Graduate Program in English FAQs

What have former graduates done with their Master of Arts in English degree?

Some of our students have used the M.A. as preparation for Ph.D. studies; some have used it to enhance their expertise and their credentials as K-12 language arts professionals; some have used it to enrich their work lives in editing, publishing, and communications; and still others have found in the program the simple joys of reading, discussing, and writing about literature in a challenging but supportive intellectual community.

Where have your M.A. students gone to work on their Ph.D.?

We've had our graduates go on to do successful doctorate work at the University of New Mexico, SUNY Buffalo, SUNY Stony Brook, the University of Tulsa, the University of South Dakota, the University of North Dakota, George Mason University, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, St. Louis University, and even the National University of Ireland, Galway.

How many students are typically in a class?

All of our courses are capped at 12-15 students, allowing for close interaction between the students and the faculty member.

Do you offer evening classes?

Yes! Because the majority of our students work or have family responsibilities during the day, all of our Fall and Spring semester graduate courses are offered in the evening once a week from 6 - 9 pm. Our summer term, which runs from mid-June through mid-August, offers classes on Mondays and Thursdays in the late afternoon or early evening in two hour time blocks.

What is your student body like?

Some of our students have just finished their undergraduate work while others have been out of college for several years. We've discovered that the diverse age range of our students allows for a wide variety of unique perspectives within the classroom.

Do you require the GRE General Test or the GRE Literature in English Subject exam?

No. In the early years of the program, we did require applicants to take the General Test. However, because we learned that an applicant's test score did not necessarily correlate with their success in our courses, that requirement was eventually dropped.

Do you offer fellowships or other financial support?

Yes! Please check out our Financial Support web page for the variety of options that are available.

Is it possible to do an independent study with a faculty member?

Yes! Students are allowed to do up to two independent studies (GENG 698) in the program, provided an instructor who specializes in that area is available. Please note, however, that an independent study does not count as one of the two 600 level courses required in the program.