PhD in Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies

Unlike programs at other universities where these areas have separated, this doctorate keeps rhetoric, writing and literature together because the department sees them as overlapping. Students complete required rhetoric classes, craft a specialty of their own design and select electives for wider knowledge. Doctoral students learn to collaborate and work independently, to lead and supervise others, to carry out and present original research, to integrate technology into teaching and to design and deliver their own courses. Assistantships offer varied duties. Courses are offered on campus, over the internet and in mixed formats to suit students who work, commute or raise children. Most graduates aim to teach at the college level, but the training also fits editing, government and business. The program works with the women's and gender studies program on cross-listed courses. Applications are reviewed for fall, spring and summer entry.