Virginia Commonwealth University

What you'll study

The programme combines close reading, historical study, and theoretical approaches to literature in English from medieval to contemporary periods, with attention to global and transnational perspectives. Students follow a curriculum of seminars, elective modules, and a capstone (thesis or major research project), with options to pursue coursework in cultural studies, rhetoric and composition, digital humanities, or pedagogy.

Typical modules and work

• Advanced Literary Theory and Methodology
• Seminars in American, British, and Global Literatures
• Survey courses in literary history (e.g. nineteenth-century, modernism, postcolonial studies)
• Specialist electives such as gender and sexuality studies, environmental humanities, or digital textual practices
• Research methods and professionalisation (grant writing, publication, pedagogy)
• Capstone: MA thesis or equivalent substantial research project

Structure

The degree typically requires a mix of taught seminars and independent research credits. Students may choose a more classroom-focused route that includes pedagogy training and teaching practica, or a research route culminating in a supervised thesis. Part-time study is often possible to accommodate professional commitments.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in English, literature, or a closely related field, with a strong academic record. Admissions normally expect evidence of capability for graduate-level research and writing.

• Transcripts demonstrating undergraduate academic performance
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests and goals
• Writing sample (scholarly essay or substantial critical paper)
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees
• Curriculum vitae or résumé
• International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency; specific tests and minimum scores are listed by the university’s admissions office

Some applicants may be invited to an interview. The programme may consider relevant professional experience in lieu of a strictly literary undergraduate degree on a case-by-case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with advanced skills in critical thinking, research, close reading, and written communication — all transferable across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Further academic study (PhD programmes) and careers in teaching and research
• Secondary or post-secondary teaching and pedagogical roles (often after additional certification where required)
• Publishing, editing, and literary agency work
• Communications, content strategy, and copywriting in public and private sectors
• Museum, archive and public humanities roles, including curatorial assistance and programme development
• Non-profit, government and cultural policy positions requiring strong analytical and writing skills

Why study at Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU offers a dynamic urban campus in Richmond, with active engagement between faculty scholarship and the city’s cultural institutions. Students benefit from personalised mentorship, opportunities to teach undergraduates as part of professional development, and access to research resources including special collections and digital scholarship facilities.

The university’s connections with local museums, libraries and arts organisations provide practical internship and networking opportunities, while a community of scholars across related departments (such as American studies, history and media studies) supports interdisciplinary research. The programme emphasises both rigorous scholarly training and preparation for a range of careers that value expert communication and cultural analysis.