If you’ve recently completed an undergraduate degree in English, History, Religious Studies, or another humanities field, you might be asking yourself: “Is a Ph.D. in the humanities worth it?” It’s a common question—one that sparks both excitement and skepticism from friends, family, and even yourself.
Some pursue a doctoral degree simply because they love their subject. Others weigh the decision against job prospects, time commitment, and personal goals. The truth is, a humanities Ph.D. can be deeply rewarding—but it requires careful thought.
Key Takeaways:
- A Ph.D. in the humanities is ideal for those passionate about human experience, culture, history, and philosophical concepts.
- Many students pursue a Ph.D. in English, History, or Religious Studies purely out of passion—others are pursuing specific career opportunities or professional growth.
- When exploring humanities career opportunities, there are both tenure-track and non-tenure-track options for humanities Ph.D.s.
- A Ph.D. in the humanities is worth it if it aligns with your personal, professional, and academic goals.
Why Pursue a Doctorate In The Humanities?
Humanities Ph.D. programs offer more than advanced knowledge—they provide the tools to explore culture, literature, art, history, and religion in depth. They attract students who want to understand life’s big questions, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in meaningful research.
If you’re drawn to understanding human experience, a Ph.D. in the humanities can be a transformative step. Beyond academics, it can also strengthen communication, analytical, and writing skills, abilities that are valued across many careers.
Tip: Explore SMU’s Guide to Choosing and Applying to Ph.D. Programs to learn how to select the right program, explore funding options, and succeed in doctoral-level study.
Reflecting on Your Goals and Commitment
Many students pursue a Ph.D. in English, History, or Religious Studies purely out of passion—and that’s perfectly valid. At the same time, it’s important to think realistically about what earning a Ph.D. entails.
Here are some practical considerations to keep in mind:
- Time and energy: A Ph.D. requires several years of dedicated study and research. Make sure the workload fits with your lifestyle and other commitments.
- Financial considerations: Although funding options are available, graduate school often necessitates careful financial planning. Evaluate the costs and potential financial impact.
- Personal motivation: Ask yourself why you want this degree. Are you seeking intellectual fulfillment, a chance to contribute original research, or personal growth? Understanding your “why” will guide your path and help you stay motivated during challenging periods.
Reflecting on these factors helps ensure that your doctoral journey is both meaningful and manageable, aligning with your personal and professional goals.
Pros and Cons of a Ph.D. in the Humanities
Once you’ve considered your personal motivations, it’s helpful to look at the objective benefits and challenges of a humanities Ph.D.
The Pros
- Curriculum emphasizing ethics and critical thinking
- Opportunities to network with like-minded scholars
- Mentorship from expert faculty
- A chance to explore complex questions about humanity
- Skills in persuasive argumentation—helpful in careers like politics or advertising
- Advanced writing and communication skills applicable across industries
The Cons
- Tenure-track academic positions are competitive
- Some career paths outside academia may require extra professional development beyond the degree itself
- Earning a Ph.D. requires significant time, energy, and focus
Humanities Career Opportunities with a Ph.D.
When considering a Ph.D. in the humanities, students often compare tenure-track vs. non-tenure-track options, each with unique benefits and challenges.
Tenure-Track Positions
If your goal is a traditional academic career, tenure-track roles are the most sought-after. These positions offer long-term stability, the chance to teach and mentor students, and opportunities to continue research in your field. To increase your likelihood of securing a tenure-track position, it’s essential to:
- Publish or present research at conferences
- Join professional organizations in your field
- Build strong mentorship relationships with faculty
- Gain teaching experience during your doctoral studies
While competitive, tenure-track positions allow you to remain deeply engaged with scholarship and academic communities.
Non-Tenure-Track Jobs for Humanities Ph.D.s
Not every humanities Ph.D. student wants a position in academia, and that’s perfectly fine. Many graduates successfully apply their skills in non-academic settings, where research, writing, and critical thinking are highly valued. Common non-tenure-track careers include:
- Nonprofit program management or advocacy
- Policy analysis and government research
- Communications, publishing, or marketing
- Museum or cultural institution roles
- Corporate training or consulting
Pursuing a non-tenure-track career is not a failure—humanities Ph.D.s can find rewarding and well-compensated roles outside academia. Your doctoral training can help you adapt quickly and make a meaningful impact in these industries.
Read more: What Can You Do with a Ph.D. in History?
FAQ About Humanities Ph.D.s
Pursue a Doctorate in the Humanities Field at SMU
Is a Ph.D. in humanities worth it? We think so—but only you can decide what’s best for you. Your personal, professional, and academic goals should all be part of your consideration process before you begin researching and applying to Ph.D. programs.
At Southern Methodist University, the Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences offers three humanities degrees worth considering: a Ph.D. in English, a Ph.D. in History, and a Ph.D. in Religious Studies. All three programs help students pursue their passions while developing skills that support a range of meaningful careers—both in and beyond academia.
If a Ph.D. in the humanities sounds worth it for you, we invite you to download our free resource— Reanalyzing Our World: Humanities Ph.D.s at SMU.
