Students in the Master of Arts degree concentrate on the study of literature in English; this course of study is designed to develop the skills associated with literary scholarship and criticism, as well as literary and cultural theory, thus serving persons who wish to continue beyond the master’s degree and those who wish to deepen their understanding of the critical and creative processes associated with the study of literature while pursuing or preparing for careers in other fields.

The graduate program in English at MSU educates students for successful careers in English Studies, particularly as active scholars in institutions of higher learning. The M.A. degree provides advanced general training in English literature, theory, and criticism. The Ph.D. enables students to cultivate areas of expertise, culminating in the doctoral dissertation. Doctoral education in English trains scholars for the breadth of knowledge necessary to the pedagogical and programmatic needs of most English departments, as well as the expertise necessary to make a significant scholarly contribution. To prepare students for the diversity of the discipline we provide them with:

• A critical understanding of the various methods and theoretical approaches to the field, as well as thorough knowledge of literary canons and traditions;

• Opportunities to interpret and analyze texts, genres, and media;

• Training in research and writing for expert audiences;

• Training in the teaching of college literature and critical thinking;

• Training in the Digital Humanities.