Ancient History, PhD
The Graduate Group in Ancient History is an interdisciplinary, cross-departmental program that encompasses the study of the ancient history of the Near East and the Mediterranean Basin, from the origins of civilization in the fertile river basins of the Tigris and the Euphrates to the rise of Islam and the emergence of the so-called barbarian successor kingdoms.
The expertise and interests of members of the group are diverse and heterogeneous. What unites us is the enterprise of building historical narratives from the fragmentary and diffuse textual and material evidence available to us. Students admitted to the Graduate Group in Ancient History will receive training in the political, intellectual, cultural, socio-economic, and religious history of at least two discrete ancient societies as part of their preparation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
In addition to course work, candidates are expect to participate in seminars, act as Teaching Assistants and/or teach their own classes. In order to progress to dissertation stage, students must, in addition to passing their 20 courses, fulfil the following examination requirements; Modern Languages Examination, Qualifying Examination & the Preliminary Examination. Following completion of three years of coursework and all examinations, a student will be advanced to dissertation stage.
For more information: https://www.sas.upenn.edu/ancient-history/program/course-study
View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Sample Plan of Study
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Select four courses | ||
| Spring | ||
| Select four courses | ||
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Select three courses | ||
| Teach one course | ||
| Qualifying Examination | ||
| Spring | ||
| Select three courses | ||
| Teach one course | ||
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Select three courses | ||
| Teach one course | ||
| Spring | ||
| Select three courses | ||
| Teach one course | ||
| Dissertation Proposal | ||
| Preliminary Examination | ||
| Modern Languages Examinations | ||
| Year 4 | ||
| Dissertation research | ||
| Year 5 | ||
| Dissertation research and defense | ||
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.