R1 Ranked
NDSU is among the nation’s top research institutions
Top 2%
NDSU researchers are among the top two percent of scientists in the world
96%
Recent graduates employed full-time
Top 100
Public research university in the country with $190 million in research expenditures
Elevate your expertise and transform your career with NDSU’s Doctor of Philosophy in rhetoric, theory and culture — an innovative, interdisciplinary program designed for passionate scholars and professionals. This regionally unique program blends rhetorical, textual and cultural studies, providing you with cutting-edge skills in professional and technical communication. As demand for experts in technical communication continues to outpace supply, NDSU graduates are uniquely positioned for impactful careers.
Explore the Curriculum
- Doctoral On Campus
Capture the Moment at NDSU
Shape Your Future
NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The program provides a well-rounded education with a robust core in theory, methods and pedagogy, as well as opportunities in research.
Real-World Experience
With a focus on experiential learning, you’ll gain six credits of hands-on experience, from teaching discipline-specific writing to interning with nonprofits and local industries.
Meaningful Mentorship
Work one-on-one with faculty who have professional expertise in specialized areas such as pedagogy; writing assessment; writing program administration; curriculum development; technical and professional writing; usability and user experience; medical rhetoric and disability studies; and feminist rhetoric.
Professional Development and Leadership
Broaden your horizons and expand your experience outside of the classroom through student organizations, including the English Graduate Organization, an organization that has the goal of furthering graduate student development and professionalization. Participation in extracurricular activities help build strong connections with peers and allow you to develop leadership skills.
Tuition and Funding
NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To help you cover tuition and expenses, various departments offer graduate assistantships designed to support your academic and professional goals.
Admission Info
At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking to further their education within a supportive, welcoming community.
No matter your academic path, we're committed to making your application process straightforward and stress-free. Find the specific requirements and steps for your graduate application.

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Doctoral, Master’s
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Graduate Certificate
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Master’s
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Master’s
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Graduate Certificate
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Graduate Certificate
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