In the Division of the Arts and Humanities, admissions for the 2026-2027 academic year are paused in all doctoral programs except for Philosophy and Music Composition and Sound Practices, and in all master's programs except for the Master of Arts Program in the Humanities and the Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts. This is a one-time pause for the 2026-2027 academic year.
If you are a prospective applicant, we encourage you to stay connected with us and to explore other AHD degree programs that may match your graduate education interests. Questions and requests for additional information should be sent to ahd-admissions@uchicago.edu.
Apply to Germanic Studies, Doctor of Philosophy
2 Tracks:
- Entering with an M.A. Degree
- Entering without an M.A. Degree
Key Information:
For students entering with an M.A. Degree
| Time to Degree | 6 years, 7 with approval |
| Course per Quarter | 4-6 courses in year one, 8 courses in years 2-3 |
| Size of Cohort | 1-4 |
| Degree Milestones | Coursework, Ph.D. Exam, Dissertation Defense (see handbook) |
| Teaching Requirement | Teaching in language program (see PTP requirements) |
| Outcomes | Alumni Placements |
Students entering without an M.A. Degree
| Time to Degree | 6 years, 7 with approval |
| Course per Quarter | 8 courses in first year, 4-6 courses in years 2 and 3 |
| Size of Cohort | 1-4 |
| Degree Milestones | Coursework, M.A. Exam, Ph.D. Exam, Dissertation Defense (see handbook) |
| Teaching Requirement | Teaching in language program (see PTP requirements) |
| Outcomes | Alumni Placements |
Apply for Admission:
- Application Requirements
- Application includes a Writing Sample of 15-20 pages in English or German
- Application includes a Writing Sample of 15-20 pages in English or German
- Financial Aid for Prospective Students
- All admitted PhD students are guaranteed to have full funding support from the University and external sources, or a combination of the two for the duration of their program.
- Applicants do not need to apply separately for funding.
- Questions?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Register for an information session or appointment with an admissions representative
- Questions about the application process may be directed to humanitiesadmissions@uchicago.edu or (773) 702-5809
- Students do not need to contact faculty before applying
- Contact Emily Anderson at andersone@uchicago.edu for department specific questions (if applicable)
Additional Resources for Prospective Students: