best phd colleges in usa

2024 Best Grad Schools in the United States for Doctorate Degrees

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4 best US unis to study PhD for international students

Getting a PhD is a long journey with many challenges, even dropping out — but getting one from one of the best US universities for PhD programmes can change your life.

Although the country is home to thousands of universities, not all award doctoral degrees. Only around 1,500 universities — out of 4,000 — offer PhD programmes.

In the US, the total length of a full-time PhD is usually four to six years. Students will spend one to four years on coursework and two to four years working on their dissertations.

This is not necessarily a bad thing — you will have more time to adjust and settle in, both of which are important before you embark on a tough and sometimes painful journey.

It’s a period of intense study where you’re also a researcher, responsible for forming your own hypotheses and theories that could be torn down by your supervisor and peers.

Leisure time will be scarce. Instead of hours with family and friends, you’ll be studying and working with books, meeting with supervisors and interviewing people.

But what will be in abundance is writing — and the deadlines that come with it.

The pay is not that great, either. PhD students in the biological sciences reportedly earn well below the basic cost of living at almost every institution and department in the US.

With these challenges in store, it’s important that you choose the best US universities for PhD programmes.

Getting the most advanced degree is good, but it’s just as important to take care of yourself during this grand journey.

Read on to learn more about the four best US universities for PhD programmes and why you should choose them:

With the many challenges in store when getting a PhD, it’s important that you choose the best US universities for PhD programmes. Source: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images North America/Getty Images via AFP

MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) 

The first on the list and among the best US universities for PhD studies is MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) .  

It’s well-known for focusing on on scientific and technological research that works towards creating a better future for humanity. 

The institute is home to highly ranked graduate schools including the School of Engineering and Sloan School of Management.

It also offers an extensive range of doctoral degrees from Aeronautics and Astronautics to Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences , and Nuclear Science and Engineering . 

The university research expenditures have exceeded US$700 million a year, meaning you’re less likely to run into funding issues here.

MIT has received funding from government agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense. 

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

California Institute of Technology , or Caltech, is a private university ranked #9 for Best National University Rankings 2022-2023 under US News and World Report.

Caltech offers top graduate programmes in engineering and areas of science including biology, chemistry, computer science, earth sciences, mathematics and physics .

Its commitment to producing high-impact research has led to grants from institutions such as NASA, the National Science Foundation and the Department of Health and Human Services, among others. 

If you’re looking for financial aid , Caltech is one university that’s generous with its funding.

On average, more than 98% of graduate students offered admission at Caltech are offered a package of merit-based financial support that pays all tuition charges and provides them with a stipend.

What’s more, all doctoral students will also receive full financial support in the form of internal or external fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or a combination of these.

A separate application for requesting financial aid is not required.

Johns Hopkins University

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Johns Hopkins University (@johnshopkinsu)

When searching for the best US universities for PhD studies here or elsewhere, you’ll likely see John Hopkins University ranked high on the list.

Established as the first research university in the US, the university continues to place research at the heart of all its programmes and is still striving for research excellence since its inception in 1876.

To give you a better idea, there are a total of 29 Nobel Prize winners associated with the university.

Their discoveries include developing a blood test for cancer , landing the first spacecraft on an asteroid and developing the first effective treatment for sickle cell anaemia.

It’s a level of prestige hard to find elsewhere — adding to the ROI of your PhD degree.

University of California, Berkeley

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by UC Berkeley (@ucberkeleyofficial)

UC Berkeley is another one of the best US universities for PhD candidates.

At this top-ranked university, and with PhD studies rankings do matter , there are 14 schools and colleges, such as the School of Optometry and the Graduate School of Journalism.

Graduate programmes are also offered at the  Haas School of Business ,  Graduate School of Education ,  College of Engineering  and  School of Law .

Similar to CalTech, the Graduate Division at UC Berkeley provides funding to its graduate students through fellowships and travel grants.  2023-2024 admissions are open — apply online today .

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PhD Program Rankings (Adapted from US News and World Report)

Below are reputation scores and ranks of the top 27 PhD programs in Psychology, including top-ranked schools in each of six subspecialties. From US News and World Report, “America’s Best Graduate Schools” rank/school average reputation score.

Rank                                      School Average reputation score

1                                 Stanford Univ.                                                         4.8

2                                 Univ. of California-Berkeley                                       4.6

2                                 Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor                                     4.6

4                                 Univ. of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign                         4.5

4                                 Yale Univ.                                                                 4.5

6                                 Harvard Univ.                                                        4.4

6                                 Univ. of California-Los Angeles                             4.4

6                                 Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities                             4.4

9                                 Carnegie Mellon Univ.                                             4.2

9                                 Princeton Univ.                                                          4.2

9                                 Univ. of Pennsylvania                                                4.2

9                                 Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison                                        4.2

13                               Indiana Univ.-Bloomington                                          4.1

13                               Univ. of California-San Diego                                         4.1

13                               Univ. of North Carolina-Chapel Hill                               4.1

16                               Johns Hopkins Univ.                                                       4.0

16                               Univ. of Colorado-Boulder                                              4.0

16                               Univ. of Texas-Austin                                                  4.0

19                               Cornell Univ.                                                               3.9

19                               Duke Univ.                                                                   3.9

19                               Northwestern Univ.                                                  3.9

19                               Univ. of Chicago                                                      3.9

19                               Univ. of Washington                                                    3.9

24                               Columbia Univ.                                                             3.8

24                               Ohio State Univ.                                                             3.8

24                               Univ. of California-Irvine                                                 3.8

24                               Univ. of Virginia                                                              3.8

Top Specialty Programs

C linical Psychology

1. Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities

2. Univ. of Illinois-Urban a-Champaign

3. Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor

4. Univ. of California-Los Angeles

5. Univ. of Washington

Co unseling Psychology

1. Univ. of Maryland-College Park

2. Ohio State Univ.

3. Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities

4. Univ. of Missouri-Columbia

5. Univ. of Iowa

Developme n tal

2. Univ. of Virginia

2. Stanford Univ.

4. Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor

5. Univ. of Illinois-Urban a-Champaign

5. Univ. of California-Berkeley

Expe ri menta l P sychology

1. Stanford Univ.

2. Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor

3. Univ. of California-Berkeley

4. Univ. of Illinois-Urban a-Champaign

5. Carnegie Mellon Univ.

I ndustrial / Organizational

2. Univ. of Maryland-College Park

3. Michigan State Univ.

4. Ohio State Univ.

5. Bowling Green State Univ.

5. Univ. of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign

Schoo l Psychology

1. Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison

2. Univ. of Texas-Austin

3. Univ. of South Carolina-Columbia

3. Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln

3. Columbia Univ.

(The response rate for psychology was 34%, the lowest response rate for the six PhD fields surveyed. Political Science had the highest response rate, at 54%.)

Reprinted with permission from US News and World Report. Copyright, 1995, US News and World Report.

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The Ultimate Guide to Studying in United States in 2024

Browse all phd programmes in united states.

• Aug-Jun Academic Year
• 171 Listed Institutes
• 304 Ranked Universities
• 957,000 Int. Students
• 18,757,000 Students
• 331,900,000 Population

Why study in United States

The USA is the favourite destination for international students, and there are over a million head there yearly, nearly twice as many as the second-placed country, the UK. In fact, there are nearly as many international students in the US as there are in the whole of Europe, although you should decide whether an American or European education is best for you rather than just following the crowd. But why do international students choose to study in America? There are plenty of reasons . A key attraction are the world-leading universities, but just as attractive are the opportunities to study in world cities, take advantage of links with global businesses and tech innovators, or just to experience the culture of a nation that has shaped the world we live in. 

• America is the world’s education super-power. Its universities dominate the world rankings:   they take seven of the top 10 spots , including the first three, according to Meta-ranking. If you want a Bachelor’s or Master’s recognised as high quality the world over, American universities will have you covered. 
• There are over 4,300 universities to choose from.  If you're looking to study at a university in the United States , you will find a plethora of study programmes, offering extensive academic programmes and diverse campus environments. Whatever you want to study, there will be a centre of excellence for you. 
• America is incredibly diverse. It was built by migrants, and that shapes the nation today. Depending on where in America you study , you will see influences from all over the world. If you want to experience a true melting pot of global diversity, nowhere is better than America. 
• America leads the world in many sectors. When you think of almost any industry, you’ll probably think of the American — and world — centre. From New York for finance, to LA for entertainment, or San Francisco for technology. If you want to be close to the world’s best in almost any category, head to the USA. 
• The USA is one of the world’s most geographically vibrant and diverse nations. From the gleaming glass and steel of New York’s skyscrapers to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, or the cold expanses of Alaska to the surfing paradise of Hawaii, America really has everything. 

Why else choose America for study? It is academically innovative. For example, universities have followed the lead of Silicon Valley in providing education in the latest technologies, with some universities, like Caltech or MIT, with an especially strong reputation in the area. The USA was the first country to offer MBAs, while American universities drive new thinking in psychology and economics. American universities lead the world when it comes to the latest courses and thinking. 

And it would be impossible to talk about American universities without a mention of the Ivy League. Although, originally, a sporting league for some of the East Coast’s older universities, the term is more often used to refer to a set of universities that offer academic excellence. But while the Ivy League colleges are, undoubtedly, excellent, the strength of American education is such that there are plenty of other universities mounting a strong challenge when it comes to academics. 

Culture in United States

Most people will think they understand the culture of the United States. However, these beliefs are often shaped by media representations in books, on television and in movies. But these stereotypes hide the incredible cultural diversity in America, a country that spans a continent and is home to over 300 million people. 

American culture and lifestyle reflect the modern nation’s origin as a set of British colonies. Although the American Revolution marked a break with its British past, much was kept. English is still the dominant language, although many speak Spanish, especially in the southern states where there has been immigration from Latin American countries. It has also kept the protestant ethics of the UK. 

However, America’s story of freedom and opportunity has attracted people from all over the world. These have typically been from European countries, and there are significant communities with Irish or Italian roots, especially on the East Coast. The West Coast, meanwhile, has seen migration from across the Pacific, with significant Chinese and Japanese communities. 

This has resulted in some specific contributions to American food culture. However, Italians may be horrified to learn that Americans argue whether the best pizza is from New York or Chicago, while Chinese people won’t recognise the fortune cookie presented after meals.  

More recently, migration from other parts of the world has increased. However, America has quite strict limits on immigration, meaning it has less impact on diversity and culture than it once did. But its history has created a population that is progressive and welcoming, especially in urban areas and on university campuses. 

How to choose a university in United States?

When it comes to deciding where to study, you will be spoiled for choice, and if you are an international student with no other links to the USA, it can be overwhelming. It would simply be impossible to decide between all the places that offer degrees. Instead, your choosing a university checklist will have to start with making a shortlist. 

• Decide what criteria are important to you for your choice. Do you want to study in a specific area or city, are you looking for a particular subject, or is there effectively a shortlist already because you want to go to an Ivy League college? There may be some overlap in these questions, for example, a finance-related degree might naturally lead you to consider New York ’s universities. 
• When you have your shortlist, research your choices, and identify the key facts, like admissions criteria and costs, as well as things like the admissions process and deadlines. This may help you narrow down your choice even more. 
• Consider the academic experience you want. Just like every student is different, every university is different. You might want to look for courses that feature extensive placements, or you might prefer a more academic approach to your topic. Finding a university and course that best matches your learning style will ensure that your education will not just be successful but will be enjoyable too. 
• Think about the living and cultural experience you want. The size of America’s education sector means there are plenty of options to choose from. Are you looking to study in a vibrant city, where your lectures take place next to the hustle and bustle of daily life, or would you prefer a campus-based experience where you are surrounded by university life? 

What are the best universities in America? 

You might assume that the Ivy League offer the best universities in America, but while they are good, rankings like QS illustrate how good American universities are. Here are the five top-rated universities in America , and, amazingly, they are all in the world's top ten. 

