Please specify the two main disciplines that you propose to focus on primarily, assuming you are admitted into the DLS program. In DLS these would be called your two “focus disciplines.” The primary focus discipline must be in the humanities since that is the GLS area in which there is the greatest strength and the greatest number of faculty to teach and advise you. It is recommended that the secondary discipline be in the humanities also, again, because that is the area of the program’s greatest strength. But other disciplines or areas are possible. See below if this option is of interest to you.*
It should be emphasized that focus disciplines can be changed after admission. Your choice for the purposes of application is not necessarily the final word on this. However, given the nature of the program, changes would only be approved after consultation, and only if proper advising and suitable courses in the newly chosen discipline or disciplines could be assured for you.
*In connection with the choice of secondary disciplines, a non-humanities discipline/area is possible, in addition to humanities disciplines, if one has a strong background in that discipline/area. So, for example, a secondary focus discipline in the social sciences or natural sciences, or even in the areas of law, engineering or medicine is possible. To be sure, especially in connection with the last three areas, the program would have to make sure, during the application review process, that it could properly advise a student with a secondary focus discipline in such areas before admission could be granted.
What constitutes a strong background in a discipline or area outside of the humanities, one may ask. Here are some examples. A BA or BS degree with a major in a particular discipline would count as a strong background in an area outside of the humanities -- as would, naturally, a Ph.D. in a given area, or an LL.D. or an M.D. degree. (Check with the GLS Directors if you need further information on this.) If you are proposing such a discipline or area as your secondary focus discipline, click the “Other” box and write in the discipline or area proposed in the space provided.