Joint Degree

Social Thought students may choose to pursue a Joint Degree with other departments at the
University in either the Social Sciences or the Humanities. Choices over the last five years have
included Philosophy, Classics, Comparative Literature, Germanic Studies, History, and English.
Social Thought students wishing to pursue a joint degree should contact the relevant program
directly. They should also notify the Social Thought Director of Graduate Studies of their
intentions. The joint degree petition requires approval from the chair of both the new program
and Social Thought, the Dean of Students in both divisions, and the Provost if it is not an
established joint PhD program. Please note that the review process varies and specific
questions should be directed to relevant departments.

To be considered for a joint degree, students must submit the following materials:

• Statement of Purpose that explains:
  • the rationale behind doing a joint degree
  • a plan of study/degree completion timeline that indicates how the student will complete all requirements for both degrees, and the schedule for doing so
  • the number of Mentored Teaching Experiences (MTEs) required, and how they will be fulfilled. A registration time limit is also required information, as some degree programs permit students to remain registered longer than others.
• CV
• Letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the student’s home department 
• Letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the proposed joint department

This information should be submitted to the Dean of Students in the receiving Division. Once all
items are received, they will be circulated for all additional required approvals.