The graduate program fosters students critical thinking, intellectual engagement (with a range of competing ideas, concepts, and approaches), and comprehensive knowledge either in the area of literary and cultural studies or in German second language teaching and learning (G/SLA). The Department defines comprehensive knowledge as the ability to make connections between texts and ideas across historical periods and theoretical approaches at a high conceptual level. Our commitment to individual mentoring and to generous year-round support makes completion of the PhD in five years not only highly desirable but also financially and academically feasible. Other program features include: attention to non-native speakers in attaining high levels of ability in German, graduate exchanges with the Universities of Trier and Dresden, and generous assistance for students in presenting work at conferences.