About PhD Program,

We are especially excited about our streamlined PhD program, which allows students to pursue innovative, interdisciplinary work across the humanities. The recently reconfigured German Studies PhD trains students for a variety of 21st-century careers by responding to the transformative role of modern technologies in the production, dissemination, and analysis of language and cultural knowledge. Our PhD program sets itself apart through a combination of innovative technology, media, and digital humanities perspectives and unique learning, teaching, and other pre-professional opportunities. Students may enhance their German Studies degree with Graduate Certificates in Digital Humanities, Museum Studies, or College Foreign Language Teaching.

PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,   

Complete at least 24, but no more than 39 credits in courses approved by the guidance committee, including at least 18 credits in German studies and at least six credits outside of German studies according to the student’s research interests. 2. Students should discuss with their advisors / guidance committees the appropriate methodological training required to complete their dissertation. 3. Demonstrate proficiency in German and English and document proficiency in a third language at a level appropriate to the student’s program of study, as determined by the guidance committee. 4. Pass written and oral doctoral comprehensive examinations. The guidance committee will administer the examinations.

PhD Funding Coverage,

Graduate students in our programs are fully funded for 2 years (MA) or 5 years (PhD). Funding is comprised of a combination of teaching assistantship, research assistantship, and fellowship. The German program is committed to supporting its graduate students financially through the summer months, with a variety of funding sources that include online teaching, study abroad program leadership, and research fellowships. Generous travel funding for conferences, archival work, and other scholarly or professional activities is also available.

All funding packages include a tuition waiver for 9 credits per semester (fall and spring), health insurance, and other benefits. Students are encouraged to participate actively in the professional arena, with generous travel funding to present at scholarly conferences. In the dissertation phase, students are encouraged to apply for external grants to further support their studies (Fulbright, DAAD, etc.).

More information about Teaching Assistantships and graduate student funding can be found on the Departments resources for graduate student page.

Application Requirement,

1. A 500-word statement of purpose and summary of academic background.
2. Three letters of recommendation (submitted through the application portal).
3. A C.V.
4. An official transcript of all academic work on the collegiate level. (The transcripts must be sent in a sealed envelope with the name of the institution on it. The envelope and transcripts are reviewed by the Office of Admissions at MSU.)
5. A portfolio of the applicant’s representative work in German.
6. International applicants must fulfill requirements as outlined on the MSU Graduate School website.

Application Deadline,

Dec 31, 2024

Application Fee,

Graduate Domestic  $65.00

Graduate International  $75.00