• MIT, or Massachusetts Institute of Technology , isn’t just the best-rated university in America, it’s the best in the world in the QS rankings. And don’t let the name mislead you, it offers Bachelor’s and Master’s in non-technology subjects, and often tops the rankings in those too. 
• Founded by a railroad tycoon, Stanford University continues the entrepreneurial instincts of its founder. As well as lots of former students becoming academic and political leaders, it’s estimated that its alumni-founded businesses would, in total, be the seventh-largest economy in the world. 
• Harvard University is surprisingly the only Ivy League school in the top five. America’s oldest university, it predates the Declaration of Independence by 140 years. It has an international reputation, in large part because of the strength of its graduate schools. 
• Caltech, formally known as the California Institute of Technology , has a world-wide association with science and technology, it even manages NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. But it is associated with major breakthroughs and advances in every field of science, as shown by the 79 Nobel Laureates associated with Caltech. 
• University of Chicago , finishes the QS top five. Its strong research ethos has meant that while some colleges are associated with a school of thought, when you refer to ‘the Chicago school’ you could mean one of five different area where Chicago has worldwide influence. 

>>> Find out how America’s universities perform in all the major rankings . 

What are the top student hubs in America? 

New York is, unsurprisingly, one centre, boasting dozens of colleges and universities, including Cornell and Columbia, nestling in one of the world’s most exciting cities. 

However, there are other popular destinations, like Cambridge, Massachusetts, which was named in honour of the University of Cambridge but is now home to both Harvard and MIT, among others. While Durham, in North Carolina, is home to Duke and North Carolina Central University , and forms a corner of the research triangle that also contains the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill . 

However, it sometimes seems everyone wants to study in America , and with so many students, domestic and international, it’s hard to find an American city that isn’t a student hub! 

Tuition Fees in United States

It will come as no surprise that you will have to pay tuition fees in America. Students at American universities must pay fees ranging from around $10,000 to over $60,000 a year for a Bachelor’s degree, although prices tend to be around $25,000 or $40,000 depending on the type of university you attend. Prices for a Master’s degree tend to average around $30,000 a year, but some courses can be significantly cheaper. 

On top of that, there are often more fees that you will have to pay to remain enrolled. An American education can offer many benefits, both while you are a student and afterwards, but it is not cheap. And if you are an international student, you will need to be able to show how you will meet the fees to get a visa, so the cost is something you will need to consider. 

The American higher education system includes many models, and while they may all offer a high-quality education, cost is one of the biggest ways they differ . 

Many universities, including some of the most prestigious, are private institutions. These rely on income from fees or endowments and tend to be the most expensive at around $40,000 a year. The most expensive institutions, which tend to be the most prestigious, like Harvard or Stanford, can cost around $60,000 a year, making a four-year degree, along with living expenses, very costly. 

State institutions, which receive public funding, are significantly cheaper. For non-state residents these are usually between $20,000-$25,000 a year. Students from the same state, however, pay even less, typically around $10,000 a year. 

However, all universities will point out that their fees, and what students pay, are very different things. And there are many ways to ensure your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree is more affordable than the fees might suggest. 

Learn about tuition fee insurance for international students and why it's useful .

>>> Use the ‘Tuition fee’ filter on the left menu of our Bachelor’s , Master’s or PhD search pages to find the programme best suited for your budget. You can also sort the list of available programmes by Lowest tuition fee by clicking the top right Sort button. 

Can I study in United States for free?

Unfortunately, there is no free education in America for international students. Indeed, because the cheapest fees are for residents of the state that funds the university, international students will usually be looking at fees that start in the middle of the fees range. 

If you are wondering how to study in America for free, there is some good news. Generally speaking, international students not only pay the same as domestic students at most universities, but they also have access to the same funding opportunities as everyone else. Indeed, some of the most expensive universities say that the funding they make available can mean that almost all your costs, including their fees, are covered. 

Financial Aid and Scholarships in United States

Most students, domestic and international, at American universities will benefit from some form of aid or scholarship . However, getting them may be as difficult as getting on the course itself! 

The US State department’s Education USA website highlights a choice of available scholarships. Some of these are general awards, which can fund a degree at any qualifying institution. However, most awards will relate to specific colleges and universities. 

>>> If you want a scholarship in the USA, check out the Mastersportal scholarship search . 

Types of scholarships on offer 

A lot of the funding available for students comes from donations and gifts, often from former students. It can mean that in some places there are hundreds of potential awards. Typically, funding is available as either scholarships or grants . 

Scholarships will usually have an academic part to them. They may require a particular level of qualification, or skill, to be proven to be awarded. They will typically be limited, meaning only a specific number or amount is awarded each year. A common question is ‘how many scholarships should I apply for?’ Because they are so competitive, it’s often a good idea to apply for all those that you meet the criteria for. 

Grants are awarded based on need. These will need evidence of income to prove the level of support needed. Generally, universities award these to all that need them, so if you meet the criteria, you will receive an award. 

Where you can find scholarships 

You should think about funding at the same time you are thinking about applying, and research the options available to you. Every university’s website will have a section dedicated to financial aid, helping you find the information you need easily. You will be able to find this easily by searching the website for terms like ‘financial aid’ or ‘scholarships’. 

Be sure to check the rules for the schemes you want to apply to, you can sometimes apply before, or often at the same time, as you apply for a place. And, whatever the deadline, you will have to ensure that you have a decision in place before you apply for your student visa. 

There is generally no limit to the number of applications you can make. However, most universities operate a combined application scheme, meaning that you only need to make one application which will be considered in all the schemes for which you are eligible. 

The Education USA site lists some scholarships , and can be filtered to help identify options available to your specific country. However, it only shows a limited number of options. 

Mastersportal is a good place to figure out where to apply for scholarships in America. You can find hundreds of available options provided by NGOs, governmental or private institutions, and universities. 

And if you are looking for a scholarship, why not apply for the Studyportals Scholarship – International Distinction Award . It’s open to all international students, and you can find more in our FAQ . 

How to apply 

The exact process will depend on the scholarship, bursary, or aid you are applying for, and where you are applying. 

The first thing you should do is carefully check the rules and guidelines. They will all follow a similar process, but will not be identical, so make sure you don’t get caught out. 

• The most important thing is to check the eligibility criteria. Competitive scholarships will have countless applicants, so if you don’t fully meet the criteria, you won’t be considered. And if you are applying for a needs-based grant, you will be rejected. 
• Make sure you gather all the documents you need and keep them in a safe place. If you are applying to several places, you will need them again. 
• Once you have everything, complete the application. Again, check this carefully — and ask others to check for you. An incomplete or wrong entry will, at best, delay a decision and possibly any funding. At worst, it might mean you are unsuccessful. 
• And when you have a decision, don’t celebrate straight away. Make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions that are attached to it. And if you have other applications pending, it might even be worth waiting for all your decisions to make sure you accept the best one for you. 

What to include in your application 

Each scheme will advise exactly what you need to include in your application. However, in general, they will be looking to establish that you are eligible for the award, and possibly to understand your motivation in applying. 

This means that, on top of your personal information, they are likely to want some financial information to show your level of need for aid. 

If you are applying for a merit-based scholarship, they will also need additional evidence like previous qualifications, like a portfolio or letters of recommendation from previous teachers and tutors. 

They may also require you to write a letter of motivation, outlining why you are applying for funding and why you feel you should be the successful candidate. If you need to write one, then our advice on writing a great letter of motivation will help. 

Interested in scholarships for United States? Check out our scholarship search page.

Apply to university in United States

American universities all handle their own admissions, and, unlike some other countries, there are no central processes for either domestic or international students. This means you may have to manage multiple applications. 

How to apply

Having to apply to each university means each might offer a slightly different application process . However, they all follow a similar pattern, requiring an online application and submission of documents. 

The online application will generally include basic information, like your personal details and contact details for tutors or those providing references, as well as your previous and current schools or colleges. 

You will also need to pay an application fee. How much does it cost to apply to university? The fee is usually between $50 and $150. You might also have been wondering if you can apply to two courses at the same university, and the good news is that most run a common application system, meaning that you can complete a single application for different colleges or courses. If you are applying to multiple universities, though, the costs may soon mount, meaning you will probably want to limit your applications to where you have a reasonable chance of securing a place. The acceptance rates for courses vary dramatically, our guide will give you a good idea of the competition there is for university places in America . 

You will also have to submit various documents depending on the course. Common requirements are qualification certificates (including a specific GPA ), portfolios, and proof of English language ability. How these are sent may also vary, since some universities may have strict requirements about establishing authenticity. 

Finally, some universities may offer an interview. This is more common with prestigious universities like Ivy League colleges (read our advice on applications to Ivy League colleges ). This is not, usually, a formal part of the application process, and takes place with an alumnus near to you. There is no obligation to have an interview, but many value the opportunity to find out more and start preparing for their time as a student. 

What’s the structure of the American academic year 

American universities mostly follow the English structure of having three semesters a year, although precise dates will vary, they are broadly follow the pattern: 

• Fall semester runs from September to December 
• Spring semester lasts from January to April 
• Summer semester lasts from May until July. 

The academic year starts in September, and most universities will only offer a single start each year. 

When to apply for American universities 

Each university will have its own deadlines, so check these carefully. Usually, the deadline to apply for university is in the December or January before entry. 

Most universities make decisions quickly, and by the end of the March almost all decisions will have been issued. Applying early means you will get a decision sooner and can start making plans whatever the outcome. 

Documents needed to apply for university 

The documents needed to apply for university will vary from course to course. 

At a minimum, you will need to show your academic qualifications, either with a transcript of your school record or first degrees, or both. These must be recognised qualifications, and depending on who issued them you may have to arrange for them to be translated and certified. 

Language requirements

Although America has no official language, English is the dominant tongue, and the one used in universities. You will, therefore, need to prove your fluency. How can you demonstrate proficiency in English? There are two ways. 

Most universities will accept earlier education in English as evidence of fluency. Typically, this will require three years of instruction solely in English, for example at school or a Bachelor’s degree. 

Alternatively, universities will accept commonly recognised English tests. The exact requirements will vary between universities and even courses. Tests, and the scores you need, include: 

• IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System). Most universities will look for at least 7.5 on this test. 
• TOEFL iBT (The Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test). A score of 100 or more is usually needed. 
• PTE Academic (Pearsons Test of English Academic). A minimum score of 68 is usually requested. 
• iTEP (International Test of English Proficiency). A score of 4.5 or higher. 
• C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (Cambridge English: Advanced or Proficiency). A core of 190 or more. 

Another possibility may be the Duolingo English Test. Although not as established, it is gaining wider acceptance, and is an easy-to-access test. Typically, a score of at least 125 is needed. 

Student housing in United States

Anyone who has watched American movies will know that the college dorm or frat house is no stranger to the screen. It could almost be a character itself. But you’ll probably be relieved to know that the movie image of raucous college life is different from the reality. 

What the movies do show, however, is that on-campus student housing in America, or dorms, remains a key part of student life for many. 

While it varies between universities, most Bachelor’s degree students and many Master’s degree students, will have the possibility of living in college accommodation for at least part of their course. The nature of this will vary. Large campus universities may have everything on a single site, meaning you could spend your entire course never leaving the university. Other universities, especially those that are based in larger cities, may offer accommodation, but this might be separate to other parts of the university, and even require a commute to your classes. 

College accommodation will typically consist of a bedroom with some study space, with shared facilities like bathrooms and kitchens. Some may also offer access to catering facilities. Living in college accommodation can be one of the most enjoyable parts of being an international student in America, allowing you to immerse yourself in the student culture. 

Off-campus student housing is also possible, and most Master’s students will tend not to live in university accommodation. 

One option is for private student accommodation. These are becoming increasingly common in areas with significant student populations, especially where university accommodation cannot meet demand. They are popular not just with students who miss university-controlled accommodation, but also those who want a little more independence. 

Private accommodation often looks a lot like a campus dorm, with students having a bedroom and study area, and sharing other facilities. However, there are more options depending on your budget, for example, private bathrooms or regular servicing of your room. 

Finally, there is the possibility of private rental. This is often popular with students who want to share with friends. There is a strong rental market in the US, especially in urban areas. However, demand can be high, and rent can be costly. 

When to apply for student accommodation 

The deadlines set by your university will determine when to apply for student housing. But regardless of what type of accommodation you are hoping to secure, the best advice is to apply as soon as you have a place. 

If you are looking for off-campus accommodation, then you should start looking once you have a place. And it is sensible to have done a little research even before then, so you know exactly what and where you can afford to rent. 

