The formal requirement for an application is a university degree (M.A. or equivalent; the degree must have been obtained before the application deadline) with above average marks in either North American Studies or one of the disciplines represented at the John F. Kennedy Institute (Cultural Studies, Literature, Political Science, History, Sociology, and Economics) or closely related academic programs. The discipline of the intended dissertation must correspond to the discipline of the M.A. degree, or at least be closely related to it. The dissertation project must be related to North American and/or American/Canadian Studies. Further information can be obtained at the Graduate School of North American Studies.

Since all instruction is in English, enrollment in the program requires English language proficiency at an advanced level.

The Graduate School is highly interested in international representation and encourages applications by doctoral candidates outside of Germany. Members of groups historically underrepresented in German higher education are particularly encouraged to apply.

Applications for the doctoral program are also possible if you have your own scholarship/funding. Please tick "without GSNAS scholarship" on our online application form. (The application cycle for the study period 2022 - 2025 is now closed. Applications will reopen in October 2022 for the period 2023 - 2026.)