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.
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.
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:
Reflecting on these factors helps ensure that your doctoral journey is both meaningful and manageable, aligning with your personal and professional goals.
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
The Cons
When considering a Ph.D. in the humanities, students often compare tenure-track vs. non-tenure-track options, each with unique benefits and challenges.
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:
While competitive, tenure-track positions allow you to remain deeply engaged with scholarship and academic communities.
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:
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?
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.