Cost of living in United States

Like most countries, the cost of living varies across America. As might be expected, cities tend to be the most expensive, and across the country, the south and midwestern states tend to be the cheapest. 

Generally, though, America can be one of the more reasonable places to live, and comparable to other Western nations when it comes to costs. Our article on student living in America offers more details. 

For most, rent is likely to be the biggest cost (after course fees) and can vary dramatically. Living in a major city like New York or Boston might cost you as much as $3,000 a month for a single bedroom. Studying at a mid-western university could reduce that to just $600. 

But don’t forget that you will have to include other costs on top of this. You might save on rent at that rural university, but then must pay all the costs of owning a car to get around. Meanwhile, it’s possible to save on rent in cities by living further away from the centre and utilising the well-developed public transport that most major American cities have. 

Cost of food in America 

One area where America can be cheaper than other nations is food. A single person might want to budget between $400 and $600 a month to cover the cost of food in America, but shopping around can bring that amount down significantly. And eating out can be surprisingly cheap too, even in cities. 

However, don’t be caught out, like many are, by things like tipping and taxes. Tipping is expected almost everywhere that serves food or drink, which adds to the total you must pay. And price tags will not include sales taxes, which are set locally and will sometimes include taxes from both the state and city. However, it does mean that if you are savvy, and close to a state or municipal border, you can often make easy savings on your shopping! 

Work and study in United States

Are international students allowed to work in america.

The F-1 Visa does allow international students to work while in America, but there are strict limits. 

First, working hours for international students in America are limited to 20 hours per week during term time. During vacations, full-time work is allowed, but only if you are registered to continue your studies the following semester. 

Second, and perhaps the most limiting, you are only allowed to work in jobs on your university campus. While this still allows for a wide variety of jobs, from working in stores, to technical roles in departments, and possibly even working as tutors if you are studying for a higher degree, there will be a lot of competition for few jobs. 

The only exception that allows work off campus is if it is for practical training related to your degree. However, this will require the permission of US Citizenship and Immigration Services and can only take place after you have completed at least one year of study. 

There are even limits on volunteering, meaning that you can’t for example, take on internships in non-educational settings. 

Where can I find jobs? 

Since, as an international student, you can only work on your campus, your job search will be limited to your university. It may have a suitable vacancies section on its website, but its student services department is also likely to know of jobs suitable for students and may even have some that are particularly suitable for international students. 

It’s also worth asking in your department or places on campus that you use, since you might find out about posts that are coming up, giving you some extra time to think about your application. 

Is United States safe?

America is about as safe as most other Western countries. And like most countries, the dangers you might face will vary on where you are, but a little common sense will go a long way to ensuring that your time in America passes without incident. America is safe for international students. 

One belief of America that many international students and visitors have, fuelled by news coverage, is that the nation has a lot of gun crime. However, such incidents are thankfully rare. Indeed, in most of America, guns are not a major part of the culture. 

Crime tends to be higher in urban areas, but largely because of the increased opportunity such areas provide. Taking care to avoid unfamiliar places, staying in busy places, and avoiding showing off valuables like jewellery and phones will go a long way to avoiding being a victim of crime. 

In some parts of America, though, risks to safety may come from the elements, with some states particularly prone to extreme weather. It’s worth checking to see if you are in an area like this, and, if so, following on advice on what you might need to do, this might be as simple as being aware of where shelters are, or having a go-bag ready in case you need to leave your home for safety at short notice. 

Finally, you should ensure that you have adequate healthcare for your needs. This is not usually a requirement for your visa, although your university might include it as a condition of entry. However, American healthcare is incredibly expensive and there are only extremely limited public healthcare options available. 

You are unlikely to be able to access any healthcare at all if you do not have sufficient insurance or the ability to pay. And in the event you need emergency healthcare, while it will probably be provided, you will also get a big bill afterwards. 

Student insurance in United States

The standard F-1 visa does not require students to have any insurance while they are in America. Some universities, however, may have insurance requirements, most often addressing the need for health insurance. 

However, regardless of visa or college conditions , anyone visiting America, even for a short time, should get insurance. As previously noted, healthcare is very expensive in America, and even if you are in good health, there is no guarantee that it will last for the duration of your course, or that you won’t have an accident that requires treatment. 

On top of student health insurance, you should also consider other types of insurance such as student contents insurance, or student travel insurance if you intend to visit other parts of the country. While most insurance is never needed, you might be grateful for it if you do have to make a claim, especially as an international student far from the support of your home and family. 

>>>  Request an Aon Student Insurance online . For international students, researchers, Erasmus students and educational staff - we have the right insurance for your situation.

Support services available for international students

Your university will be the main place you go for any support. Each university will have its student support services and, because of the number of international students, almost all will have dedicated services for international students. 

These services will cover everything you need to make your studies a success, whether it’s help in accessing your education, support if you experience difficulties, or simply organising events and groups that help to make your student experience as positive as possible. 

Student organisations

Again, it is likely that your university will be your first destination when it comes to looking for student organisations, and there will be an international student organisation that will make it easy to meet fellow students from around the world. 

You should also make yourself familiar with the student government in your university. These all take different forms but are there to represent students to the university. They will usually have a role in organising and providing some of the cultural experiences of university life, and frequently play a role in student welfare. 

However, there are also many intercollegiate societies which may be national, state-wide, or in their own network, which are often organised around subjects or interests, like the American Medical Student Association . Your university’s student support services will have details of the ones that you can access. 

Things to do for students on a budget

Although America is a single country, it is sometimes better to think about it as a collection of very different states. It’s simply impossible to write a comprehensive list of the free things to do in America for students, but because it’s such a popular destination, there are plenty of resources, from specific student guides to established guidebooks like Lonely Planet . 

But there is no shortage of things to do. Whether it’s just absorbing the culture in places like New York’s Central Park or San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, or visiting majestic sites like Niagara Falls or the Grand Canyon. If you want a country where you can get everything from the miracles of nature to the wonders of human engineering, it’s hard to beat America. 

Top urban attractions for students 

The difficulty in listing the best things to do in America is that there are so many attractions. A single city can give you access to dozens of world-famous attractions. And even listing cities is hard because there are so many you will want to see. 

• New York . It’s hard to imagine a list that won’t have New York at the top. From the hustle of Wall Street to the calm of Central Park. Don’t miss seeing the bay (the Staten Island Ferry is free) with the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or experiencing the night-time buzz of Times Square. 
• San Francisco . The city’s hills mean that you are never far from a great view, and hardly ever off a street that hasn’t featured in a movie car chase! Take time to visit the bay, where you can see the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz, and even see the sea-lions at the end of Pier 39. 
• Philadelphia . If you are a history buff, then a visit to Philadelphia, which saw the birth of modern America, is a must. You can visit Independence Hall and learn more at the National Constitution Center. And, if continuing the movie theme, you can emulate Rocky’s run up the steps outside the Museum of Art. 
• New Orleans. The Big Easy is renowned for its party atmosphere, and you’ll soon find out why. With its Caribbean-colonial feel, plethora of music venues, and delicious food, it’s impossible not to have a good time. 
• Los Angeles . A huge city that divides opinion, it’s hard to argue that it doesn’t have something for everyone whether you want to star-spot in neighbouring Hollywood on the Sunset Boulevard, or star-gaze at the Griffith Observatory, or anything in between. 

Top 5 Outdoor Attractions 

The USA is blessed with a variety of outdoor attractions. Perhaps the best are the 63 National Parks, which, since the first was founded in the 19th century, exist to protect and promote America’s natural heritage. 

• Yellowstone . The first national park, it boasts stunning scenery including mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and lakes. But it is most famous for the geothermal activity throughout, the park has more than half of the world’s geysers, but the most famous is Old Faithful, which has erupted every one to two hours since its discovery. 
• The Grand Canyon . Another national park, the Grand Canyon, must be seen to be appreciated: over a kilometre-and-a-half deep and more than fifteen kilometres wide, it is a truly enormous canyon. If you are feeling brave, try the Skywalk, where you can experience the height of the canyon from a glass-floored balcony. 
• New England in fall. For anyone from a temperate climate with a fall or autumn season, it is hard to explain, but seeing New England in the fall is incredibly popular. Hundreds of thousands head there to see the changing of the seasons. But combine the natural beauty with visits to places like Boston or the coastal resort of Cape Cod. 
• The Florida Everglades . The tropical wetlands of the Everglades cover a significant part of southern Florida and mark the transition from subtropical to tropical climate. A popular way to see them is by airboat, which gives a sense of the size of the region, which also offers the chance to see some of the wildlife, including the alligators. 
• Alaska. If you want to brave somewhere chillier, why not visit Alaska? At the Glacier Bay National Park you can see how glaciers have shaped the rugged coastlines and are continuing to shape life today. And if you really want a challenge, why not visit Denali , North America’s highest peak and, when measured from its base, even taller than Everest! 

Travelling in America 

One of the first things to understand about travelling in America is that the distances can be enormous. A flight from coast to coast will take around five hours, and American’s typically refer to car journeys by the number of hours they take. 

However, it does mean there are plenty of options for getting around to suit all budgets, and internal travel can often be surprisingly affordable. 

Flying is, obviously, the quickest way to get around America, and most major airports will have regular flights between them. There are several sites that offer discounted flights for students, and it’s always worth shopping around. 

If you have more time, then taking trains can be a great way to travel. And an excellent way to see parts of the country you might never see by plane, and offer comfortable facilities on-board, including beds for longer journeys. They also offer a range of discounts, for example for groups travelling together. 

Alternatively, coach travel is common in America, and the Greyhound is the most famous example. The extensive coach network can take you anywhere you want to go and is one of the most affordable ways to travel. But coach travel can be slow, so plan ahead and take the opportunity to break up your trip with interesting visits. 

Learning English and Spanish

English is the predominant language in America, although other languages are spoken by immigrant communities, the most common being Spanish, in places like Florida with a large Cuban community, or Texas and New Mexico, where large numbers of Latin Americans have settled. However, your tuition will be in English, and you will need to be proficient to gain a place.  

Fortunately, America’s culture helps enormously. Because of its prolific media position, there are plenty of movies, television series, or even podcasts that you can use to practise listening and understanding English. And its position as a tech centre means there are plenty of English apps, to use, including those dedicated to language learning like Duolingo. 

Alternatively, because English is so widely spoken around the world, you will probably have friends or family members that you can practice with, and your school or university may well have a group or even formal lessons that can help you improve further. 

Living as an expat in United States

Immigration is a key part of the American story, and apart from Native Americans, most of the country’s citizens can only trace their American heritage a few hundred years at most. 

The nation has several significant immigrant groups, as well as large numbers who, although born American, will still identify with their ancestral home. The US Census estimates over 45,000,000 living in America were born elsewhere. Although historically immigration was dominated by Europeans, most immigration is now from Asia, with 2,750,000 Chinese-born residents, 2,700,000 Indian-born, nearly 2,000,000 Philippines-born, and over 1,300,000 Vietnamese-born residents. 

However, these numbers are dwarfed by those who keep their ancestral national identity. The most famous are the Irish, more than one-in-ten Americans identify as Irish American. Almost every culture will be represented not just by fellow citizens, but Americans who have kept the culture and identity of their parents, grandparents and beyond. 

Expat communities in America 

Across the world, migrants have tended to settle in cities. In America, the larger cities will often have large communities from around the world. In some cases, there will also be areas of towns and cities that reflect those cultures. Many places, for example, will have a ‘Little Italy’ or a ‘China Town’ where immigrants have set up restaurants and shops. 

More recently, the economy has driven much of the immigration. So, while universities still attract global communities, much of the Asian immigration has tended to head towards the West Coast, where Silicon Valley saw the birth of the tech industry, which has spread throughout California and the other coastal states of Oregon and Washington. 

United States Immigration rules

How your immigration status changes after graduation .

It is important to note that America is incredibly strict about visa rules. Although most international students will have a standard F-1 visa, it’s important to check there are no other conditions or rules around your stay. Breaching your visa conditions may prevent you from being allowed into America again. 

Usually, your visa will expire when you graduate. The US will expect you to leave the country and return to your home when this happens. Those on a student visa do have a 60-day grace period, during which they can remain in the US. However, it does not allow return to the US, so once you leave you will need to seek a new visa to return, even if your grace period has not expired. 

