The United States lists 89 PhD programmes in Arts & Humanities across 37 universities, providing doctoral researchers with one of the world's most extensive graduate humanities ecosystems. Programmes are hosted at institutions including the University of Chicago, the University of California Los Angeles, Pennsylvania State University, Rutgers University–New Brunswick, the University of Texas at Austin, and Claremont School of Theology. Tuition ranges from roughly €13,000 to €71,000 per year, though funded PhD positions — where tuition is waived and a stipend provided — are common in US humanities doctoral programmes.
Most US Arts & Humanities PhD programmes expect applicants to hold a master's degree in the relevant discipline and submit a research proposal, writing samples, and academic references. Programmes typically take five to seven years to complete. Many include teaching assistantships, which both fund the student and provide professional development as an instructor. International students require an F-1 visa to study at US institutions.
The Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics at Penn State is designed to train scholars who will conduct systematic research into individual and societal multilingualism. This program aims to build and test theories regarding how linguistic systems develop, are acquired, used, and taught in a global context. You will engage with foundational theories and research in linguistics, applied linguistics, second language acquisition, psycholinguistics, and sociolinguistics. The curriculum encourages the use of diverse research methodologies, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches, such as sociocultural, historical, linguistic, stylistic, and discourse analysis. The ultimate goal of research within this program is to deeply understand the multifaceted nature of language as a tool for social existence, communication, and cognition. Graduates are prepared to contribute to scholarly understanding and practice in the field of applied linguistics.
This program focuses on the study of ancient Greek archaeology, particularly during the High Classical period, an era of significant artistic and political development in Athens. It delves into the life and works of Phidias, a prominent sculptor and supervisor of artistic projects under Perikles. The program examines the artistic style of this period, characterized by idealized human forms, and its representation of Athenian dominance. Students will explore Phidias' key contributions, including monumental chryselephantine statues like the Athena Parthenos and the statue of Zeus at Olympia, as well as his work on architectural elements such as pedimental marbles. The curriculum emphasizes understanding Phidias' style and its influence on the broader context of Greek art during the late fifth century BCE, highlighting his role in initiating and perfecting the High Classical Style. The program also touches upon the attribution of various works and copies, encouraging critical analysis of historical evidence.
The UCLA Department of Comparative Literature offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program designed for students seeking in-depth study and research in the field. The program focuses on developing a strong foundation in comparative literary analysis, with students defining their own major and minor fields of study. This allows for a personalized curriculum that can encompass various literary traditions, cultural contexts, and theoretical approaches, preparing students for advanced scholarly work and dissertation research.
The Claremont Mentoring D.Min. program is designed for individuals seeking guidance for their next steps in ministry, career transitions, or reimagining their pastoral work. This 28-credit program offers a structured path to explore your questions and challenges with the support of coursework, research training, and individualized mentorship. You will engage with required intensives and choose electives to tailor your study, focusing on areas such as spiritual care, psychotherapy, liturgical innovations, or leadership strategies. The program culminates in a major project or thesis, supported by academic partners who provide advice and education throughout your journey.
The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program at Claremont School of Theology is designed for experienced professionals seeking to deepen their understanding, gain fresh inspiration, and enhance their ministry practice. This program offers a revitalizing experience for those at a point in their careers where new ideas, external influences, and imaginative recharging are needed. It provides an environment to engage with mentors and academics, connect with a diverse cohort of thinkers, and test innovative ideas in a supportive setting, serving as a form of career therapy or professional development.
The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Innovation and Creativity in Ministry is designed for clergy and other spiritual leaders, including those in transition, to equip them with new models for ministry. It leverages theories and practices from innovation to foster new approaches in spiritual leadership. The program integrates online and in-person learning, with core courses held during multi-day intensives each fall. Up to half of the degree requirements can be completed online. The program is structured to be completed in a minimum of three years and must be finished within five years.
