English - MA

The MA program in British and American literature offers opportunities for both professional advancement and personal development. It may be taken as a terminal course of study or as preparation for doctoral work in English or other humanities fields. In addition to the usual lecture, discussion, and seminar classes, the program offers reading tutorials and the opportunity for writing a research essay under the guidance of a senior faculty member.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements for admission , the following departmental requirements must be met: 18 credits of advanced undergraduate courses in British and American literature (exclusive of courses in journalism and writing), a writing sample of about 10 pages (preferably an undergraduate research paper) and the GRE General Test. Students who have done their major work in English in non-English-speaking countries are usually not eligible for admission to graduate courses in English without additional undergraduate preparation in an American college or university.

Degree Requirements

Courses

Each candidate must complete an approved program of study of at least 30 credits, which must include one course in British literature before 1800 and ENGL 78900 (Master’s Thesis). We strongly recommend that students take ENGL 78700 (Studies in Literary Theory and Criticism) in their first or second semester. Courses other than those offered in the Department of English may be credited toward the 30 credits with the approval of the graduate adviser but they may in no case exceed 6 credits. Six credits of relevant graduate work done at another institution may be credited when approved by the graduate adviser.

Foreign Language

The candidate must demonstrate a reading knowledge of French, German, Latin or Spanish. Another language may be substituted with the approval of the graduate adviser.

Comprehensive Examination

The candidate must pass a written comprehensive examination in British and American literature.

Master of Arts Thesis

The candidate must submit a satisfactory master of arts thesis, incorporating original work and research, which will be approved by two appropriate members of the faculty and the graduate adviser. Two copies prepared for binding are required.

Nonmatriculants

After applicants have been accepted by Hunter College as nonmatriculant students, their records must be evaluated prior to registration by the graduate adviser before they can be admitted to English Department courses. Acceptance by Hunter College does not guarantee acceptance by the Department of English. Not more than 9 credits may be transferred from nonmatriculated to matriculated status.