University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The MA programme combines close study of literary texts with coursework in literary theory, history, and methods of literary research. Core and elective modules typically cover areas such as modern and contemporary literature, nineteenth- and twentieth-century British and American literature, literary theory and criticism, rhetoric and composition, and specialised topics such as gender studies, postcolonial studies, and digital humanities. Students read primary texts closely, write extended analytical essays, and develop research projects under faculty supervision.

Programme structures commonly offer both thesis and non-thesis (coursework or project) pathways. A typical course load includes seminars in research methods and theory, advanced seminars in chosen chronological or thematic areas, and a practicum in teaching college-level composition for those seeking preparation for academic work. Independent study and a culminating thesis or capstone project allow students to produce a sustained piece of original scholarship or an applied professional portfolio.

Typical modules and seminars

• Literary Theory and Critical Methods
• Seminar in American Literature
• Seminar in British Literature
• Rhetoric and Composition Studies
• Research Methods in the Humanities
• Special Topics: e.g., Gender and Literature, Postcolonial Literatures, Digital Texts
• Graduate Teaching Practicum
• Thesis or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree, typically with a substantial component in English or a related humanities discipline, and demonstrate a strong academic record. Required application materials usually include official transcripts, a personal statement describing academic and professional goals, a writing sample (analytical literary essay or academic paper), and two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt. The department reviews each application holistically and may consider relevant professional experience. Prospective students whose background is not primarily in literature may be admitted conditionally and asked to take preparatory coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in English Language and Literature pursue a range of careers that rely on advanced critical thinking, research, and written communication. Common paths include:

• PhD study and academic careers in teaching and research
• Secondary education and curriculum development (with appropriate certification where required)
• Publishing, editing, and literary agency work
• Communications, content strategy, and technical writing in public and private sectors
• Non-profit and cultural organisations, including programming and outreach
• Further professional training in law, public policy, or information sciences

Many graduates combine discipline-specific expertise with teaching experience gained during the programme to enhance employability in both academic and non-academic fields.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a supportive, research-oriented environment with small seminar sizes that foster close faculty mentoring and peer collaboration. Graduate students have opportunities to gain practical teaching experience through composition instruction and to engage with faculty whose research spans historical periods and theoretical approaches. The campus provides access to library collections, archives, and interdisciplinary centres that enrich literary study.

Located in Grand Forks, the university balances a focused academic setting with opportunities for regional engagement and public humanities work. Graduate students can also benefit from professional development resources, workshops on publishing and grant-writing, and a community of scholars across the humanities and allied disciplines.