Combined Ph.D. Program in English and Comparative Literature
This course of study requires the same breadth and depth of training in English that is required for the doctorate in the English Department. However, students who pursue the combined degree with Comparative Literature also achieve advanced knowledge of other literatures. This breadth enhances the sophistication of their scholarly explorations and distinguishes candidates as they enter the job market.
Language Requirements
Reading knowledge of two languages other than the major language.
Teaching
Normally, Ph.D. candidates in the combined programs teach three or six units in Comparative Literature, and as many units in the major language as are normally required for a Ph.D. in that literature. In order to be qualified to receive funding as a Teaching Assistant in a language department, students will be required to take the relevant course in language pedagogy. Courses taught in Comparative Literature will be supervised by the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Study Abroad
Students are encouraged to spend time abroad either for language study or research or both. Extended periods of study may be supported from by University grants or by funds from external sources, such as Fulbright fellowships and grants from the US and other governments. Through its faculty and graduate programs, Washington University has a wide range of connections in universities, research institutes, and libraries abroad who can assist our students in locating archival and other materials, as well as scholars who can offer guidance in their research.
Course Work
All courses must be at the 400 level or above. Students will take courses in two literatures and Comparative Literature, in accordance with this general outline:
- 48 units in English, including the Introduction to Graduate Studies and the distribution requirements for the Ph.D. in English. A minimum of 24 units will be taken at Washington University, and the rest may be transferred from an M.A. program elsewhere.
- 12 units in Comparative Literature seminars or core courses, including Comparative Literature 402 (the Comparative Literature Methodology course).
- 12 units in literature courses in one or more languages other than the major literature. This requirement may take one of two forms: either 12 units in the literature of one language other than English, and a reading knowledge of one additional language; or 12 units comprised of a combination of literature courses in languages other than English (e.g., 6 units in French and 6 units in Spanish) at the 400 level or above.