The graduate program in Rhetoric and Composition actively recruits dedicated and energetic students interested in developing the disciplinary knowledge and research tools necessary for making significant contributions both to the construction of new knowledge and to the teaching of writing.  Students who complete our program will be trained as educators and as researchers, and we welcome students who want to join the professorate or who seek employment in industry and the private sector.

Rhetoric and Composition faculty assess an admissions candidate based on GRE scores, letters of recommendation, previous academic work (transcript), a statement of purpose, and one or more writing samples. The writing sample should demonstrate analytical skill and the potential to conduct field-based research, as well as familiarity with other research methodologies. It is important that the statement of purpose should underscore how an admissions candidate’s interests and abilities correspond with the intellectual and professional interests of the Rhetoric and Composition Program.

Applicants are encouraged to correspond with our faculty about the program’s scope and purpose, as well as carefully read all print and web documents pertaining to the program before applying. The deadline for applications for fall admission and fellowship support is February 1st of each year.

Begin admissions process here: LRSP Admissions Guidelines.

For information about the doctoral program in Literacy, Rhetoric, and Social Practice, e-mail the program at LRSP@kent.edu, or contact: