Graduate
The English master’s and doctoral programs offer comprehensive training in critical theory as well as literary and cultural studies, exposing students to a diversity of texts within a global and transnational context. We offer a Master of Arts degree that provides high-level training in literature and culture, preparing students for PhD work or a range of non-academic career possibilities. Our PhD program invites students to construct their own specializations and scholarly discoveries within four core strength areas, under the close mentorship of faculty.
We pride ourselves on being a collaborative and supportive program, with faculty deeply engaged in all areas of graduate academic work, from helping master's students prepare conference papers for presentation and publication to collaborating with doctoral students on syllabi.
Join the Graduate Programs Virtual Open House: October 20–30
Registration is now open for GW's 2025 Columbian College of Arts and Sciences (CCAS) Graduate Programs Open House! The virtual event features program-specific information sessions and opportunities to interact with current graduate students, faculty and our admissions team.
The English Department will host a virtual information session for prospective graduate students on Thursday, October 23 at 11 a.m. EDT. Attendees will receive an application fee waiver.
Programs of Study
PhD in English
Photo credit: Leah Newsom (ASU)
English Graduate Student Association
The English Graduate Student Association (EGSA) is both a professional and a social organization of graduate students in or affiliated with the GW English department. EGSA represents graduate interests on department faculty committees and, more generally, provides graduate students with a collective voice in departmental affairs. EGSA also sponsors various social activities that foster a sense of community for its members and that provide newer students with access to other students further along in the program who can serve as mentors. For more information, please email the 2025–2026 EGSA president, Nayoung Bishoff.
More GW Graduate Student Resources