Committe on Social Thought

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Chicago ✅
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<p>I know this question is more suited for the graduate school forum, but I posted this same thing there already and I thought I would cover all the bases....</p>

<p>I've just discovered a PhD-granting body at the University of Chicago known as the 'Committee on Social Thought' and I was wondering: what are some of the advantages and disadvantages of doing a PhD at an interdisciplinary program like this versus a more traditional history or philosophy PhD elsewhere? And I know UChicago's reputation looms large, but do you think a degree from CST would help with job placement, hinder it, or make no difference? I'm more than willing to consider jobs outside academia, too. I was browsing their placement record and noticed that one of their graduates is a culture critic for the NY Times.</p>

<p>Extra info: I'm double majoring in classics and philosophy and, if I do decide to go into a PhD program, it would probably be in history or religious studies.
I read through their website and the breadth of study definitely appeals to me. I even found a mock exam--- it looked challenging, but fun too. I'm not even close to applying yet, but this looks like a unique opportunity that I'll have to give some serious thought.</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

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<p>I would only consider an interdiciplinary PhD if I knew exactly what I wanted to study. Otherwise it seems like it has the potential to become a 'black hole' experience where there is no exit.</p>

<p>Having said that, I don't know anything about the Chicago program other than they seem to have a particularly distinguished faculty.</p>

<p>Did any of that faculty get an interdiciplinary PhD? When I think of the value of a PhD, it is more a matter of 'depth' rather than 'bredth of study.' Also, I don't think that a PhD is going to be of any use, in and of itself, if you want to do something like become the culture critic for the NYT.</p>

<p>Just my thoughts. For the right person, it might be perfect.</p>

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<p>Social Thought is extraordinarily well regarded in academia, and the professors in Social Thought are among the best. It, and other PhDs--as LAV said, are of little use in the practical world. </p>

<p>This is really something you should be talking about with professors you're close to and people at your career office.</p>