The Doctor of Ministry in Contemplative Leadership is a 30-credit doctoral program designed for professionals in ministry, community work, non-profit management, or corporate leadership. It aims to enhance the inspiration and resilience leaders bring to their organizations and communities by focusing on contemplative practice, engaged compassion, discernment-based leadership, and new approaches to conflict. The program provides practical skills and confidence for both personal and institutional guidance, fostering practical and transformative leadership.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program at the University of Washington's College of Education prepares students for careers in research, scholarly inquiry, and teaching at the college level. The program integrates continuous research, comprehensive coursework in education and related fields, and tailored teaching experiences. Students work closely with an advisor and a faculty Supervisory Committee to develop a strong academic foundation, advanced research skills, and a specialty in an area outside of education. The curriculum aims to provide deep scholarly knowledge, a broad understanding of research methodologies, competency in supportive cognate areas, and excellence in college teaching. Graduates pursue careers at national and regional research universities, community colleges, K-12 settings, foundations, agencies, and private businesses.
Cornell University's Ph.D. program in Sociology is designed for students seeking advanced research training and a career in academia or research. The program focuses on developing deep theoretical knowledge and rigorous methodological skills. Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly competitive and applications are not accepted every year. The program structure involves coursework, comprehensive examinations, and the completion of a dissertation. Key milestones include completing core coursework and proseminars, forming a special committee, passing the A Exam for admission to candidacy, defending a dissertation proposal, and finally, the B Exam, which is the dissertation defense. Students have the option to complete a Master's thesis as part of their Ph.D. program or as a terminal degree.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Soil Science at Penn State is designed to train students for careers in academic teaching and scholarly research. The program emphasizes original, valid, and significant research, requiring candidates to demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research. Successful completion of the Ph.D. involves meeting Graduate School residence requirements, completing approved coursework, conducting research, preparing a thesis, and passing all prescribed examinations.
The PhD in Economics program at Rice University is designed to provide students with advanced training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing them for careers in academia and research. The program emphasizes rigorous analytical skills and the ability to conduct original research. Students are expected to complete a substantial course of study and a dissertation. The program requires a minimum of two years of full-time study in residence at Rice. Over the course of the program, students will engage with faculty on research projects, develop their own dissertation topic, and present their findings. The curriculum is structured to build a strong foundation in economic principles and quantitative methods, with opportunities to specialize in various fields of economics and finance.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in History program at Washington State University is designed for students aiming to become professional historians. This program requires students to have already completed a Master's degree in History or a related field. The core of the doctoral program involves conducting independent research that culminates in a significant written dissertation. This research is focused on a specific historical field, framed within a broader geographical, chronological, and historiographical context, with the goal of making a substantial contribution to academic knowledge. The program concludes with a final oral examination.
The PhD in Management program at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management is designed to cultivate the next generation of leading researchers and academics. This program focuses on developing scholars capable of conducting cutting-edge research and pushing the boundaries of interdisciplinary scholarship within the field of management. Students will engage in rigorous training to prepare them for impactful careers in academia, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen specialization.
The PhD program in Operations Management at the University of Washington's Foster School of Business is designed for students aiming for academic and research careers. This area of study focuses on the functional aspects of organizations that produce goods and services. The curriculum delves into contemporary changes in supply chain management, influenced by advancements in information technology, global market expansion, and evolving consumer expectations regarding quality and sophistication.
The University of Washington offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Pharmaceutics. This research-based program focuses on advanced study and independent research at the intersection of biological sciences and pharmaceutical sciences. It prepares students for careers in academic research, industry, and government by providing a strong foundation in both theoretical principles and practical applications within the field.
This Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at Rice University offers a specialized concentration in Psychometrics and Quantitative Psychology within the broader field of Psychology. It is designed for students who wish to develop advanced research skills in the measurement and statistical analysis of psychological data. The program aims to equip graduates with the ability to critically evaluate existing scholarship, apply psychometric principles to their own research at a high level, and effectively communicate their findings through publications and presentations. Students in this program will undertake rigorous coursework in advanced statistics and research methods, alongside specialized psychometric topics. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on research experience through first and second-year projects, culminating in a doctoral dissertation that must be defended publicly. The program prepares students for careers in academia, research institutions, and industries where advanced quantitative skills in psychology are highly valued.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Psychology at Rice University offers a specialized major concentration in Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience. This program is designed to train students to become independent researchers capable of contributing to the scientific understanding of the brain and behavior. Students will develop critical skills in research design, data analysis, and scientific communication within the fields of cognitive and affective neuroscience. The curriculum emphasizes rigorous coursework, hands-on research experience, and the development of original scholarly work. The program structure includes core courses in psychological statistics, cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and affective science, alongside specialized electives. A significant component of the PhD is the completion of a first-year project, a second-year project, and ultimately, a doctoral thesis that must be defended publicly and be of a quality suitable for publication in a leading academic journal.
