An emphasis in Critical Theory, under the supervision of the Director of Critical Theory and the Critical Theory Advisory Committee, is available for doctoral students in all departments at UCI. Ph.D. students may complete the emphasis in addition to the degree requirements of their graduate program. Critical theory at UCI is understood in the broad sense as the study of the assumptions, problems, and commitments of the various discourses in the humanities. The faculty regards critical theory as a key element of the study of any humanistic discipline.
Joining Us
If you are interested in joining the Emphasis and/or you are currently working toward its completion, please message your interest to criticaltheory@uci.edu to join our mailing list. By joining our list, you will also be informed of Critical Theory events and opportunities.
Emphasis Requirements
Coursework
HUMAN 260ABC: The Critical Theory Workshop is conceived as a reading group, and developed with the input of all participants, where significant texts are discussed and analyzed in class, with no term papers or letter grades (except for an S or a U). The Critical Theory Workshop runs each quarter of the school year (Fall, Winter, and Spring) - students are required to enroll in all three quarters for official credit. Students will receive 4 units of credit for this course by the end of Spring quarter. For the first two quarters, the course will be zero units and will receive an IP grade.
HUMAN 270: Critical Theory Emphasis cross-lists with courses in a variety of different departments each semester. Three of these cross-listed HUM270 courses are required.
Mini-Seminars
Participation in two mini-seminars (6-8 hours) offered by visiting scholars (and sponsored by the Core Committee) on the visiting scholars' ongoing research.
Written Work
It is expected that the dissertation will reflect the preparation in Critical Theory. Alternatively, a research paper written under the guidance of one or more of the Emphasis affiliated faculty can be submitted.
Completion of the Emphasis
Students who satisfactorily complete the Emphasis will receive a letter signed by the Director or Chair of Critical Theory testifying they have completed the Emphasis.
To certify your completion of the Emphasis, please click here to complete the Emphasis Checklist Form. In addition, please submit a statement and a letter of recommendation from any UCI faculty. Completion applications are accepted on a rolling basis.