Unlike many countries, there is no automatic right to extension, for example a temporary work visa, after graduation. However, there are several visas that graduates can apply for if they wish to remain in the US. 

Types of Visa 

One option is to apply for an Optional Practical Training extension. This allows you to work for one year, for up to 20 hours a week. If you are a STEM graduate, you can also apply for an additional year’s extension, allowing you to remain for two years. 

This option is only available if you have not already undertaken Optional Practical Training during your course, and your application will need to be started with your university, who will formally recommend it. Applications can take several months, so need to be started long before your F-1 visa expires.  

You can only work in roles that are directly related to your course and qualification. However, it is a common option, particularly for those looking to work in the tech sector, and many international companies like Apple, Facebook, and Google hire large numbers on OPT visas. 

Another possibility is to get your visa sponsored by an employer. The H1-B visa can only be applied for by an employer, who must state that you are particularly skilled or promising in your field. And having a good degree will help prove your case; find out how to interpret your grade in our guide . Again, most are issued for those working in technology and in STEM more generally. And, unsurprisingly, many result from successful roles undertaken with OPT visas. 

The H1-B visa lasts for three years, and can be extended to six years. There is also the possibility at the end of securing a Green Card, which gives the right to remain and work in the USA as a permanent resident. However, Green Cards are incredibly difficult to get, especially because the numbers issued are capped, so, as always, if you are keen to remain in the USA, the sooner you start planning and applying, the better. 

Immigration processing times 

Be prepared for a long wait for any visa application, these will typically take months, but can take over a year. And, because of America’s strict rules, if you don’t apply early enough, you might find yourself having to leave until the process is completed. 

The US State Department publishes current processing time on its website , and these can vary not just based on the time of year, but even between their processing centres. An application for an OPT placement, will take around 7–8 months. An I-129, submitted by an employer to gain an H1-B visa, is quicker, and usually decided within two months. 

Job opportunities in United States

Although America prides itself as a land of opportunity, there isn’t quite as much opportunity for international students that have recently graduated. The requirement to work in a field related to your studies with an OPT visa will limit the places that you can work. And while any employer can apply for an H1-B for you, there is, obviously, the challenge of first getting that job, and then your employer successfully applying for the visa. 

However, large numbers of students do successful seek employment, and an American degree can set you up for a high-earning career . According to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency , between 150,000 and 200,000 OPT applications are granted each year, although some will be during courses, it will still represent a large proportion of those graduating each year. 

Continue your studies in United States

Another option is to continue studying in the US. There is no limit to the number of F-1 visas you can have, and you can simply apply for a new visa. However, you may have to make that application through your home nation to show that you still maintain a home there. 

• Apply for a Master’s degree: If you have completed a Bachelor’s degree, then you might want to develop that with the specialist knowledge that comes from a Master’s course. You can find more than 35,000 Master’s degrees on Master’s Portal . 
• Apply for a PhD: The highest academic qualification you can get. A PhD is a research-based degree that allows you to study your chosen field in depth, and results in research that adds to the sum of human knowledge. We list over 3,000 PhDs in the United States . 

Frequently asked questions

1. do international students need a visa to study in america .

Yes. There are several student visas, but covering different situations, but if you are hoping to study a complete Bachelor’s or Master’s programme, you will need an F-1 visa. 

2. Is studying in America worth it? 

There is lots of research highlighting the long-term value of a degree, and America has some of the world’s best-rated and most prestigious universities. Studying in America will give you a qualification that will be recognised anywhere. 

3. What is the cost of studying in America? 

Fees vary enormously, from around $20,000 to $60,000 a year. However, there are plenty of scholarships and bursaries available, and very few students pay the full costs of their course. 

4. How much money is required to study in America? 

On top of your university fees, you will need to cover your living expenses. These will vary dramatically depending on where you are studying and are likely to be between $1,200 and $3,500 a month. The biggest cost will be rent, which can be up to $3,000 in cities like New York or Los Angeles. 

5. Can I study in America without IELTS? 

You will need to prove fluency in English to study in the United States. IELT is one test, but many others are accepted. If you have already studied solely in English for several years, then you will not have to prove ability. 

6. What are the requirements to study in America? 

Essentially, you will need to get a place on a course, and each course will have its own requirements, which are usually proof of previous academic attainment. Apart from that, you will simply have to satisfy the visa requirements that you are of good character, have the means to support yourself and will leave the US when your course is complete. 

7. What exams are required to study in America? 

Universities will advise on which qualifications they accept. However, typically, they will accept any recognised qualifications from elsewhere in the world, for example degrees from other universities, A-levels from schools following the British system, or Baccalaureates. 

8. How to get permanent residency while studying in America? 

It is difficult to get permanent residency while studying. However, after graduation, it is often possible to remain in the US for practical training or secure a job that can sponsor a visa. It may then be possible to apply for permanent residency once established in a career in the US. 

Interesting programmes for you

Find phds degrees in united states, what subject to study in united states.

• Agriculture & Forestry 147 Masters
• Applied Sciences & Professions 159 Masters
• Arts, Design & Architecture 386 Masters
• Business & Management 472 Masters
• Computer Science & IT 316 Masters
• Education & Training 766 Masters
• Engineering & Technology 795 Masters
• Environmental Studies & Earth Sciences 393 Masters
• Hospitality, Leisure & Sports 45 Masters
• Humanities 660 Masters
• Journalism & Media 47 Masters
• Law 169 Masters
• Medicine & Health 1204 Masters
• Natural Sciences & Mathematics 1316 Masters
• Social Sciences 1155 Masters

PhD Degrees in United States

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) 5700 programmes
• Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) 51 programmes
• Doctorate (Doctorate) 101 programmes

Recent international policies promote international university cooperation and student exchange between countries worldwide. High-quality study and PhD degrees are made more available to students in order to create a global educational network, achievable through student and staff mobility. Career and research oriented programmes support international student development.

University cooperation enables students study worldwide, for instance in Australia, Asia, Europe and the United States and provides ways of recognizing previous degrees. Different study options offer appropriate alternatives to students, depending on their preferred mode of study.

Many study programmes in Australia, Asia, Europe and North America are English-taught. The most popular international student destinations include the following countries: Australia, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, the United States, and more. However, these are not the only countries offering English-taught education. The rest of the world is full of endless study choices, from highly ranked to smaller, more specialized, universities.

PhD (postgraduate) Degrees

If you want further education beyond the undergraduate level or if you want more personal development or a career in academia, you could obtain a PhD degree. PhD degrees are postgraduate programmes that usually follow a Master's, MPhil or MRes, but there might be additional requirements depending on the university. Students are required to do their own research in a chosen topic. With the help of a supervisor, you develop knowledge and analytical skills in a specific or multidisciplinary field and you carry out independent research. The duration of a PhD degree differs per country and institution. Sometimes your own research is accompanied by work for the department such as giving seminars or small group teaching.

PhD students are required to study on campus under close supervision, but there are universities that accept students enrolled into a part-time distance education PhD degree. Studying on campus can also be full-time as well as part-time, in which case the part-time variant is normally twice as long as the full-time study.

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• The Best Universities for PhDs in Business & Management in the USA (2024)

Written by FAU Bot

This article was written with the assistance of generative AI. All AI content on our site is guided and vetted for accuracy by humans, and data referenced is collected from reliable, authoritative sources.

Why Study Business & Management in the USA

There are many reasons why someone might want to study Business & Management at a university in the USA . Here are just a few:

• The USA is renowned for its top-rate business schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton. These institutions offer rigorous PhD programmes in Business and Management that provide students with a strong foundation in these subjects and position them for leadership roles in academia or industry.
• American universities are at the forefront of business research, offering students access to cutting-edge technology, vast resources, potential funding and an environment that encourages innovative thinking.
• The curriculum of these doctoral programmes incorporates both theoretical understanding as well as practical application of intricate business concepts covering areas such as operations management, organisational behavior, marketing strategies or financial analysis.
• A PhD from a US institution holds high prestige due to the country's rigorous academic standards and emphasis on research-based learning. This can lend increased credibility to your professional profile internationally.

The Best Universities for Business & Management in the USA

The following tables give the 10 top universities in the USA for Business & Management , according to global and local university rankings. It can show you which American universities are amongst the best in the world - and help you compare institutions on an international level.

This information is based on the latest rankings tables, researched and published by Times Higher Education , QS and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) .

Each ranking system uses its own methodology, with different factors having more or less influence on a university's result.

Our guide has more information on how to use international rankings to decide on the best research universities for PhD study .

What should I know about the Times Higher Education rankings?

The Times Higher Education rankings are strong in academic focus and diverse teaching metrics, but do not include employer-specific metrics. Additionally, the rankings may not include all specialist institutions.

What should I know about the QS rankings?

The QS World University Rankings are designed to meet the needs of prospective students, with more weight given to student-centric metrics such as staff/student ratio, international recruitment and employer opinion. The rankings are balanced between qualitative and quantitative data, but give less weight to research than some other rankings.

What should I know about the ARWU rankings?

The ARWU rankings reflect the presence of elite academics and the future academic success of graduates. However, they do not directly assess the quality of education at a university or take into account other aspects of university performance.

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CollegeRank.net

Best College Rankings

30 Best PhD Programs in English

Quick Highlights:

• Our #1 ranked school for a PhD in English is  University at Buffalo , followed by  University of California, Berkeley .
• PhD English programs focus on comprehensive English language and literature knowledge . They require coursework, exams, and a dissertation.
• Specializations may be available in areas like rhetoric and digital humanities.
• Many programs emphasize practical experience, including teaching opportunities and involvement in academic communities .

With one of the 30 top English PhD programs, career opportunities are numerous, because let’s face it: researching, writing, teaching, learning, communicating, and critical thinking all translate into a highly sought-after knowledge and skill set.

This is not a trick question: What would we do if we could not communicate with each other, whether verbally or in writing (or texting)?

Seriously think about it: Without language, what do we have?

There are those who live and breathe:

• sentence structures

They can’t seem to get enough of learning about the dynamic subject we call English. If you love language, writing, research, learning, and continuously searching for that right word, a PhD in English may be the graduate program you’re looking for.

Check out our top English PhD program rankings and start preparing for your future!

• Top MFA in Creative Writing
• Best PhD in Communications

What Is a PhD in English?

A PhD in English is a terminal degree, meaning it’s the highest you can get in any given subject. While concentrations and programs of study differ, three parts of an English PhD are certain:

• qualifying exams
• a dissertation

Coursework typically includes various literature classes to provide a strong breadth of English language and literature knowledge. Most top English PhD programs also require foreign language requirements. After the coursework is finished in around 2-3 years, English majors will take a comprehensive qualifying exam to achieve doctoral status. This exam covers all they have studied this far, and passing it will allow them to move on to their dissertation.

A dissertation is the final step to earning a PhD in English. Think of it as an independent research project that takes years to:

• compile information

The dissertation defense is the last step, where you present your project to a faculty panel.

Most top English PhD programs take five to seven years to complete, but of course, it depends on full-time or part-time status. It is also worth noting that many graduate schools, including the ones we have reviewed, provide full funding to the student earning a PhD.

You may also like: Doctorate vs PhD

What Are the Top English PhD Programs?

At CollegeRank , we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. Please feel free to visit our dedicated methodology page for a step-by-step breakdown. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Average Net Price

While all of our rankings in this article are notable, The University of Buffalo ranks in the top 1% of not just the country but the world by the Center for World University Rankings. Founded in 1846, SUNY Buffalo is the largest campus in the 64-campus SUNY system. It offers one of the best English PhD programs. It just happens to be our #1 choice!

What sets SUNY Buffalo apart from others? As a student, you are a part of a vibrant, supportive community as an active participant in every part of the program. You are not just going to school, but you are a part of the process. This includes attending and voting in department meetings and joining the English Graduate Student Association (EGSA).

This top PhD in English requires 72 credits, which are satisfied through ten graduate seminar courses in fields such as:

• American and British literature
• poetics and critical theory

You will then take an oral qualifying exam and complete and defend a “book-length work of original scholarship,” otherwise known as a dissertation.