This PhD program focuses on Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine Research, equipping students with advanced skills to critically assess and conduct independent research in these fields. Graduates will be prepared to contribute original, publishable research and communicate their findings effectively. The program requires comprehensive coursework, research projects, and a defended thesis, with specific requirements determined by the chosen concentration.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Psychology at Rice University offers a specialized concentration in Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology. This program is designed to train students to become independent researchers capable of contributing original scholarship to the field. Students will develop critical assessment skills, learn to apply theoretical and methodological tools for research, and aim to produce work suitable for publication in top academic journals. The program emphasizes clear and effective communication of research findings in both written and oral forms. While students are not typically admitted directly to the MA program, it can be earned as part of the PhD progression. General university requirements for doctoral degrees apply, alongside specific departmental criteria.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology at UC San Diego is designed to train students for careers in research and academia. The program emphasizes critical engagement with sociological theory, research methods, and substantive areas of sociological inquiry. Students will develop advanced analytical skills and contribute to the field through original research. The department fosters a collaborative environment with faculty actively involved in diverse research projects.
This program focuses on the study of American culture, history, and society through an interdisciplinary lens. Students delve into the complexities of American identity, examining how various social, political, and cultural forces have shaped the nation. The curriculum encourages critical analysis of diverse historical periods and contemporary issues, with a particular emphasis on understanding the evolution of American thought and its global impact. Research in this field often explores themes such as democracy, mass communication, and the influence of public relations on societal norms and political discourse.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Communicative Sciences and Disorders at NYU Steinhardt is designed to train you as an independent researcher and scholar in the field. The program emphasizes rigorous research experience, intensive coursework, and close collaboration with faculty mentors. Graduates are prepared for careers as independent researchers and educators, addressing a documented shortage of faculty in this area. The curriculum focuses on cutting-edge research into speech, language, and swallowing in both typical and atypical populations, bridging basic and applied human sciences. Students will engage in scholarly, publishable research, often through lab rotations and teaching experiences, guided by a primary faculty advisor. The program welcomes applicants with degrees in communicative sciences and disorders, as well as related fields such as psychology, linguistics, and neuroscience, provided they demonstrate a strong interest in CSD-based research. Interdisciplinary experiences are encouraged to enhance research capabilities and career prospects.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Comparative and International Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, offers a rigorous academic program for students seeking to deeply understand and address global educational challenges. This program focuses on analyzing educational systems, policies, and practices across different countries and cultures. Students will engage with complex theories and research methodologies to contribute to the field of international and comparative education. The curriculum is designed to equip future scholars, researchers, and policymakers with the knowledge and skills needed to drive positive change in education worldwide.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics program at Texas A&M University is designed to equip students with strong analytical and quantitative skills, preparing them for influential careers in academia, business, or government. The curriculum provides a deep dive into contemporary policy issues, ensuring graduates are well-versed in the practical applications of economic theory. In the initial two semesters, students undergo rigorous training in the core areas of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Following this foundational training, students select three specialized fields for intensive study. The program culminates in a dissertation, which typically begins in the third year and continues through the fourth or fifth year of the program.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Information Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a research-focused degree program offered by the School of Information Sciences (iSchool). This program equips students with the advanced knowledge and skills to conduct independent, impactful research in various areas of information science. It emphasizes a deep understanding of complex global information systems, intellectual reasoning, creative inquiry, social and cultural awareness, and leadership in community engagement. The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 48 graduate hours of coursework and 32 graduate hours of thesis credit. Key components include foundational seminars, research methods, electives, a field exam, and dissertation research. Students are encouraged to develop expertise across subfields of information science and to engage in interdisciplinary research. The program aims to prepare graduates for academic careers, research positions, and leadership roles in diverse information-related fields.
