Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Ph.D. program accept students who do not have a master's degree?

A master's degree is not required. Students entering the program with no previous graduate work must take 14 courses and the Dissertation Seminars I & II (44 credits).

If I do have a master's degree, will I receive credit for my past work?

Yes, students entering the Ph.D. program with a master's degree must take at least ten courses (30 credits). How much credit is given for past work will depend on whether that work fulfills any of the requirements for the Ph.D.

What about fellowships and financial aid?

We are usually able to provide financial support to our doctoral candidates for a period of four or five years, although the department's initial commitment typically is only for two years, with additional years of funding contingent on the student's performance. Our regular grants carry a stipend and full tuition remission. In return, we require 12–20 hours per week of research assistance to members of the faculty or teaching assistance in undergraduate courses. We do, however, encourage applicants to explore other funding opportunities, which may be able to offer more generous packages.

How can I apply to both the Ph.D. and the M.A. Program? Are rejected Ph.D. applicants automatically considered for the M.A.?

Students who apply to the Ph.D. program who do not already have an MA are automatically considered for the M.A. program as well.

Does the Ph.D. program accept M.A. candidates from Boston College itself, and are they given any special preference?

We of course welcome MA applicants from our own program, and several have enrolled in recent years. However, all applicants are placed in the same pool for admissions purposes.

What kinds of foreign-language preparation are necessary for admission?

None is required, although all Ph.D. students must demonstrate proficiency in one foreign language before taking the Comprehensive Examination.

Does your program have a "minimum"-level requirement for GRE scores upon application to the Ph.D. program?

Yes.  Submission of GRE scores are required.

What is a good form for the writing sample?

We recommend a scholarly paper between 10-25 pages.

When are admissions decisions made?

The deadline for Ph.D. applications is January 2. The deadline for M.A. Applications is February 1. Decisions are usually made by mid-March.

How many students does the Ph.D. program admit?

In a typical year, five students will enter the Ph.D. program.

How many students does the M.A. program admit?

There is no pre-set limit on the number of students who will be admitted to the M.A. program.

When is your application deadline, and how do I apply?

The application deadline for the Ph.D. Program is January 2. The application deadline for the M.A. program is February 1. The application form is available online.

If I have further questions, who can answer them?

For more information about the Ph.D. program contact Professor Nasser Behnegar, Director of the Ph.D. program.

For more information about the M.A. program contact Professor Nasser Behnegar, Director of the M.A. program.