As a graduate program student, you are encouraged to publish during your time at SUNY Buffalo and equipped with a third-year workshop for this goal. This graduate program takes approximately five years and is fully in person. You can apply through the Graduate Enrollment Services.

University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, California

Globally ranked as the fourth-best university according to U.S. News & World Report rankings, University of California-Berkeley has been described as a “glorious place,” full of “commitment to excellence.” This is a top graduate program in the country. The PhD in comparative literature, is both “historical and theoretical”. It includes a “signature combination of teaching and research on literature, film, and other media.”

In this English PhD program , you will choose one literature from a historical and critical perspective and complete comparative work in three kinds of literature. You will then complete ten courses encompassing:

• comparative
• major types of literature
• minor types of literature

The University of California-Berkeley says this program takes approximately seven years to complete and includes a recommended timetable to stay on track.

The University of California-Berkeley offers a myriad of fellowships and financial aid to help with the cost of this PhD program. In addition, you have the opportunity to seek employment through the department in teaching and research assistantship programs. Alumni have won national awards from the Modern Language Association and the American Comparative Literature Association (ACLA).

University of Maryland

College Park, Maryland

The University of Maryland is devoted to social entrepreneurship. It is recognized as the nation’s first  “Do Good” university. Home to over 41,000 students and 388,000 alumni, UMD spans 12 schools and colleges. It offers 297 academic programs, including the nationally ranked PhD in English. This graduate program prepares students who plan to teach at the university level with:

• language courses

Along with You will study an in-depth range of topics such as:

• literary and cultural history,
• aesthetic, critical and cultural theory
• digital and media studies
• humanistic engagement with the sciences
• language, rhetoric and composition

You will complete a minimum of 12 courses, including a foreign language requirement, while maintaining a 3.6 GPA. 

UMD’s top English PhD program is highly competitive but well worth the competition if you are accepted because all students receive a five-year funding package. To apply, you need to submit:

• a statement of goals and research interests
• transcripts
• three letters of recommendation
• a sample of critical writing
• an academic CV

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, Texas

UT Austin is not only known for its food (especially breakfast tacos!) and music, but it’s also our #4 ranking. It has:

• excellent academic programs
• extensive research
• shared values of “equity, excellence, innovation, and empowerment”

It is ranked #20 in Best Graduate Schools from U.S. News & World Report . UT Austin offers a PhD in English with a concentration in literature or rhetoric and digital literacies.

Whether you enter the program with a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, you are required to complete 39 graduate seminar hours before the end of your third year. You must pass the third-year examination to achieve doctoral candidacy. The final milestone for the PhD in English is the dissertation defense. Graduate students have access to six years of funding from combined teaching assistantships.

UT Austin’s admission is highly competitive. Each year, this English PhD program accepts 12-14 students into the literature concentration and four in the rhetoric and digital literacies program. You can apply through ApplyTexas if you have a BA or MA plus at least 15 hours of upper-division English credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

University of Wisconsin – Madison

Madison, Wisconsin

A top-ranked university with 19 faculty and alumni Nobel Prize winners? Yes, please! Check out UW-Madison, awarded #13 in America’s Best Colleges from U.S. News & Report . UW Madison offers more than 9,000 courses across over 450 academic programs, including a PhD in English with the following specializations:

• Composition and rhetoric
• English language and linguistics
• Literature studies

This graduate program “combines a sharp focus on conceptual approaches to literary and cultural works with a commitment to broad coverage of the field of Anglophone literature.” As a student, you will tailor the program to your career goals through a required minor. You will also study interdisciplinary areas such as:

• literary theory and criticism
• gender studies
• race and ethnic studies

You will complete 51-63 coursework credits depending on which concentration you choose. Each concentration includes:

• major courses
• minor courses
• research/method/tools courses

While some of the best English PhD rankings offer online or hybrid formats, UW-Madison’s coursework is face-to-face. Applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution. English degrees are preferred but they are not required.

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, Texas

Texas Tech warded a “Very High Research Activity” category by Carnegie Classification of Institution of Higher Education. It is a comprehensive public research university that spans 13 colleges and schools and 200 degree programs. At Texas Tech, you can earn a PhD in English with a specialization in literature.

One of the best parts of Texas Tech’s PhD in English is vast areas of study. You can choose any of the following concentrations:

• Early British literature
• Later British literature
• English and American literature
• Comparative literature, globalization, and translation
• Creative writing
• Linguistics
• Book history and digital humanities
• Film and media studies
• Literature, social justice, and environment

No matter which concentration you choose, you will take courses such as:

• Research Methods
• Critical Methods
• Writing for Publication
• Teaching College Literature

Texas Tech employs a holistic assessment for applicants while looking for:

• critical analysis skills
• a focused academic purpose
• strong letters of recommendation

University of South Florida

Tampa, Florida

Located in the heart of Tampa Bay, the University of South Florida is one of the fastest-rising universities in the nation. U.S. News and World Report ranks it as the 46th best public university in the country. At UCF, you can earn a PhD in English with either a literature or rhetoric and composition concentration.

UCF’s top English PhD program requires at least 30 hours of coursework, including:

• Scholarly Research and Writing
• Teaching Practicum
• Studies in Criticism and Theory

After completing your coursework, you must create and submit a portfolio and fulfill a foreign language requirement before you are admitted to doctoral candidacy. Then, the real fun starts: writing your dissertation.

USF graduate students can also earn graduate certificates in:

• comparative literary studies
• creative writing
• digital humanities
• professional and technical communication

UCF’s program is pretty competitive. You need:

• a Master of Arts from an accredited university
• at least a 3.7 GPA
• “competitive” GRE verbal and analytical writing scores
• recommendation letters
• a scholarly writing sample
• a personal statement

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah

“Step One: Imagine. Step Two: Do.”

The University of Utah is fondly known by students, faculty, and alumni as “The U,”. It features a simple yet profound motto that has inspired many graduates to go on and make their mark on the world. Notable alumni include writer Orson Scott Card and award-winning actor Stephen Covey, among many others.

You, too, can imagine what is possible and then take action by checking out the top PhD in English . It has concentrations in rhetoric and composition or literacy and cultural studies. The program entails:

• Ten seminar courses (including four concentration courses)
• Four additional English courses
• Two courses in writing and rhetoric studies
• A qualifying exam
• A successful dissertation

The Department of English features ample opportunities for publications, along with the graduate student reading series, Working Dog, where you can showcase your original work to not only other classmates, but the public.

University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

The University of Arizona is a nationally ranked university in public research and best value. It features a rich Native American history. The first graduating class in 1895 included three students before Arizona was even a state!

Check out the PhD in rhetoric, composition, and teaching of English – perfect if you intend to teach at a four-year college or a writing program.  UA’s Department of English states that the graduates of this doctoral program are “distinguished for their public engagement and action-oriented research, published scholarship, and innovative teaching.” 

The University of Arizona has an outstanding 97% job placement. English PhD graduates find themselves as nationally recognized scholars teaching, researching, and writing all over the world.

In this top English PhD program, you will complete 66 credit units, which includes 18 dissertation credits. Courses include:

• Research Methods in Rhetoric and Composition
• Qualifying Portfolio Workshop

To apply, you need to submit:

• a CV, a statement of purpose
• unofficial transcripts
• a writing sample in rhetoric or composition

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

LSU is Louisiana’s flagship institution. Louisiana State University is known for its top-notch academics and impressive return on investments. Ninety-two percent of all students receive scholarships or financial aid. Two in three students graduate with absolutely no debt. LSU’s PhD in English arms graduate students with the knowledge and skills to become expert:

• researchers

Similar to most English PhD programs, this program is organized into three phases:

• dissertation

The coursework consists of 48 credit hours of literature that “range across periods, genres, and traditions,” and critical and theoretical methods. Students will then take their exams and progress into the dissertation phase.

Students typically write one chapter of their dissertation per semester while enrolled in the Dissertation Writing Workshop. A perk of this program is that you can apply if you have either a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Arts. If you already have a master’s degree, you can apply up to 24 credit hours toward this degree and finish the PhD in just four years.

Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

Arizona State University boasts several national recognitions. This includes #1 in the country for most innovative school and the best graduate schools from U.S. News & World Report. Among the half a million alumni include notable:

• politicians
• actors and actresses

ASU features a PhD in English literature that is worth checking out!

The PhD in English literature emphasizes literary texts not only from a cultural and historical perspective but also from the “production, distribution, and reception.” The “texts” are defined as “folklore, oral traditions, popular culture, and film and digital media in addition to traditional literature.” The graduate program includes 42-72 hours in coursework. It also includes 12 hours of dissertation work.

This doctoral program is highly flexible and allows you to take courses in your interest areas. Sample courses include:

• Methods and Issues in Teaching Composition
• Rhetorical Traditions

To apply you need:

• statement of purpose
• an academic writing sample of 10-25 pages

The deadline to apply is January 1, and the GRE is not required.

University of California – Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

Have you ever wondered which U.S. city features the most museums and theaters than any other city? Well, it’s Los Angeles!  UCLA is proud to be right in the center of the excitement. (And in case you’re wondering, LA is home to 105 museums and 225 theaters!) At UCLA-Los Angeles, you can join the current 15,724 graduate students and earn a comprehensive PhD in English literature.

UCLA structures its PhD in three stages. Stage one entails 14 graduate seminars in English literature, with various requirements to ensure a diverse depth of literature. Stage one also includes a first qualifying exam before you proceed to stage two for a second qualifying exam. Stage three is the research, writing, and completion of a dissertation. It begins in year five and typically takes two years to complete.

Component of UCLA’s PhD program include:

• dissertation project
• teacher training

Teaching assistantships are available and encouraged for graduate students. To apply you need to submit:

• a writing sample of 15-25 pages

Currently, the GRE exam requirement is waived because of Covid-19.

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, Michigan

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor was voted #1 for Best Small College Town in America and Best U.S. Public University ( QS World University Rankings and Wallethub ). It is globally recognized for its exceptional academic quality. U-M Ann Arbor features a stellar doctoral program in English language and literature for those who aim to:

• write in a collective community

This top English PhD program allows you to specialize in British, American, or anglophone literature. Also, to“explore a wide range of critical, theoretical, and cultural perspectives.” The program focuses on learning as a social process. This is one reason why English graduate students are guaranteed six years of program funding! A huge perk.

In your first year you will:

• complete two basic languages or one advanced language
• Introduction to Graduate Studies
• three upper-level seminars

Your second year will be devoted to the preliminary examination. In the third year, a third-year review, which will provide feedback and direction. Finally, you will devote your last few years to your dissertation.

University of Missouri

Columbia, Missouri

If you know what the Tiger Walk and Tiger Prowl are, you certainly are familiar with the University of Missouri. It is fondly known as Mizzou. With a long history of traditions, Mizzou’s pride is seen all over the world. You can earn a PhD in English in just five years, including 30 hours of coursework that provides “deep knowledge and methodological sophistication. with a concentration on creative writing or literature.

Sample courses include:

• Literacy Criticism
• The Theory and Practice of Teaching in English
• English Linguistics
• creative writing workshops if you choose the creative writing concentration

By the spring of your third year, you should begin writing your dissertation. This could be scholarly or creative, depending on your concentration. You will have two years to complete your dissertation before you defend it by the end of your fifth year.

Recent dissertation titles include:

• “Medieval Romance, Fanfiction, and the Erotics of Shame” 
• “Science Frictions: Science, Folklore, and ‘The Future ” 
• “Magical Safe Spaces: The Role of Literature in Medieval and Early Modern Magic” 

University of Virginia – Main Campus

Charlottesville, Virginia

The University of Virginia is one of the very best in the nation. Both U.S. News & World Report and Money Magazine rank UVA #2 and #4 as the best public university and the best value. UVA houses a PhD in English language, literature, and research that leads graduates to all types of careers in:

• education administration

This best English PhD program entails 72 credits, including courses like:

• Introduction to Literary Research
• Dissertation Seminar

During the second semester of the fourth year, students will give a 40-min talk about their dissertation. This is a great opportunity for students to share their work with a formal venue before they defend their dissertation later.

In addition to this degree, you can earn graduate certificates in:

• Comparative literature
• Gender and sexuality studies
• African studies
• Environmental humanities
• Digital humanities

Accepted students receive financial support and health insurance for at least five years of their duration in the program.