This Ph.D. program focuses on Meteorology and Atmospheric Science, offering advanced research opportunities. The program delves into complex atmospheric phenomena, including electrical discharges, atmospheric chemistry, and their global significance. Students engage in cutting-edge research using specialized instruments to measure and analyze atmospheric processes. The research aims to improve understanding of the atmosphere's cleaning agents, hydroxyl (OH) and hydroperoxyl (HOx) radicals, which are driven by daytime atmospheric chemistry. The program investigates the prevalence and production of these radicals from electrical discharges, such as corona discharges and lightning. Students will gain experience in designing, calibrating, and deploying novel instruments for atmospheric measurements. The program also addresses the underrepresentation of lightning impacts in global models and the limitations of current satellite detection methods. Graduates will be equipped with advanced analytical and research skills to contribute to the field of atmospheric science and climate research.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Physics program at Penn State offers advanced research opportunities in various fields, including the study of dark matter. This program focuses on preparing students for careers in research and academia. The Ph.D. dissertation in Physics typically involves in-depth, original research contributing new knowledge to the field. Research areas often include experimental and theoretical physics, with a strong emphasis on areas like particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. Students engage with cutting-edge research facilities and collaborate with faculty on significant scientific projects. The program aims to provide students with the skills necessary to conduct independent research, analyze complex data, and communicate scientific findings effectively, preparing them for leadership roles in scientific endeavors.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Plant Breeding at Texas A&M University is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various sectors focused on plant breeding and improvement. This program equips graduates with advanced knowledge and skills to address global needs for food, feed, fiber, bioenergy, shelter, and aesthetic spaces. Graduates are well-prepared for positions in industry, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations involved in crop improvement or production, including private variety development companies, universities, and agricultural research entities. The program is available for both on-campus and asynchronous online study, offering flexibility for students.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Religion with a concentration in Contextual Theologies, often called the "Global PhD", is designed for individuals already involved in theological education, particularly in Asia. This program offers broad, interdisciplinary training enabling graduates to teach various courses and specialize in a chosen research area. It is a collaborative program with Chang Jung Christian University (CJCU) in Tainan, Taiwan, with all instruction conducted in English. The program combines intensive on-campus seminars in Taiwan with online coursework, making theological education accessible without requiring relocation.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in School Psychology at Texas A&M University is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge in their professional field, robust research methodologies, and essential competencies for practice as a health service professional. This program emphasizes not only the mastery of subject matter but also the ability to conduct independent research and communicate ideas effectively through both oral and written means. The degree ensures candidates are prepared for professional practice by meeting criteria for state and national credentials in schools, and for licensure as a psychologist in most states. It requires more than just coursework, residency, or technical requirements, focusing on a deep grasp of the field and practical skills.
Northwestern University's Department of Sociology offers a PhD program designed to foster scholarly rigor within a supportive and collegial environment. The program emphasizes individualized study and research, with a curriculum that balances theoretical and methodological training in the first year, progressing to seminars, workshops, and independent research in subsequent years. Students are guided to develop expertise in specific sociological subfields, culminating in a dissertation. The department has particular strengths in four key areas: Culture, focusing on systems of ideas, cultural products, and ethnographic analysis; Law, Economy, and Organizations, leveraging strong ties with the Kellogg School of Management and Northwestern Law School; Social Inequality, examining the origins, dimensions, and consequences of various forms of inequality; and Comparative-Historical Sociology, which analyzes social structures and events across different societies and historical periods. The program boasts an exceptional placement record, with graduates securing tenure-track faculty positions at leading universities and research roles at prominent institutions. This success underscores the quality of education and training provided, preparing students for impactful careers in academia and research.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Statistics at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a rigorous graduate program designed to equip students with advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in statistical methodology, data analysis, and research. The program aims to develop scholars who can contribute to the field through independent research, innovative applications, and effective teaching. Students will gain a solid foundation in statistical theory, develop a holistic understanding of data management and analysis, and acquire proficiency in statistical software and coding. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical depth and practical application, preparing graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and research institutions. The PhD program offers opportunities for specialization through optional concentrations in Computational Science & Engineering and Data Science & Engineering. Graduates are expected to be capable of conducting research independently, collaborating on complex data challenges, and potentially teaching statistical courses.
The Doctor of Spirituality (SpD) is a fully online professional doctorate program designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of compassion-based leadership. This 36-credit program emphasizes the spiritual dimensions of contemporary leadership and aims to equip students to become agents of transformation and healing in various settings, including communities, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and religious or spiritual groups. The SpD is particularly suited for early- and mid-career professionals such as healthcare providers, artists, civic leaders, educators, and social workers who are dedicated to integrating spiritual practices into their work. The program offers a rigorous academic experience that is also culturally informed and transformative. It is structured around themed cohorts, with initial cohorts focusing on spiritual direction. Future cohorts may explore areas like climate justice, arts-based activism, and community organizing. The SpD equips students with advanced skills in theory, practice, and resources for spiritually-based leadership and conflict resolution.
