Florida State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core work in literary history and critical theory with specialised seminars and independent research. Students take graduate courses across major periods and areas—such as medieval and renaissance literature, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century studies, modern and contemporary literature, American literature, and world and postcolonial literatures—alongside training in literary theory, cultural studies and research methods.

• Core seminars: advanced study in literary theory, criticism and research methodology.
• Period and genre courses: focused seminars in British, American and global literary periods; poetry, prose and drama studies.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses in digital humanities, film and media studies, creative writing, rhetoric and composition, and cultural studies.
• Graduate teaching preparation: pedagogy courses and supervised teaching opportunities for those serving as graduate instructors or teaching assistants.
• Research component: students complete a substantial final project, typically a thesis or a comprehensive examination with an accompanying research paper, or a capstone portfolio depending on the chosen track.

The degree is structured to allow both a concentrated research pathway (thesis) and a coursework-focused pathway (non-thesis), with full‑time students usually completing the programme in one to two years depending on course load and research commitments.

Entry requirements

Applicants should typically hold a bachelor’s degree in English or a closely related humanities discipline. Competitive applicants demonstrate preparation in literary study and critical writing.

• Academic transcripts: evidence of strong undergraduate performance in relevant courses.
• Writing sample: a substantial critical essay or research paper that shows analytical ability and familiarity with literary scholarship.
• Letters of recommendation: academic references that speak to readiness for graduate-level work.
• Personal statement/CV: a statement of purpose outlining research interests and professional goals, plus a current curriculum vitae.
• English language proficiency: for international applicants, an approved test of English proficiency or equivalent demonstration of ability to undertake graduate study in English.

The department reviews applications holistically; some applicants without a strictly literary undergraduate degree but with relevant coursework or professional experience in writing and research may be considered. Applicants should consult the department for up-to-date information on any standardised testing requirements and recommended preparatory work.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of academic and professional careers. Many continue to doctoral programmes and pursue university teaching and research. Others use their advanced critical, writing and research skills in careers such as:

• Publishing and editing
• Content strategy, communications and copywriting
• Public humanities, museums and cultural organisations
• Library and archival work (often with additional qualifications)
• Secondary and postsecondary teaching (with appropriate certification where required)
• Research and policy roles in non‑profit and governmental organisations

The department’s emphasis on teaching experience and supervised research helps prepare graduates for both academic and non‑academic career paths.

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University offers a vibrant graduate community with access to extensive library collections, specialised research resources and regular scholarly events. The English department includes faculty working across a broad range of periods and theoretical approaches, providing opportunities for close mentorship and collaborative research.

• Teaching and professional development: ample opportunities for graduate teaching experience and pedagogical training through supervised assignments.
• Research support: access to the university’s research libraries and digital humanities infrastructure to support archival and computational projects.
• Community and events: regular seminars, reading groups, visiting speakers and conferences that connect students with active scholarly networks.
• Location benefits: a campus setting that offers both a rich cultural environment and connections to state institutions and cultural organisations for internships and public scholarship.

Prospective students should consult the department’s graduate admissions pages for detailed information about application procedures, funding and specific faculty research areas to identify potential supervisors aligned with their interests.