Typical MA Schedule

Fall Semester

  • Three 4-credit courses 
  • Begin to contemplate whether your summertime completion of the MA will consist of writing an MA essay or preparing for an MA exam.
    • Essay: Start looking for faculty advisors and thinking about possible essay topics. Speak to the MA advisor if you would like to expand on an essay written for
    • Exam: Review the exam lists (for your exam, you will need to select four lists, representing four fields) and consult with the MA advisor.

Spring Semester

  • Three 4-credit courses
  • Make the final decision as to whether you’re going to complete the program with an MA essay or MA exam.  
    • Essay: Consult with possible faculty advisors, and consider seminar essays that might serve as the start of the MA essay. By April 15 submit a form to the department listing your proposed topics and faculty advisor(s).
    • Exam: Discuss the exam process with the MA advisor, select your four exam lists, and choose your exam committee. By April 15 finalize exam details with the MA advisor.

Summer

  • Register for 6-credits of ENG 491, Master's Reading Course, plus ENG 897 (this does not carry credits, but needs to be added for full time status in the summer). 
  • Essay: Work on your MA essay in consultation with your faculty advisor(s). The submission deadline for the MA Essay is August 1.
  • Exam: Complete the MA exam by August 1.
  • Arrange a deadline with your instructors to finish any incompletes so that your final grade to the dean’s office can be submitted no later than the end of the first week of August. If your grade is not reported by then, you will not be able to graduate.