25 (on a 4.0 scale) and graduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), or equivalent. 
  • Evidence of strong academic preparation in English Literature or Film at the BA and/or MA level. 
  • For non-native English speakers or applicants from non-English–degree–granting institutions: IELTS 8–9 or TOEFL iBT 25–30. International applicants awarded teaching assistantships must also meet the UK Graduate School’s ITA Language Screening requirements. 
  • GRE scores (general or subject) are not required. 

The application deadline is January 15, 2026 for admission to the Fall 2026 cohort. All materials must be submitted via the University of Kentucky Graduate School online application system. 

 

Application Materials 

Applicants must submit the following: 

  • Statement of Purpose (1–2 pages / 300–1000 words): please explain your academic background, research interests, and how your goals align with the UK English Department. PhD applicants are strongly encouraged to identify faculty whose work aligns with their interests and research. 
  • Writing Sample (15–20 pages): A single piece of analytic prose demonstrating research and writing ability. This may be a seminar paper, thesis chapter, or other substantial academic essay. Creative writing is not accepted. 
  • Unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions (official transcripts required upon admission). 
  • Three letters of recommendation from faculty or others who can speak to the applicant’s academic, research, writing, and teaching qualifications. 
  • Current CV or résumé. 

 

Contact 

For questions about the doctoral program in English, please contact: 

 

Graduate Student Handbook