Graduate Program Requirements

The program requires ten three-credit courses. Two of these courses must be taken at the 600 level (exclusive of GENG 698 Independent Study and GENG 699 Master's Essay).

Two required courses:

• GENG 513: Issues in Criticism
• GENG 699: Master's Essay

Three distribution requirements:

• One course in pre-1800 British literature
• One course in pre-1900 American literature
• One course in multicultural literature

The remaining courses are electives. A maximum of two courses not offered directly through the Master of Arts in English program may be counted toward the degree, with the approval of the program director.

Master's Essay (GENG 699)

The capstone of the Master of Arts in English degree is the master's essay course. Rather than a thesis or dissertation, the essay provides an opportunity for lengthy reflection about selected works or authors. The purpose is to give students a final opportunity to develop an area of expertise while they refine their writing, revising, and editing abilities. The essay, presented to a review committee of an essay advisor and two faculty members, should demonstrate a high level of cogency and stylistic grace.