Graduate Program
FAQ
Can you send me printed material on your program?
All of the material on our program is contained on our website. We no longer print brochures on the program. If you have additional questions about the program, we're happy to answer them through email and on the phone. Please contact the department at srusnak@uchicago.edu or 773-702-1255.
What is the minimum GRE score?
There is no minimum score to apply to the program. Scores and averages vary each year based on the quality of the applicant pool. The verbal score is the primary score considered in our application proceedure.
I haven't attained the minimum TOEFL score, can I still apply?
The U.S. government will not grant visas to students who do not meet the minimum TOEFL requirement. The University will not admit students with scores lower than what is required for a visa.
What is your language requirement for entering students?
Although there is no formal requirement for entering students, accepted applicants have a strong background in at least one East Asian language. While students may spend some time perfecting their language skills during the first two years of coursework, students will be expected to conduct research using sources in the original language of their primary field.
I've looked through your webpages and it doesn't look like you have faculty in my area. Can I study economics/history/ etc.?
All of our faculty are listed. We are primarily a literature and language department with cross-disciplinary interests in art history, history, cinema, cultural and religious studies. Attaining a match with faculty interest is crucial in your ability to complete a PhD. Students with interest in business or economics should consider applying to programs in their respective field. Students with cross-disciplinary interests should consider the methodology they plan to follow in their research when choosing departments for applications.
What is your average time to degree?
Our students average 9 years from entry to completion of their degree. This varies widely based on the experience and and research plans of the candidate. Prospective students should assume a minimum of 6-7 years to complete their degree.
I applied last year, can I reactiveate my application?
Yes, candidates can reactive applications. For more information please see Humanities Admissions.
Do you offer an M.A.?
The department does not have a terminal Master's degree program. Although the department does offer M.A.s, they are in conjunction with the pursuit of a Ph.D. degree. Students interested in a terminal M.A. degree should contact the University of Chicago Master of Arts Program in the Humanities or the Master of Arts Program in Social Sciences .
