The UCD PhD in Modern Languages is a three to four year research degree primarily involving the writing of a thesis dissertation (approx. 100,000 words, normally in English), which will make an original contribution to knowledge. At UCD, the PhD Modern Languages thesis is undertaken within the framework of a clearly structured PhD programme that includes: advanced taught modules, a Research and Professional Development Plan, thesis chapters drafted/completed, a Research Studies (advisory) Panel, and may include the possibility to develop teaching skills through lecturing or tutoring.
The PhD dissertation comprises original research in the student's choice of research area in Modern Languages, as represented by staff within UCD. Modern Languages research specialisms and interests may be consulted on individual subject contact pages and researhc profiles. These specialisms include, but are not limited to, literature (early modern to contemporary), history of ideas, cultural studies, film studies, literary theory, translation, transnationalism, cultural theory, sociolinguistics and much more. Our language sections work with, and research through, the following world languages and their connected cultures: French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish. Interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary projects are particularly welcome and PhD theses may involve UCD co-supervisors from another UCD School or College.
Everyone has a different reason for embarking on a PhD in Modern Languages. For many, it starts out as a challenge and is sparked by a passion. It is essential to do a PhD on a topic that is of deep interest to you personally, as a human being. Being deeply curious and passionate about your topic will make the four years of serious application fascinating, and you will complete a more successful thesis. During your PhD programme, you will take on board the wisdom and experience of specialists already working in the field. Most PhD students become complete experts in their subject area and maintain this passion throughout their lives, regardless of future occupation. In our School, we also explore professors motivation for and experience of doing their own PhD during our series of Very Short Talks, in which staff share their own PhD trajectory with current students. Every story, everyone's motivation, and every thesis is entirely unique.