University of Tennessee Knoxville

Knoxville, Tennessee

Founded in 1794, UT Knoxville is one of the oldest in the country. UT Knoxville spreads across 910 acres. The 294 buildings house 11 colleges and 900 programs of study! If you’re a teacher and want to continue your education studies, then UT’s PhD in literacy studies and education may be for you.

This program is not a standard PhD in English. It combines English and education and allows you to choose from a number of concentrations and specializations. You can choose between literacy studies and education. Then you can further choose an emphasis like:

• children’s and young adult literature
• ESL education
• literacy education

This program includes 48 credit hours beyond a master’s degree. This includes six credits in a cognate area and 24 hours of doctoral research and dissertation courses. Comprehensive exams should be completed in five years. The dissertation should be completed within eight years. To apply to this program, you need at least three years of teaching experience.

University of Louisiana

Lafayette, Louisiana

Smart. Spirited. Solution-Driven.

Those are words to describe the University of Louisiana at Lafayette It is the second-largest university in Louisiana, home to over 19,000 students. We also must mention that UL’s sports teams are THE Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns®! With a PhD in English from UL, you will receive a strong background in British and American language and literature. You can further customize your program to match your career goals.

UL now has over 100 students in its PhD program, which is a lot for a PhD in English! You can specialize in four areas (out of 21!) such as:

• critical theory
• Africana literature
• feminist theory and criticism

The degree requires 72 credit hours, which include 48 in coursework and 24 in dissertation research.

UL’s PhD program asks for application materials that “testify to solid academic preparation for advanced work.” These materials include:

• Transcripts
• Recommendation letters
• A Statement of purpose
• A CV with relevant academic/professional experience
• A critical (or creative) writing sample
• Optional GRE scores

To enter in the spring, submit your application by November 15.

New York University

New York City, New York

Imagine studying English in one of the most vibrant cities in the nation: New York City. New York University Steinhardt is a top university. It is ranked #10 among the Best Graduate Schools in Education ( U.S. News & World Report ). NYU Steinhardt offers a range of programs:

• doctoral programs

This includes the notable PhD in English education: secondary and college.

This doctoral program at New York University prepares graduates to become:

• university researchers
• English curriculum specialists
• post-secondary English language educators

You will enjoy small classes in one of the most diverse settings in the world: New York City! As a student, you will complete 48-60 credits, depending on the focus area and prior coursework.

Coursework includes:

• teaching and learning seminars
• two cognate courses
• foundation requirements
• research methodology classes

Before beginning your dissertation, you will complete a research experience course to prepare you. While many programs require full-time status, you can complete this PhD full-time or part-time. To apply, you need:

• A statement of purpose
• A writing sample (no more than 20 pages)
• Three recommendation letters

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Benjamin Franklin once said, “well-done is better than well-said.” This statement, by the school’s founder, serves as the cornerstone tradition of the University of Pennsylvania. Since the 1740s, Penn continues to evolve into a place of social activism, touching all of its programs. Penn’s PhD in English combines English and American literature to produce a comprehensive program with a range of specializations.

This “intellectually dynamic and rigorous” PhD program prepares students to be scholars and educators of English. You can specialize in one primary field. Or you can specialize in two additional fields such as:

• contemporary poetry

Penn recognizes that true learning comes when students become active participants in their academic and social community. The program’s emphasis is on the relationships between scholars and faculty.

In this top English PhD program , you will take courses such as Teaching of Literature and Composition. This is along with six literature courses spanning throughout various time periods. During your third year, you will choose a specialization as you start working on your dissertation. All PhD students receive the Benjamin Franklin Fellowship, which covers tuition and health insurance for five years.

Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Have you ever wondered which academic institution is our nation’s oldest? Well, it’s Harvard University, established in 1636! With over 400,000 alumni all over the world including:

• 49 Nobel Laureates
• 32 heads of state
• 48 Pulitzer Prize winners

It’s no wonder Harvard University made our list of top English PhD rankings. After all, it’s Harvard! Check out Harvard University’s PhD in English that covers topics ranging from medieval literature to criticism and theory.

Harvard’s PhD in English provides a broad knowledge of English and teaches students to:

• research and write well
• teach effectively
• present their research at conferences and seminars

The first two years are devoted to coursework and preparing for the PhD qualifying exam, while the rest of the time is spent working on the dissertation.

Check out the many past doctoral theses and dissertations published on Harvard University’s website. Harvard states that this program typically takes between four and seven years. Most students finishing in five or six years. While GRE scores are not required for admission, past English classes, strong writing samples, and excellent letters of recommendation are.

Columbia University in the City of New York

A private Ivy League University, Columbia University has been a leader in higher education for over 250 years. Columbia University spans three undergraduate schools and 13 graduate schools. This includes the Teacher College, which opened in 1880. Columbia’s Teacher College features a PhD in English education for students who aim to become teachers and researchers in higher education.

This English PhD program includes 75 credits, and students may transfer up to 30 credits from previous graduate work. All PhD English education majors will take courses like:

• Research Paper: Teaching of English
• Professional Seminar: Foundational Texts

As a student, you stay on track through:

• milestones of coursework
• meeting with your dissertation committee

While most doctoral English PhD programs only admit students once a year, Columbia’s program allows entry in both the summer and fall. To apply you need:

• a master’s degree in English
• education or a related field
• at least 3-5 years of full-time teaching experience
• an academic writing sample

Cornell University

Ithaca, New York

Cornell University is a private Ivy League research university in Ithaca, NY. It is home to over 24,000 students. This top-ranked university includes 15 colleges and schools, including The College of Arts and Sciences at Cornell University. You can earn a PhD in English and language literature. This English PhD program comes with a generous financial package for students.

Cornell’s PhD in English language and literature allows you to customize your plan of study to suit your interests. You will form a faculty committee that will work with you on selecting your courses and writing and revising your dissertation. You can choose from a myriad of areas such as:

• Romance studies
• Cultural studies

This graduate program also emphasizes teaching an essential part of this plan of study. As a student, you are required to teach writing-intensive courses for at least one year during your time at Cornell. As mentioned, Cornell University provides five years of funding that includes:

• full tuition
• health insurance

Syracuse University

Syracuse, New York

Syracuse University, a highly-ranked private research institution, states that “being orange is more than just a color, a place or degree. It embodies a lifelong connection to a global network of innovators, thinkers, and creative solution finders.” Join the “Orange Community” of 22,000 other students when you earn a top PhD in English from Syracuse University.

Syracuse’s Ph.D. in English includes “specialized professional training in criticism, theory, research, and the teaching of literary and filmic texts”. It prepares you to teach at the college and university level.  You can apply whether you have a BA or master’s degree, and you will take between 12-18 courses, depending on your past academic records.

This PhD program is pretty straightforward. You will take courses like:

• Introduction to Critical Theory
• focused graduate seminars
• a foreign language

You will also take two exams: the field exam and the qualifying exam. This will qualify you as a doctoral candidate to begin:

• researching
• defending your dissertation

Syracuse boasts an excellent job placement record for PhD in English graduates.

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri

Washington University was founded in 1853 in St. Luis. WashUis an independent university with more than 16,000 students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. It offers many opportunities, including:

• customizable programs
• study abroad experiences
• impressive financial aid options

You won’t want to miss the PhD in English and American literature from the College of Arts and Sciences.

Washington University’s PhD in English and American literature is described as “innovative, collegial, competitive, and generously funded, offering one of the top financial packages in the nation”. The program is rooted in literary history. As a student, you can tailor your plan of study to incorporate areas of English that you want to explore.

During your time at WashU, you will serve as both a graduate assistant and instructor in undergraduate English and literature courses. During year four, you will submit a dissertation prospectus. The next two years you will spend working on your dissertation. By April of year six, you will be ready to defend your dissertation and become a Doctor of English!

Northwestern University

Evanston, Illinois

Ranked #9 in the U.S. News & World Report 2020 Best Colleges, Northwestern University is a comprehensive research university. It has more than 13,000 graduate students and an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1. Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences at Northwestern University features a PhD in literature that emphasizes:

• literary history
• criticism, and theory
• interdisciplinary studies

This best English graduate program includes:

• lectures and workshops from global scholars
• student-organized colloquia
• reading groups, conferences
• many ways to learn from not only the faculty, but from peers

You will complete 20 graduate-level courses in diverse historical periods during your first three years. In addition, you will complete a foreign language requirement by the end of year one.

At Northwestern, you will:

• work as a graduate assistant
• teach at least one course
• work on your dissertation during years four and five

While this PhD program can be completed in five years, most students complete it in six. As a graduate student at Northwestern, you will receive:

• full financial aid
• travel grants
• pedagogical training
• job placement

University of Miami

Coral Gables, Florida

Established in 1925, the University of Miami is a private research academic institution with numerous national recognitions in academic and research success. Check out UM’s Pride Points and what it means to be part of the Hurricane family. While you’re at it, check out the PhD in English with concentrations in Caribbean studies or early modern literature. This is a degree full of diversity and opportunity.

UM’s PhD in English is nationally ranked by the National Research Council for student and faculty diversity. As a student at UM, you will enjoy diverse topics such as:

• Caribbean literature
• early modern literature
• cultural theory

The cohorts are only five to seven students, so you will be among a tight-knit community of English scholars.

UM admits incoming students with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in English, and your previous degree(s) will determine whether you need to take 54 or 36 credits of coursework. You will also receive:

• at least five years of tuition remissions

UM reports that over 90% of its PhD graduates have full-time employment within nine months of graduating.

University of Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

The University of Chicago, a highly-ranked private research university, is known for its value of free and open inquiry. This has led to research breakthroughs such as:

• finding the cancer-genetics link
• discovering revolutionary economics links
• improving the graduation rates in urban cities

UChicago’s PhD in English language and literature involves intensive research for solutions, and open expression, staying true to UChicago’s values.

The University of Chicago’s PhD in English language and literature “prepares students for independent work as teachers, scholars, and critics by developing their abilities to pose and investigate problems in the advanced study of literature in English.” The four major elements of this program include:

• the dissertation.

Part of the appeal of this program are the dynamic courses like:

• The Print Revolution and New Readers: Women, Workers, Children
• Early Science Fiction
• Readings in Exile
• scanned transcripts
• 3-4 recommendation letters
• a 15-20 page writing sample
• a 1-3 page statement of purpose

Boston College

Newton, Massachusetts

“Education with a heart and soul – and the power to transform” is Boston College’s motto. Boston College is the first higher education institution in Boston. This private Jesuit research university is among one of the nation’s leaders. Boston College’s PhD in English gives graduate students the choice of a wide range of courses to tailor the program to their interests and career goals.

As a student, you are required to take just four PhD seminars along with courses in composition theory and pedagogy and research colloquium. The rest is up to you, and you will work with your advisor to build your program. Teaching is another component and starting with your second year, you will become a teaching assistant in a British or American literature class.

We’ll be honest: the very thing that we love about this program—the small classes—means that each year Boston College only admits 4-5 students. Applications for the fall semester are due by January 2. To apply you need:

• a critical writing statement

The Catholic University of America

Washington, D.C.

Right in the heart of our nation’s capital, you will find the Catholic University of America. It is the only national research academic institution found by the U.S. bishops. CatholicU is a great place to earn a  PhD in English language and literature offering:

• more than 250 academic programs
• 5,700 students
• 90,000+ alumni

And who wouldn’t want to study literature in Washington D.C.?

CatholicU’s English language and literature program includes 54 credit of coursework, a comprehensive exam, and a dissertation. The comprehensive exam consists of three parts:

• literary theory
• the history of criticism

After you pass the exam, you will begin your dissertation, described by CatholicU as “a substantial piece of original research,” which “gives the doctoral program its capstone.”

CatholicU’s location allows you to become fully immersed in literary history since you are among some of the most reputable museums, research collections, and libraries. Classes are small, so you will get personalized attention, including pedagogical training. CatholicU offers funding for this English language and literature PhD program for up to seven years.

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, Indiana

Notre Dame’s College of Arts and Letters features a “flexible and dynamic” PhD in English that entails 42 credits of literary criticism courses, preparing you for:

• individualized reading courses
• independent study

Your written and oral exams in the third year will assess your knowledge and skills in your specialization, a secondary field, literary theory, and methodology.

