The PhD in English Literature trains students to become independent scholars, teachers, critics and thinkers in the arena of literature and, more broadly, the arts. During the programme, students do coursework, embark on a Qualifying Exam and write an 80,000 word thesis.

For the PhD, the maximum duration for both full-time and part-time study is 60 months. Those awarded an NUS scholarship are required to reside in Singapore for the duration of the scholarship award. Foreign students on a student pass must pursue their studies on a full-time basis.

To obtain the degree of PhD in English Literature, candidates will be required to:

1. pass six courses, at least three of which must be at level 6000
   In English Literature, there are two compulsory courses: EN6770 (Graduate Research Seminar) and EN6102 (Advanced Critical Reading)
2. obtain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 for all examinable modules. In order to continue in the PhD programme, a candidate must not have:
   • a GPA of less than 3.5 for three consecutive semesters; or
   • a GPA below 3.0 for two consecutive semesters.
3. reside in Singapore for a minimum of 18 months of the candidature
4. pass all components of the Qualifying Exam (QE)
5. successfully complete and defend a thesis of not more than 80,000 words.

For details on the components of the Qualifying Exam, thesis writing and PhD process, refer to the Graduate Handbook.