MA in English Literature

Program Objectives

The curriculum focuses on breadth of content, providing broad surveys of English, American and World Literature while also requiring a depth of knowledge in literary research, history and interpretation. Students will hone their critical thinking and writing skills as they master the concepts and theories central to the study of literature. The Program of Study, while comprehensive in scope, is distinctive in its emphasis on gender: Notre Dame's mission focuses on women's ability to transform the world through education and all courses in this Program include literature by women and issues of women in literature.

The Program of Study is designed primarily for working adults who choose to pursue the degree part-time. Therefore, courses are offered in a sequence, with one course taught per semester (one evening weekly in fall and spring and two evenings weekly during each of the two summer sessions), providing for completion of coursework and comprehensive exams within three years.

Study for the Master of Arts in English requires ten courses (3 credits each) in literary research methods, literary theory, literary movements and topics seminars. Students complete one required core course in research and theory, which will provide students with the skills needed to do graduate-level work in reading and writing literary criticism. Students also complete eight additional courses; the courses in Literary Movements provide breadth in literary history. Topics courses provide depth in a particular significant area. Students may transfer up to two graduate courses from another accredited English graduate program, at the discretion of the English Graduate Council.

The Program culminates in a comprehensive exam, which students will take at the end of their three years of coursework. A reading list will be provided. The exam may be attempted only twice and the student must pass it in order to earn the Master's degree.