The Skaggs Graduate School of Chemical and Biological Sciences at Scripps Research offers a PhD program focused on high-impact discoveries at the intersection of chemistry and biology. With approximately 400 PhD students across campuses in La Jolla, California, and Jupiter, Florida, the program is consistently ranked among the top 10 in the nation. Students engage in intensive laboratory research from the beginning of their studies, guided by world-renowned faculty who serve as mentors and advisors. The curriculum is designed to be customizable, allowing students to tailor their coursework to their specific research interests while exploring multidisciplinary topics.
The East Asian Studies program at Princeton University offers an in-depth exploration of the rich cultures, histories, and languages of East Asia, with a focus on China, Japan, and Korea. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students seeking to develop a deep understanding of the region's past and present, covering a wide range of topics from ancient civilizations to contemporary society, art, literature, and media. Through rigorous academic study, you will gain critical perspectives on East Asian societies and their global connections. While the program page details undergraduate-level courses, the admission information provided is for a PhD program, specifically in Molecular Biology, but gives general application guidance for Princeton graduate admissions. Therefore, this overview assumes a strong academic foundation and a desire for advanced research in East Asian Studies, though the program's degree level is inferred to be PhD based on the application page. The curriculum is built around language acquisition and cultural studies, providing a comprehensive foundation in East Asian languages (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) and diverse disciplinary approaches including history, art, literature, and social sciences. Students are encouraged to develop a broad regional understanding while also specializing in particular areas of interest.
The part-time Educational Linguistics Ed.D. program is designed for experienced language educators in the early to mid-stages of their careers. It aims to equip them with advanced knowledge, research skills, and technical expertise to become leaders in language education. The program focuses on a research-based, practitioner-oriented approach, enabling students to address critical issues in curriculum development, instructional practice, program design, teacher development, and assessment. Graduates will be prepared to apply research findings to their professional practice, advance into leadership roles, and train future language instructors.
The graduate program in Linguistics at UC Davis focuses on providing students with a strong foundation in theoretical linguistics and research methodologies. This rigorous preparation is designed to form the basis of sound academic scholarship. The program emphasizes PhD studies, with MS degrees typically considered only under special circumstances, such as secure government fellowships, independent funding, or a faculty mentor's commitment of financial support. International applicants are strongly advised to secure fellowship support from their home countries, as only exceptional candidates without financial aid are generally considered. Admission requires an undergraduate degree in a biological science, with coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Upper-division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are also recommended. Applicants must demonstrate research aptitude through independent research projects or post-baccalaureate experience, in addition to meeting the University of California's minimum 3.0 GPA requirement. The Graduate Group in Microbiology strongly encourages applicants to contact potential faculty mentors to discuss research interests and lab availability.
The PhD program in History at the University of Texas at Austin offers advanced study and research opportunities within the field of history. The program is housed within the College of Liberal Arts and focuses on various specializations, including modern Mexico and Latin America, the history of Catholicism, agrarian and rural history, and taurine history. Students engage in rigorous coursework, original research, and dissertation writing under the guidance of experienced faculty. The department emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and provides resources for digital humanities projects.
The Indo-European Lexicon project aims to preserve and document ancient languages by studying Proto-Indo-European (PIE) etymons and their reflexes in various Indo-European languages. The project presents PIE etymons, their semantic fields, and derived words (reflexes) found across different language families. Each reflex is annotated with its part-of-speech, grammatical features, a brief gloss, and source citation. The lexicon is a continuously developing resource, with ongoing updates and additions of etymons and reflexes. Users can navigate through etymons alphabetically and explore connections via language and semantic indices.
