Literature Graduate Programs
Join our community of scholars, creative writers, and translators who share a commitment to transnational and interdisciplinary approaches to literary study and practice.
PhD in Literature
The PhD in Literature at UT Dallas is designed for students who are passionate about literature and critical theory and want to contribute new knowledge to the field. This program can prepare students for academic careers, where they can teach at the college level and engage in high-level research across a wide range of literary traditions, critical methodologies, and cultural contexts. Students will explore texts from various time periods, genres, and languages, honing their skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and scholarly writing. Additionally, students have the opportunity to focus on creative writing or translation as part of their dissertation work, adding a unique dimension to their research.
The program offers flexibility through coursework in literary studies, as well as seminars in related disciplines like philosophy, film studies, and the visual and performing arts. Students are required to demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language, an essential tool for accessing and analyzing primary sources in different literary traditions. The program includes comprehensive field examinations, after which students begin preparing their dissertation proposal with the support of a supervising committee. This is followed by the completion and defense of their dissertation.
Graduates of the PhD in Literature will be equipped with the expertise needed to conduct independent, original research and to teach at the college level in literary studies. They will emerge with strong skills in critical thinking, analytical writing, and cultural interpretation, guided throughout the process by a faculty with expertise in a broad range of literary and interdisciplinary fields.
| Program Type | Doctorate |
| Format | On campus; full- and part-time options are available |
| Estimated Time to Complete | 5-7 years |
| Semester Credit Hours | 60 |
Dissertation
Students are formally advanced to PhD candidacy when they have successfully completed the doctoral field examinations and received final approval for dissertation topics. Students should submit a preliminary dissertation proposal for consideration during the oral section of the doctoral field examination. After that examination, a four-person supervising committee is formed, normally from the examining committee plus an additional faculty member, to oversee dissertation work. The supervising committee must then approve a formal dissertation proposal before the student submits it to the Graduate Studies Committee for final approval.
Each candidate then writes a doctoral dissertation, which is supervised and defended according to general University regulations.
Fact Sheet
Scholarships & Awards
Master of Arts in Literature
The Master of Arts in Literature at UT Dallas offers a dynamic environment for students interested in deepening their understanding of literature across various traditions, critical approaches, and theoretical debates. This program is ideal for those who wish to further explore literary analysis, enhance their writing skills, and develop an interdisciplinary understanding of literary studies. Students can tailor their studies through creative writing and literary translation workshops, as well as seminars in related fields such as film studies, philosophy, and the visual and performing arts. Whether students aim to teach, write, or pursue advanced research, this program provides a strong foundation for their professional and academic goals.
Students in the MA in Literature can choose between two options: the professional track, which focuses on coursework and does not require a foreign language or portfolio, and the research track, which includes additional requirements such as foreign language proficiency and a portfolio of scholarly or creative work. The research option offers a more in-depth academic experience, preparing students for further graduate study or research-intensive careers. Throughout the program, students engage with texts from various time periods and genres, honing their ability to critically analyze literature and develop their scholarly voice.
Graduates of the MA in Literature will be equipped with advanced skills in literary analysis, writing, and research. They will emerge with the expertise to conduct independent scholarly work and to engage thoughtfully with complex literary and cultural issues. Whether they continue on to a PhD program or enter professional fields like publishing, education, or writing, graduates will possess strong communication and critical thinking skills that are highly valued in a range of careers.
| Program Type | Master’s |
| Format | On campus; full- and part-time options are available |
| Estimated Time to Complete | 2-3 years |
| Semester Credit Hours | 33 |
Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing
The Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing at UT Dallas provides students with a focused opportunity to explore the art and craft of literary creation. Centered on the theory and practice of creative writing, this certificate includes graduate-level workshops that can be taken in a single genre—such as poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction—or across multiple genres.
Designed to complement other graduate studies or professional pursuits, the program offers flexibility and depth. Students engage with experienced faculty and peers in a collaborative environment that fosters creativity and critical reflection. Through workshops and coursework, participants refine their writing skills and develop a portfolio of original work.
This certificate is ideal for writers seeking to enhance their craft, gain structured feedback, or explore new creative pathways. Whether aspiring to publish, teach, or deepen their artistic practice, students will find a supportive and intellectually stimulating space to grow as writers.
Graduate Certificate in Literary Translation
The Graduate Certificate in Literary Translation at UT Dallas offers students the opportunity to delve into the history, theory, and practice of translating literary works. This certificate program emphasizes both the scholarly study and hands-on production of literary translations, providing a solid foundation for those interested in bridging cultures through language.
The curriculum includes two foundational courses in translation theory and workshop practice, one advanced course in translation studies, and a seminar or workshop tailored to the student’s research interests. This structure allows students to engage deeply with translation as both an academic discipline and a creative art form, preparing them to navigate the complexities of language and meaning.
Designed for students with proficiency in English and at least one foreign language, the certificate is ideal for those pursuing careers or research in translation, literature, or related fields. Participants will benefit from the expertise of dedicated faculty and the resources of the Center for Translation Studies, gaining the skills and insight necessary to excel in literary translation.
Research Opportunities
Six centers and institutes affiliated with the Bass School promote interdisciplinary research:
Discover Our Centers, Labs and Studios →
Our graduate students conduct and present research nationally and internationally.
See our graduate student accomplishments.
Faculty Mentors
Our faculty members will help you gain the knowledge, skills and support you need for a rewarding career. Meet our faculty.
Contact Information
Dr. Charles Hatfield
Associate Professor and Program Head
Phone: 972-883-2780
Email: charles.hatfield@utdallas.edu
Kelly Erb
Graduate Academic Advisor
Phone: 972-883-6176
Email: kelly.erb@utdallas.edu
Office: JO 4.508C
Graduate Advising
Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology
The University of Texas at Dallas, JO31
800 W. Campbell Road
Richardson, TX 75080-3021
Phone: 972-883-4706
Email: ahtgradvising@utdallas.edu
Office of Admission and Enrollment
800 W. Campbell Road
Richardson, TX 75080-3021
972-883-2270 or 1-800-889-2443
admission@utdallas.edu
utdallas.edu/enroll