PhD South Asian Languages and Civilizations at University of Chicago

Programme overview

The Department of South Asian Languages and Civilizations, founded in 1966, takes a humanistic approach to South Asia through close textual analysis and study of cultural forms. Its strength is linguistic study and textual analysis, and it teaches Bangla, Hindi, Marathi, Sanskrit, Tamil, Tibetan and Urdu. Admitted PhD students are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the program.

Faculty: Division of the Arts & Humanities | Department: Department of South Asian Languages and Civilizations | Duration: Expected within 7 years (8th year possible with department approval) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Chicago, IL, United States

What you will study

Years 1-2 are coursework (about three courses per quarter) including language requirements and a qualifying paper each year, with three departmental seminars: South Asia as an Area of Study and two Research Themes seminars. Students reach research-level mastery of one South Asian language, high intermediate proficiency in a second, and reading knowledge of one additional scholarly language, then take two oral exams (typically year 3) and defend a dissertation proposal.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

GRE scores are not required. Transcripts from all previous institutions; at least three letters of recommendation; writing sample of about 20 pages; statement of purpose on intellectual issues and fit with SALC faculty; TOEFL or IELTS (no more than two years old) may be required for applicants whose primary language is not English.

Duration: Expected within 7 years (8th year possible with department approval)

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Arts & Humanities