The M.A. in English is a program intended to provide students with advanced studies in the various literatures written originally in English (with occasional supplementary literature in translation). Thus, the program concentrates on the range of literature produced in the English language, regardless of nationality or dialect. British, American, and Anglophone literature are studied with emphases upon literary history, history of genre, close analysis of individual authors and themes, cultural context, and critical theory.
The degree offers two tracks--one requiring 33 hours of course work followed by qualifying examinations, and the other requiring 27 hours of course work followed by a 6-credit-hour thesis project. Students must take courses in an author or topic, a literary period, and a genre. These are all variable-content courses and may be taken more than once. The curriculum also requires a course that introduces students to the history of literary studies and provides them with the conceptual and critical vocabulary of the discipline, as well as instruction in research methods.
The minimum requirement for application is a minor in English (at least 21 credits). In addition to the items already required from applicants to all GVSU graduate programs (see "Graduate Admission"), applicants to the M.A. program are required to submit scores from the Graduate Records Exam (general exam only-subject test not required), a writing sample, and a brief statement of purpose. The ideal writing sample will reflect the applicant's ability to produce a fully-developed literary-critical argument, including close reading, analytical thinking, and fluent writing. Although applicants usually submit a paper of at least 8-10 pages demonstrating an effective use of scholarly sources, the writing sample need not meet this description at all points for the application to be considered. The statement of purpose should be approximately 250 to 500 words explaining your academic preparation, interest in this program, and professional goals. A maximum of 9 graduate credits earned prior to graduate admission may apply to degree requirements. Applications should be submitted prior to January 15th. Applications received later will be considered, space permitting.
To register for the GRE, either go to the Educational Testing Service Website, or contact Prometric Testing in Grand Rapids, MI (616-957-0368).