The Indo-European Lexicon (IEL) project at the University of Texas at Austin's Linguistics Research Center (LRC) is an ongoing effort to document and preserve the etymology of Proto-Indo-European (PIE) words and their subsequent development into various daughter languages. This resource provides detailed information on PIE etymons, their semantic fields, and an extensive list of reflexes (derived words) found across a wide range of Indo-European languages, including Celtic, Germanic, Italic, Baltic, Hellenic, Anatolian, Armenian, Indic, and Tocharian. The project aims to present this information in a structured and accessible format, with each entry including the PIE root, its English gloss, assigned semantic fields, and detailed annotations for each reflex. These annotations cover part-of-speech, grammatical features, glosses, and source citations. While the project is under active construction, it serves as a valuable tool for researchers and students interested in historical linguistics and the comparative study of Indo-European languages.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics at Arizona State University offers an intensive exploration into the scientific study of language and its profound impact on human society. This program provides comprehensive training in both formal and applied linguistics, allowing students to specialize in areas that align with their research interests. The flexible curriculum covers core topics such as syntax, semantics, phonetics, phonology, pragmatics, discourse analysis, and sociolinguistics. Students can also delve into specialized fields including Indigenous American linguistics, language documentation, second language acquisition, TESOL, global Englishes, and computer-assisted language learning. The program's focus on both theory and practical application prepares graduates for influential careers in academia and various professional sectors.
The MA/PhD program in Asian Cultures and Languages (ACL) is designed for students aiming for an academic career focused on the literature and languages of China, Japan, Korea, or South Asia. The program does not offer a standalone Master of Arts (MA) degree; it is structured as a pathway to a doctoral degree. Students can enter the program with either a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree in a different field. The program requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, divided into two phases. The first phase, leading to the MA, involves 30 credit hours and culminates in a Master's Report. Students undergo a formal review to determine their progression to the PhD phase. The second phase, the PhD, requires an additional 18 credit hours of coursework beyond the MA, along with dissertation credits. Throughout the program, students must demonstrate competency in at least one modern foreign language relevant to their research.
The Ph.D. program in Linguistics at Stony Brook University is designed to prepare students for advanced research across all core areas of theoretical linguistics. This includes specializations in syntax, semantics, morphology, phonology, and phonetics, as well as in first and second language acquisition. The program also emphasizes experimental and computational approaches to these linguistic subfields. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with faculty and students in related departments such as Psychology, Music, Computer Science, Philosophy, and the Institute for Advanced Computational Science (IACS).
The Ph.D. program in Linguistics at UC Davis offers students the opportunity to specialize in various aspects of theoretical and applied linguistics. The program is supported by a diverse graduate faculty with expertise across multiple departments, encouraging an interdisciplinary approach to linguistic study. Students can focus on areas such as multilingualism and language development, or delve into language structure and theory, and language sciences.
The Department of Linguistics at the University of Washington offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program for students passionate about advancing knowledge in the field. Students can specialize in either General Linguistics or Computational Linguistics. The program is designed for those who wish to conduct advanced independent research, focusing on both the theoretical and applied aspects of language. The department's core faculty have extensive interests in areas such as syntax, phonology, morphology, semantics, phonetics, sociolinguistics, and computational linguistics. Please note that programs in language pedagogy or applied linguistics are not offered by this department.

The PhD in Asian Languages and Cultures is an interdisciplinary program allowing for specialization in areas such as Buddhist studies, Chinese studies, Japanese studies, Korean studies, South Asian studies, or Southeast Asian studies. The program typically requires three years of graduate coursework, with the overall degree completion taking an average of five to seven years, including dissertation research and writing. Students are expected to develop a high level of proficiency in an Asian language relevant to their research, potentially including both modern and pre-modern forms.
The PhD in Cinema Studies at NYU is an advanced research degree focused on intensive study in film theory, history, and research methods. The curriculum integrates concepts from various disciplines such as art history, cultural studies, American studies, psychoanalytic theory, and philosophy. This program aims to equip students with the skills to conduct independent research and demonstrate outstanding original scholarship, preparing them for academic leadership roles in the field.

The University of Michigan's Department of English offers doctoral programs for students seeking advanced study in English Language and Literature, English and Education, and English and Women's Studies. These programs are designed for individuals passionate about in-depth literary analysis, critical theory, and interdisciplinary approaches to English studies. The curriculum fosters rigorous research skills and prepares graduates for academic and research-oriented careers. Doctoral students benefit from comprehensive funding packages, which typically include tuition remission, health and dental benefits, and a stipend for living expenses. Additional support is often available for conference travel, research, and writing. The department is committed to supporting its students throughout their academic journey and beyond.
