Degree Requirements
Master of Arts
Of the 30 credits required for the degree, students are expected to complete a minimum of 24 credits of graded coursework at the 5000, 8000, or 9000 levels, including one course in a period before 1700 and one course in a period from 1700 to 1900. In addition to the graded coursework, students are expected to complete Introduction to Literary Research (ENGL 8800 ).
Students are expected to complete a final exercise consisting of either an oral examination, a thesis or a pedagogy option.
Students are expected to demonstrate reading proficiency in a foreign language by passing a translation exam administered by an appropriate University department or achieving a grade of B or better in an intermediate or advanced course in the target language.
Concentration in World Religions, World Literatures
In tandem with the standard requirements for the master's degree, students are expected to complete the three-credit course Introduction to World Religions, World Literatures; three semesters of a one-credit Proseminar in World Religions, World Literatures; a minimum of six credits in a single religious tradition; a minimum of six credits in the literature of a single language community (either in one historical period or two consecutive historical periods) or in the literature of single pair of language communities within one historical period; and a minimum of three credits that involve the reading of scriptural texts. A roster of eligible courses is approved by the faculty advisory committee for the concentration in World Religions, World Literatures, and additional courses may be approved by the student's advisor.
Concentration in Teaching Literature and Writing
In tandem with the standard requirements for the master's degree, students are expected to complete Writing Pedagogy ( ENGL 8900 ), one course in Literary Pedagogy (ENGL 5900 or an approved equivalent), and a thesis on pedagogy.
In addition, students are expected to complete a pedagogy practicum through two semester-length appointments as a graduate teaching assistant.