You will then focus on researching for your dissertation, which you will defend in year five or six. 

Notre Dame also offers a 5+1 program that gives job incentives for students finishing this program in five years.

Frequently Asked Questions

PhD graduates can find rewarding careers in academia, journalism, media, and other communication fields. You can also become a content strategist or explore writing opportunities. Your expertise in language and literature opens doors to diverse fields of research and publishing.

Historical trends indicate PhDs in English graduates find jobs in academia, research, publishing, and related fields. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary teachers (which includes university professors) is projected to grow 8% through 2032. This should result in about 118,000 new job openings each year, over the next 10 years.

Pay varies for PhD in English graduates, based on factors such as experience, location, and employment sector. In academia, assistant professors with a PhD in English start with salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,000, while more experienced professors earn higher salaries.

A PhD in English typically takes 5 to 7 years. It involves coursework, comprehensive exams, dissertation research, and writing. Some online PhD programs allow students to finish their degree in less time, but the average is 6 years.

Many PhD programs in English offer financial support to students, which can include tuition waivers, stipends, and teaching or research assistant positions. Students often receive compensation for their teaching or research contributions, helping to offset costs during their doctoral studies. Stipends and compensation for teaching or research assistantships can range from a few thousand dollars to more substantial amounts, depending on the university, location, and program.

Yes, earning a PhD in English grants you the title of “Doctor.” When you successfully complete a doctoral program, including a PhD in English, you’re awarded the academic title of “Doctor of Philosophy.” You can use the prefix “Dr.” before your name in professional and academic contexts.

Yes, it is possible to pursue a PhD in English without a master’s degree. Some doctoral programs accept students with a bachelor’s degree directly into their PhD programs, providing specific academic and admission requirements are met.

School of Electrical and Computer Engineering

College of engineering, ece ranked among best graduate programs in the u.s..

Georgia Tech School of Electrical and Computer Engineering graduate programs are among the best in United States, according to the 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate Programs lists.

Electrical engineering came in at No. 4 , and is second among public schools, behind only University of California- Berkley.

Computer engineering tied for No. 6 with the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor and is third among public universities.

The College of Engineering as whole moved up one in the rankings into a tie for fourth with the California Institute of Technology. That puts it in second among public universities.

“These outstanding rankings reflect the hard work of all our faculty, staff, and students,” ECE Steve W. Chaddick School Chair Arijit Raychowdhury said. “Their research is constantly improving technology and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.”

For the complete rankings, click here.

Related Content

Top 5 Standing Continues for ECE Undergraduate Programs in 2024 U.S. News Rankings

Both electrical engineering (E.E.) and computer engineer (Cmp.E.) remain in the top 5, with E.E. coming in at No. 4 and Cmp.E. at No. 5.

College’s Grad Programs Climb to No. 4 in New U.S. News Rankings

Every engineering graduate degree at Georgia Tech remained in the top 10 nationally in the annual assessment.

College of Engineering

College’s grad programs climb to no. 4 in new u.s. news rankings.

Every engineering graduate degree at Georgia Tech remained in the top 10 nationally in the annual assessment.

For the fourth consecutive year, the College of Engineering moved higher on the widely watched U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate Programs list, landing at No. 4 in the updated rankings released June 18 .

Georgia Tech is tied with the California Institute of Technology in the fourth spot. The College’s new ranking puts it second among public universities.

Among specific disciplines, the H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and Systems Engineering maintained its place as the nation’s No. 1 program for the 34 th year in a row. The Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering rose two spots to No. 2.

Also at No. 2: the biomedical engineering graduate program jointly operated by Georgia Tech and Emory University (the College also features an interdisciplinary bioengineering graduate program). Civil engineering remained at No. 3.

(2nd among public universities)

The 2024 Best Grad Schools rankings mark the 13 th year with every program in the College in the top 10 of their discipline. Most rankings were unchanged from last year’s list.

U.S. News   releases graduate school rankings each spring.   Their evaluation of engineering as a whole is based on a number of factors, including research expenditures and publications, peer and recruiter assessments, and doctoral degrees awarded. Rankings of specific engineering disciplines are based solely on peer assessments by department heads.

In the fall, U.S. News ranked the College’s undergraduate programs the best among public universities and No. 3 overall.

2024 Graduate Rankings

U.S. News & World Report

Related Stories

AE Leaps to No. 2 in the Nation for Graduate Aerospace Programs

The Daniel Guggenheim School remains No. 1 among publicly funded institutions.

Georgia Tech Recognized Among Best CEE Graduate Programs in the Nation

The School of Civil and Environmental Engineering’s graduate programs have been ranked in the top five for the third year in a row.

ChBE 5th in U.S. News Ranking of Grad Programs

The School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering is ranked No. 5 for the third year in a row, as well as No. 2 among public universities.

ECE Ranked Among Best Graduate Programs in the U.S.

Electrical engineering is ranked No. 4, and computer engineering is ranked No. 6, according to the 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate Programs lists.

Woodruff School’s Graduate Programs Ranked Among Nation’s Best

The mechanical engineering program is ranked No. 5, while Georgia Tech’s nuclear engineering program, which is housed in the Woodruff School, is ranked No. 9.

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Johns Hopkins graduate engineering programs again ranked among nation's best

'u.s. news & world report' ranks whiting school no. 14 overall, biomedical engineering no. 1 in the nation.

By Lisa Ercolano

Johns Hopkins University's engineering graduate programs are again ranked among the nation's best, according to U.S. News & World Report 's annual Best Graduate Schools rankings, released today. The Whiting School of Engineering retained its No. 14 spot, tied with UCLA.

Graduate engineering programs are evaluated by U.S. News based on a comprehensive set of factors, including a school's research expenditures, faculty productivity, admissions selectivity, and its reputation among peers and the employers who hire its graduates. Changes to this year's methodology included using bibliometric data, including publications and citations, as new overall ranking indicators.

Specialty rankings are based on reputation as measured by peer evaluations. The biomedical engineering graduate program, which is part of both Johns Hopkins' schools of Engineering and Medicine, retained its No. 1 spot.

Five engineering graduate programs saw their rankings improve this year, and every graduate program is ranked among the top 25 in its category.

Specialty rankings:

• Biomedical Engineering: No. 1
• Chemical Engineering: No. 19 (tied)
• Civil Engineering: No. 23 (tied), up eight spots
• Computer Engineering: No. 15, up three spots
• Computer Science: No. 24 (tied)
• Electrical Engineering: No. 20 (tied), up three spots
• Environmental Engineering: No. 25 (tied)
• Materials Engineering: No. 16 (tied), up four spots
• Mechanical Engineering: No. 13 (tied), up one spot

Portions of the publication's annual rankings of graduate programs were released in April , but rankings for schools of medicine and engineering were delayed; rankings of schools of medicine will be released at a later date.

Posted in University News

Tagged u.s. news and world report , university rankings

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Hopkins grad programs ranked among nation's best

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Headlines News and Media

U.s. news & world report ranks ceat among 2024 best graduate schools.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Media Contact: Kristi Wheeler | Manager, CEAT Marketing and Communications | 405-744-5831 | [email protected]

The College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University has been ranked No. 77 among public institutions and 111 overall in the Best Graduate Schools in Engineering ranking released by U.S. News & World Report on June 18.

“While CEAT continues to ascend, we are proud of the recognition that our faculty and students have earned,” said Dr. Hanchen Huang, CEAT dean.

CEAT’s online graduate programs ranked at No. 10 among public institutions and No. 14 overall.

The Industrial Engineering and Management and Mechanical Engineering programs ranked among the top 50% of public and private institutions. IEM ranked at No. 26 among public institutions and No. 36 overall while ME ranked at No. 48 among public institutions and No. 77 overall.

CEAT’s Electrical Engineering program improved by 20 spots from last year. Additionally, the Biosystems Engineering and Petroleum Engineering programs improved this year, both moving up two spots.

Designed for prospective students looking to advance their education post-college, the Best Graduate Schools rankings evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines, including business, education, engineering, law, medicine and nursing.

“CEAT’s engineering programs prepare students for successful and rewarding careers, helping them provide novel engineering solutions to challenging problems faced in today’s world,” said Dr. Sunderesh Heragu, CEAT associate dean. “The U.S. News rankings affirm the high-quality education students receive at reasonable cost.”

By collecting graduate school data annually, U.S. News is able to present the latest enrollment numbers, job placement rates, faculty statistics and other essential quality indicators that help prospective students make informed decisions.

“Deciding where to attend graduate school can be formidable, considering the wealth of schools with distinctive and quality programs,” said Dr. LaMont Jones, managing editor for Education at U.S. News.

“The Best Graduate Schools rankings and related content empower prospective students to choose the best fit for their educational needs and ultimately achieve career success.”

An advanced degree in engineering can help students improve their proficiency, specialize in fields of interest and take advantage of leadership opportunities that result in higher salaries. To assist students in discovering the programs that may be the best fit for them, U.S. News' Best Engineering Schools rankings compare schools on their research activity, faculty resources, academic achievements of entering students and assessments by other engineering schools and employers. Prospective students can see how CEAT compares to other institutions and how the rankings are calculated on USNews.com . 

U.S. News & World Report Ranks UMass Amherst College of Engineering Among Best Graduate Programs

The UMass Amherst College of Engineering has been ranked No. 48 overall among the 2024/2025 Best Graduate Schools for Engineering by U.S. News & World Report , and No. 27 among public graduate engineering programs. This represents a rise from last year, when the College of Engineering was ranked No. 55 overall and No. 31 among public engineering programs. The college has generally been rising in the rankings over the past several years, up from No. 65 in the 2019 rankings. In addition, the College of Engineering continues to be the No. 1 public engineering program in New England. 

National rankings published for specific subject areas within the College of Engineering include chemical engineering at No. 35; industrial at No. 36; computer at No. 38; materials at No. 40; environmental at No. 41; civil at No. 48; electrical at No. 53; mechanical at No. 56; and biomedical at No. 69.  The published rankings are based on reputational surveys of deans and industry leaders, as well as statistical indicators that assess the strength and quality of a school’s research, students, and faculty, including total number of PhDs granted, research expenditures, average GRE score, percentage of faculty members in the National Academy of Engineering, and more.   

Designed for prospective students looking to advance their education post-college, the Best Graduate Schools rankings evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines. By collecting graduate school data annually, U.S. News & World Report is able to present the latest enrollment numbers, job placement rates, faculty statistics and other essential quality indicators that help prospective students make informed decisions. That said, the U.S. News & World Report highlights the fact that: “A school’s Best Engineering Schools rank should be one consideration and not the lone determinant in where a student applies. The rankings assess academic quality and research success – factors that are universally important to prospective students. But personal considerations involving location, environment, strength of different specialties, and cost after tuition and financial aid are also very important.”

Find out more about how U.S. News ranks its graduate engineering programs here .

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Top 15 Most Popular PhD Degrees in America in 2024

Key Takeaways

• PhDs and doctoral degrees are usually terminal degrees, which is the highest academic degree you can earn in your field.
• More than 50,000 doctoral candidates earn this advanced degree every year, though this number may be declining.
• The most popular doctorate degrees are in high-demand fields with lucrative opportunities like engineering, biology, and computer science.

Doctorate degrees can lead to career advancement, research positions, and a higher average salary. But which are the most popular subjects at the doctorate level?

Many popular advanced degrees can be found in the life sciences, as well as in select social science fields, healthcare industries, and in a wide range of engineering subdisciplines.

In many cases, popular PhDs are also among both the top PhD programs and the highest paying PhDs .

It’s also possible to earn many excellent doctorate degrees entirely online .

Otherwise, read on to find where the most PhD and doctorate degrees are being earned today.

An Overview of PhD Programs Offered

It may be possible to earn a PhD in just about any field.

However, the value of this PhD will depend a great deal on your selected area of study. The PhD is a research intensive degree. And because of this, one of the primary reasons that individuals will pursue their doctoral studies is to contribute to research in their field.

This makes the PhD particularly popular in fields with robust research opportunities and needs. For instance, a doctorate in psychology degree may qualify you to conduct meaningful mental health research.