The PhD program in Linguistics at the University of Chicago is a comprehensive, research-focused program designed to be completed in approximately six years. Students engage in rigorous coursework, independent research, and teaching, preparing them for academic and professional careers. The program operates on a quarter system, with students typically taking three courses per quarter for three quarters annually. A significant portion of the program involves coursework, research paper development, language requirements, and ultimately, the completion and defense of a dissertation. During the first four years, students will complete eight foundational courses from a selection of fourteen, a methods course, and three additional graduate-level linguistics courses. Six of these foundational courses must be completed within the first year. Years two and three involve writing two qualifying papers under faculty guidance, fulfilling a non-Indo European language requirement, passing an additional language reading examination, and taking a Research Seminar course. By the end of the fourth year, students will have defended their dissertation proposal and, upon meeting all requirements, will be admitted to candidacy for the PhD. The program also emphasizes professional development through seminars on presenting research and preparing for the job market. Students are required to fulfill teaching requirements, including acting as a Teaching Assistant (CA) and potentially leading a standalone lecture course, typically during their third, fourth, and fifth years. Pedagogical training is also an integral part of the program. Joint PhD options are available with departments such as Anthropology, Comparative Human Development, Psychology, Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, Slavic Languages and Literatures, and Philosophy.
The PhD in Religion at Claremont School of Theology offers an advanced academic program for students seeking to engage deeply with religious traditions. This program encourages original research and critical interpretation, aiming to foster inspired leadership and teaching within theological and community contexts. It emphasizes personal growth alongside intellectual development, preparing students to contribute to the evolution of religious thought and practice. The curriculum is designed for disciplined, dedicated, and visionary individuals. Students will develop both knowledge and imagination as they formulate their unique interpretations of religious studies. The program facilitates a reciprocal learning environment where students learn from their studies, and their religion, in turn, learns from their insights and contributions.
Claremont School of Theology's PhD concentration in Philosophy of Religion and Theology (PRT) offers a religiously inclusive and critically informed approach to fundamental philosophical and theological questions. The program emphasizes a cross-cultural perspective, engaging in philosophical and theological examination of key themes within various religious traditions. This includes exploring topics such as religious epistemology, religious language, faith and reason, religion and science, metaphysics, concepts of truth, ethics, diversity, pluralism, social and political issues, and the very nature of religion. By approaching the philosophy of religion and theology in a comparative and cross-cultural manner, this concentration specifically engages with diverse traditions and minority voices. This unique positioning places the CST program at the forefront of religiously inclusive and critically informed scholarship in the field, aligning with the leading edge of academic inquiry.
The PhD program in Hebrew Bible and Jewish Studies at Claremont School of Theology offers advanced training for students aiming for careers in research and teaching. It focuses on the critical interpretation of the Hebrew Bible and the history of Judaism and Jewish Thought. The program requires a strong foundation in ancient biblical languages like Hebrew and Aramaic, as well as modern research languages such as German, French, and modern Hebrew. Students will engage in the critical study of the Hebrew Bible, rabbinic literature, medieval and modern Jewish thought, and Jewish history from antiquity to the present.
The PhD program in New Testament and Christian Origins at Claremont School of Theology offers advanced academic training focused on the critical interpretation of ancient Christian texts. This program prepares students for careers in research and teaching within higher education, as well as for roles in religious and community service, and other related fields. The curriculum emphasizes the study of New Testament and related literature within the broader contexts of post-biblical Judaism, classical Greek and Hellenistic literature, ancient philosophy and religion, and the cultures of the early Roman Empire.
There are 89 PhD programmes in Arts & Humanities across 37 US universities, covering disciplines such as literature, history, philosophy, linguistics, religious studies, and cultural studies.
Listed tuition ranges from roughly €13,000 to €71,000 per year; however, many funded PhD positions include tuition waivers and a living stipend, so students should investigate funding availability carefully.
Notable providers include the University of Chicago, UCLA, Pennsylvania State University, Rutgers University–New Brunswick, the University of Texas at Austin, and Claremont School of Theology, among 37 universities.
Yes. International students may apply and are eligible to hold teaching or research assistantships; an F-1 visa is required, and fully funded positions are particularly competitive.
Most programmes require a master's degree in a relevant discipline, a research proposal, writing samples, letters of recommendation, and English-language test scores for international applicants.