WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS · UNITED STATES
PhD in Chinese Language and Literature
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 72Graduate Units Required
- 48Units in Chinese Literature
- 9Units in Literary Theory and Critical Methodology
- 6Units in Second East Asian Literature
- 6Units in China-related Studies
- 5Years of Study
The PhD in Chinese Language and Literature program at Washington University offers a comprehensive study of all periods and forms of Chinese literature, combined with a focused research concentration. It integrates China-related courses from various departments such as Anthropology, Art History, Film and Media Studies, History, Religious Studies, and Law. The program balances the study of Chinese literature and culture with literary theory and critical methodology, providing numerous opportunities for interdisciplinary research. Students are encouraged to concentrate on the literature and culture of the late imperial period through the early 21st century.
Curriculum
The PhD program requires a total of 72 graduate units, which can include up to 12 units of dissertation research credit. Students entering with an MA from Washington University may transfer up to 30 units, while those with an MA from another American university may transfer up to 24 units. Transfer credits for students from non-American universities are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. All students receive teaching experience and pedagogical training. Some may have opportunities to teach in related programs outside the department.
- Year 1
- Introduction to Comparative Literature: Theory and MethodsCompLitTht 5200 (CompLit 502)
- Years 1-3
- Seminars, advanced courses, and reading seminars in Chinese literature
- China-related courses
- Courses in the literary and cultural traditions of a second East Asia region
- Literary and cultural theory and critical methodology courses
- Years 4-5
- Dissertation research
Careers
The PhD program prepares students for academic and research careers. Students gain teaching experience and develop advanced research skills, equipping them for roles in academia and potentially in fields requiring deep cultural and linguistic expertise.
- Professor of Chinese Language and Literature
- Researcher
- Cultural Specialist
- Academic positions in related fields
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Chinese Language and Literature program?
- Applicants must demonstrate native or near-native competence in both Chinese and English. A Bachelor's Degree is required, and previous coursework will be assessed. Proficiency in an additional language may be necessary for specific research specializations.
- How many units are required for the PhD, and what is the typical duration of the program?
- The program requires a total of 72 graduate units, including up to 12 units for dissertation research. The typical duration of study is 5 years.
- What is the language of instruction for this program?
- While the program focuses on Chinese Language and Literature, English is the primary language of instruction for coursework and academic discourse at Washington University in St. Louis.
- How do I apply for the PhD program, and when is the deadline?
- Applications are submitted through the Arts & Sciences Graduate Admissions portal. Inquiries should be directed to the East Asian Languages and Cultures department. The application period typically opens in the fall, with deadlines usually in early January.
- What are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
- Tuition and living costs are not specified on the provided pages. Prospective students should contact the department directly for the most up-to-date financial information.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this PhD program?
- The program prepares students for academic and research careers, such as a Professor of Chinese Language and Literature or a Researcher. It also equips them for roles as Cultural Specialists or in academic positions in related fields.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeDemonstrated by previous coursework and MA transferability assessment.
ChineseNative or near-native competence required.
EnglishNative or near-native competence required.
Students may be required to demonstrate proficiency in an additional language (e.g., French, German, Japanese, Korean) if necessary for their research specialization. Language proficiency exams may be required before comprehensive examinations unless prior relevant graduate-level coursework has been completed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Contact department for current tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Contact department for current tuition rates.
LivingContact department for estimated living costs.
Tuition and living costs are not specified on the provided pages. Prospective students should contact the department directly for the most up-to-date financial information.
How to apply
1. Inquire with the DepartmentDirect questions about the PhD in Chinese Language and Literature program to the East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC) department or the relevant graduate admissions office.
2. Check Application RequirementsReview the specific admission requirements, including academic prerequisites and any standardized tests or language proficiency demonstrations needed, as outlined by the Arts & Sciences Graduate Admissions.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form by the specified deadline. Ensure all required documents are included.
4. Provide Transcripts and Supporting DocumentsSubmit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any other required materials as per the application instructions.
5. Demonstrate Language ProficiencyProvide evidence of native or near-native competence in Chinese and English. Additional language proficiency may be required for specific research areas.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the PhD in Chinese Language and Literature program?
+
Applicants must demonstrate native or near-native competence in both Chinese and English. A Bachelor's Degree is required, and previous coursework will be assessed. Proficiency in an additional language may be necessary for specific research specializations.
How many units are required for the PhD, and what is the typical duration of the program?
+
The program requires a total of 72 graduate units, including up to 12 units for dissertation research. The typical duration of study is 5 years.
What is the language of instruction for this program?
+
While the program focuses on Chinese Language and Literature, English is the primary language of instruction for coursework and academic discourse at Washington University in St. Louis.
How do I apply for the PhD program, and when is the deadline?
+
Applications are submitted through the Arts & Sciences Graduate Admissions portal. Inquiries should be directed to the East Asian Languages and Cultures department. The application period typically opens in the fall, with deadlines usually in early January.
What are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
+
Tuition and living costs are not specified on the provided pages. Prospective students should contact the department directly for the most up-to-date financial information.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this PhD program?
+
The program prepares students for academic and research careers, such as a Professor of Chinese Language and Literature or a Researcher. It also equips them for roles as Cultural Specialists or in academic positions in related fields.