Writing Studies
9-12 credits in courses exploring current theories about writing, the teaching of writing, and the contexts of writing – including linguistics, critical theory, and discourse analysis.
The concentration in Writing Studies allows students to develop an interest in the theory and practice of teaching composition and empirical research in writing studies. The student may choose from among available courses in composition theory, pedagogy, linguistics, literacy, and rhetoric.
Candidates for this degree also may take related courses from faculty in Communication (Nathan Stormer) and Education.
Requirements
Creative Writing
9-12 credits in workshops and thesis credits in fiction.
The concentration in Fiction Writing allows the student to focus on the writing of fiction, an on preparing a creative thesis, in addition to receiving graduate-level training in literature and literary criticism. Graduate fiction writing courses combine workshop situations with one-on-one instruction and enable students to work closely with practicing professionals.
The New Writing Series offers a lively schedule of readings throughout the year. Students in this concentration give public readings on campus as part of their thesis preparation.
Requirements
Gender & LIterature
9-12 credits in courses exploring the interrelationships of gender, language and literature.
The concentration in Gender & Literature allows students to pursue focused study of the workings of gender in language and literature. Coursework may include studies of women writers, of feminist criticism, gender criticism, or queer theory, of femininities and/or masculinities in particular literary periods or schools, as well as of theoretical questions such as the gendered nature of language.
N.B. English M.A. students may also opt for the Interdisciplinary Graduate Specialization in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies offered by the University’s WGS program.
Requirements
Poetry & Poetics
9-12 credits emphasizing theoretical and creative approaches to poetry and poetics. This concentration allows students to combine interests in literary analysis and poetry writing.
Poetry and poetics students benefit from the presence in the department of the New Writing Series as well as events sponsored by the Center for Poetry and Poetics, and may have the opportunity to contribute editorial assistance to the Center’s publications.
Requirements
Plus one of the following options
