THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Degree Types: PhD, MA, MFA+MA dual degree

The Graduate Program in the Department of English offers advanced study and research in literary history, criticism, and theory, with excellent opportunities for interdepartmental and interdisciplinary study. Courses within the department cover major genres, periods, authors, and a broad range of methodological and theoretical approaches.

The graduate curriculum is enhanced by frequent lectures and workshops with Northwestern faculty and visiting scholars from around the world. Student-organized colloquia, conferences, reading groups, and dissertation groups provide opportunities for students to present their research to an audience of peers.

Students in this program are also encouraged to participate in TGS’s Interdisciplinary Cluster Initiative program. For more information on how you can have a second intellectual “home” outside of your department or program, please visit the Interdisciplinary Cluster Initiative page.

Additional resources:

• Department website
• Program handbook(s)

Degree Requirements

The following requirements are in addition to, or further elaborate upon, those requirements outlined in The Graduate School Policy Guide.

Master's

Total Units Required: 9

Course List

Course	Title
Courses
Two 400-level English Department seminars focusing on pre-1800 literature
Two 400-level English Department seminars focusing on post-1800 literature
Five elective seminars from the following:
ENGLISH 410-0	Introduction to Graduate Study
Up to three can be taken in related departments at the student’s option
Up to four can, with approval, be taken at the 300-level

Other MA Degree Requirements

• Capstone Essay: submitted by end of Spring Quarter, this 20-25 page essay will typically be an expanded version of one written for an English Department graduate seminar, revised in response to comments from, and as appropriate in consultation with, the seminar instructor.

The MA is a terminal degree and is in no way linked to admission to the PhD program. MA students wishing to enter the PhD program must apply to that program.