A computer engineering degree may qualify you to contribute to research teams making strides in artificial intelligence. A PhD in cell biology could put you on the front lines in the battle against a deadly disease.

In some fields, such as clinical psychology, it may be more appropriate to earn an applied doctorate, as opposed to a research based PhD program. And in some fields, such as fine arts or library sciences, a master’s degree may already qualify you for a top salary in your field. Whether or not a PhD is right for you will depend on your intended career path.

That said, PhDs and doctorate degrees are available in the full spectrum of academic disciplines. Many of these doctorate degrees are also available online or in blended formats.

What’s the difference between doctoral degrees and PhDs?

Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The major distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, doctorate degrees may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

How We Ranked Popular Doctorate Degrees

The National Science Foundation (NSF) provided a comprehensive survey of completed doctorate degrees from 2005 to 2015. While the exact year over year figures may fluctuate slightly, the proportion of graduates in each field has remained relatively constant during the period surveyed, as well as to the present day.

The National Science Foundation notes that, in 2020, 55,283 doctoral degrees were awarded throughout the United States. This represents a small decline in doctorate degrees awarded in the previous year–55,614 in 2019.

To find the most popular doctorate degrees in America, we compared NSF survey data with the information provided by governing bodies in particular fields. For example, to find the most current number of psychology doctorates awarded, we compared the NSF survey data to the American Psychological Association data.

The Most Popular PhDs and Doctoral Degrees in the U.S.

The figures provided by the National Science Foundation include both applied doctorate degrees and research based PhDs. This is reflected in the ranking below:

1. Engineering

13,606 Doctoral Engineering Degrees Awarded in 2019

When all subfields are counted together, engineering makes up the single most popular doctorate degree. Engineering is a field that uses science and technology to create and operate machines, structures, infrastructures, and manufacturing processes.

There are many different types of engineering including biomedical engineering, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, communications engineering, and more.

Doctoral level students will typically have some experience in the field. Earning a doctoral level degree in engineering can qualify you to work in a wide range of research and development positions for private firms, think tanks, government agencies, universities, and more.

Students who are interested in earning an engineering doctorate can start with a look at Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees .

2. Education

8,605 Doctoral Education Degrees Awarded in 2019

A doctorate in education could help you build toward a career as a special education policy expert, district administrator, university professor, and much more. The doctorate in education is highly popular because it provides a clear pathway to a wide range of careers in education research and leadership, and because it is extremely versatile.

Education doctorate online programs produce post-secondary educators, private education firm leaders, policy consultants, literacy researchers, and more. Moreover, doctors of education will qualify for today’s most lucrative and important careers in higher education leadership. Upon completion, PhD graduates may pursue careers as college presidents, school superintendents, deans, and more.

Start your search for a PhD in education with a look at the Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students .

3. Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Between 5,328 to 7,885 Doctoral Life Sciences Degrees Awarded in 2019

Biology, biomedical engineering, and related subjects make up a rapidly growing area of innovation. Biology is the study of life and living organisms.

This discipline covers a vast array of topics and specializations, biology students study life at the macroscopic and microscopic level. Those in biomedical specializations will study the intersection between biology, pathology, and healthcare.

The high growth in this particular field makes the doctorate degree highly popular. Whether you want to become a doctor or nurse, a zoologist or ecologist, a botanist or biochemist, an immunologist or virologist, earning a biology or biomedical doctorate can provide a pathway for participation in groundbreaking research.

Students interested in earning their doctorate degree in biology or biomedicine can start with a look at the Best Research Universities for Biology .

4. Psychology

6,915 Doctoral Psychology Degrees Awarded in 2019

Psychology is the study of the mind. Earning a doctorate in psychology will provide you the opportunity to conduct research in key areas like human development, cognition, and behavior. Those earning an applied psychology doctorate will practice clinical skills like counseling, behavioral therapy, and therapeutic treatment for mental health disorders.

For many working professionals in the field of psychology, a doctorate degree is a required credential. For instance, students who plan to ultimately become practicing clinical psychologists will be required to earn their doctorate degree in psychology from a program that is accredited by The APA Commission on Accreditation, and subsequently qualify for and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

5. Health Sciences

3,710 Health-Related Doctoral Degrees Awarded in 2019

Medicine is a huge field without countless areas of specialization. If you’re interested in the human body, studying how it works, and using that understanding to relieve suffering, pain, and sickness, medicine is a great path of study.

You don’t need to become a medical doctor in order to earn a doctorate degree in the health sciences. Health sciences can include doctoral level study in a wide range of areas including physical therapy, public health, occupational therapy, and much more.

Doctorate degrees in health sciences are both popular and varied. Additional specializations can include important areas like immunology, virology, environmental health, and much more.

Among the more popular health sciences degrees, consider our look at the Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

6. Social Sciences

3,705 Doctoral Social Science Degrees Awarded in 2019

The Social Sciences is a broad educational category that encompasses various disciplines and subdisciplines including psychology, sociology, economics, political science, anthropology, and more. For the purposes of this ranking, we excluded psychology doctorates in the figure above.

Most consequently among the social sciences are fields like Criminology and Criminal Justice; Public Policy and Urban Studies; Gender and Women’s Studies; Health Policy Analysis; Linguistics; and more.

This is a field in which a doctorate degree can be particularly valuable. There is a great deal of emphasis on field research, statistical analysis, and policy development in the social sciences. Students who earn their doctorate degrees have a chance to lead research and influence positive change in numerous settings.

Students who are interested in applying this knowledge in the legal sector can start with a look at The Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) Ranked in 2023 .

7. Humanities

3,476 Doctoral Degrees Awarded in Humanities Fields in 2019

Humanities is actually a category of disciplines, rather than a single discipline itself. Humanities includes a number of key branches English, Economics, and History. However, each of these humanities subjects is fairly popular on its own. This section refers to the sum of doctoral candidates pursuing humanities degrees in a wide range of other subjects.

The figure here from the National Science Foundation refers to the number of doctoral students pursuing advanced degrees in subjects like Philosophy, Religious Studies, Music, Art History, Archeology, and more.

8. Business Management and Business Administration

More than 3,000 Doctoral Business Degrees Awarded in 2019

While the MBA is the single most popular advanced degree available, the doctorate in business administration is reserved for those with a direct interest in the theories and research behind certain business practices. In most cases, the DBA program is perceived as an academic “capstone” that signifies their accomplishment of real-life, practical experience.

In this regard, a DBA can carry a certain level of prestige that may qualify you for highly competitive leadership opportunities.

To get started, check out our look at the Best Online DBA Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs .

9. Chemistry

2,720 Doctoral Chemistry Degrees Awarded in 2019

Chemistry is a life sciences subdiscipline and is the study of the fundamental materials and processes that make up the universe and everything within it. Those who earn doctorate degrees in chemistry will have the opportunity to apply their advanced knowledge and credentials in a wide range of laboratory and field settings.

Doctors of chemistry will qualify to conduct research, provide post-secondary education, or serve in organizational leadership roles in an array of fields including engineering, medical science, pharmacology, environmental science, food science, and forensics, just to name a few.

10. Computer and Information Sciences

2,883 Doctoral Computer Science Degrees Awarded in 2019

Computer and information sciences doctorate degrees are popular for good reason. This field is a frontier brimming with innovations. This means that doctoral graduates have an opportunity to participate in fast-paced research and development projects and serve in leadership roles at bleeding edge companies.

Earning a PhD in computer science can lead to many high-paying opportunities for private research firms, government agencies, universities, and much more.

Start your search with a look at the Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2023 .

11. Physics

1,859 Doctoral Physics Degrees Awarded in 2019

Physics is a notoriously challenging field that incorporates branches like quantum physics, mathematical physics, biophysics, astrophysics, and much more. Therefore, those who pursue doctoral degrees in physics will work in a wide range of settings. Graduates with a doctorate degree in physics may work in laboratories, conducting field research, or leading research teams for government agencies.

Because physics is the study of matter, energy and the properties comprising the physical world around us, physicists may work in a wide range of areas including geological survey, space exploration, environmental sustainability and more.

12. Economics

1,381 Doctoral Economics Degrees Awarded in 2019

Economics is the most popular humanities discipline among doctorate degree candidates. It is also among the highest paying PhDs that you can earn.

Economics is the study of production, consumption, and the transfer of wealth. These are concepts that apply to virtually every area of labor and commerce, which means that your economics doctorate could qualify you for research and consultation opportunities in various settings. Your knowledge of financial systems, market behavior, and global economics could provide inroads into banking and finance, healthcare systems, government research, and a host of other high-paying career prospects.

13. Mathematics and Statistics

1,163 Doctoral Mathematics Degrees Awarded in 2019

Mathematics is the study of numbers, shapes, quantities, and patterns. Math students explore the relationships, rules, and formulas that govern the behavior of numbers and which, consequently, shape the world around us. Earning a doctoral degree in mathematics or statistics will enable you to apply these studies in a research, development or postsecondary education.

Your expertise could apply in a wide range of settings from sociological research and policy development to engineering innovations and technology implementation. Indeed, mathematics principles can be used to improve our comprehension of everything from the economy, public health, and resource distribution to weather, construction, and supply chain management. As a graduate with a doctorate in mathematics, you may be in a position to provide both leadership and education in virtually limitless private, public, and government-funded settings.

14. English (Letters)

1,023 Doctoral English Degrees Awarded in 2019

The National Science Foundation uses the category of “Letters” to account for a wide range of disciplines centering around the use of both the written and spoken world. This includes disciplines and subdisciplines such as English, Literature, Creative Writing, Speech, and more.

These are popular areas of doctoral study for those in the fields of language and literacy education, individuals pursuing leadership roles in the publishing sector, and for those interested in conducting research in areas like speech pathology. This is also a popular area of advanced study for post-secondary literature and composition professors.

Those interested in the field can get started with a look at the Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) .

15. History

977 Doctoral History Degrees Awarded in 2019

History is an interdisciplinary field that brings together various areas of academic inquiry such as literature, archeology, political science, and philosophy to provide a better understanding of how the events in our past have shaped present-day realities.

History serves as a pathway into understanding the evolution of scientific inquiry, the emergence of important philosophical movements, breakthroughs in civic governance and so much more. This means a doctorate in history can lead to a wide range of careers in education, law, civics, public service, and much more.

In history, a PhD is considered a terminal degree and can lead to opportunities for professional historical research, consultation for government agencies, professorship in a university history department, and more.

Get started today with a look at the Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2023 .

More About Doctorate Degrees and PhD Programs

If you are a prospective doctoral students, you may have many questions.

Below you will find a summary of the most important aspects of doctorate degree programs. That is, admission requirements, typical curriculum, and other program requirements.

Admission Requirements

Every doctorate program has its own admission requirements. However, most doctorate programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:

• A completed online application
• Official undergraduate college transcripts
• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interviews
• Personal statement or essay
• Plan of study

Key Point: In most cases, you’ll be eligible to enter a doctoral degree after earning a bachelor’s degree. However, some specialized doctoral degrees and PhD programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses

Most PhD programs will require students to participate in extensive research and complete a dissertation. Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is three to six years.

The typical components of your PhD degree program may include:

Foundational Courses

While some foundational doctorate courses may be focused on your specific discipline or area of study, most courses will focus on research methods and experimental design. You may be able to complete many of these requirements through online classes.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

In most cases, the central component of your PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After gaining status as a PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original research question. This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some Ph.D programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teacher’s assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in online doctorate degrees programs to also serve teaching requirements by instructing online students.

Key Point: The PhD is a research-focused degree. The dissertation is a central part of many doctoral programs.

Careers for Doctoral and PhD Graduates

Students who complete doctoral programs are generally eligible for top positions and opportunities in their field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that, in 2021, working professionals with a PhD earned more per week than Americans in every other educational demographic.

According to the BLS, the median weekly earning for graduate students with doctorate degrees was $1909. By contrast, those with master’s degrees earned a weekly median of $1574, while bachelor’s degree holders earned a median of $1334.

Career options for those with doctorate degrees include.

• Theoretical Research
• Scientific Research
• Post-Secondary Education
• Public Policy Consultation
• Clinical Practice
• Organizational Leadership

Key Point: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students with a doctorate will earn more than graduates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees.