Interdisciplinary Ph.D.

Coursework in the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program is divided between a primary discipline and a co-discipline. After completing coursework, you will take comprehensive examinations in both disciplines, then begin work on a dissertation.

These are common co-disciplines for the Interdisciplinary Ph.D.

  • Art history
  • Curriculum and instruction
  • History
  • Humanities consortium

Before you apply to the program, review the faculty directory to identify faculty members who conduct research in your area of interest and who may be willing to serve on your dissertation committee.

Minimum Interdisciplinary Ph.D. requirements

Requirements for English

Learn more about the I.Ph.D.

Application Requirements

  • An M.A. in English or the equivalent coursework

Deadline

  • Fall semester - January 15

Prospective students should initiate contact with the department’s discipline coordinator and faculty in November.

Provide this information with your application

  • Academic information, including institutions attended, degrees earned, GPA, foreign language experience, honors and awards and relevant work experience
  • Writing sample that demonstrates your writing abilities in the humanities, in up to 15 pages of recent academic prose
  • Statement of purpose that describes your academic and professional objectives in 500- to 600-word essay, discussing in detail your interest, research and writing in your emphasis area
  • Resume/vita
  • Email addresses for three references who can evaluate your readiness for graduate study
  • GRE score of 60 percent or higher on the verbal aptitude section (code 6872)
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended mailed to UMKC Office of Admissions, 5100 Rockhill Road, 120 Administrative Center, Kansas City, MO 64110
  • Graduate Teaching Assistantship application materials, if applying, including a 250- to 500-word teaching statement addressing your interest in and qualifications for teaching and an academic writing sample from an upper-level college course

Allow enough time for all of the materials to arrive by the deadline. 

Apply now