The University of Illinois based in Chicago, IL offers a fully funded PhD in creative writing. The graduate program in English offers a PhD degree in English with different tracks for English Studies, Creative Writing (known as the Program for Writers), and English Education. The program is specifically designed to encourage innovative work in writing and teaching, leading to careers in academic professions. Accepted doctoral students are normally awarded six years of departmental funding via a teaching assistantship. The Graduate College and the Department both offer a number of fellowships and awards in varying amounts for graduate students.