Designed to prepare students for teaching careers either in independent schools or at the post-secondary level, the MA with a Concentration in Teaching Literature and Writing unites the study of literature with the study of pedagogy, while providing training and experience in teaching. The concentration takes two years to complete. Students take courses in literature, theory, criticism, and pedagogy in the first year. In the second year they continue their studies of literature and pedagogy while serving as writing instructors or teaching assistants for literature courses. Also in the second year, students culminate their work in the program with a thesis, composed in the spring semester, focused on an aspect of literary or writing pedagogy.
In the second year of the program and in compensation for their service as teachers, students receive full tuition support, payment of university fees, one-person health insurance coverage, and wages.
Program Requirements:
In tandem with the standard requirements for the master’s degree, students are expected to complete Pedagogy (ENGL 8900), one course in Literary Pedagogy (ENGL 5900 or an approved equivalent), and a thesis on pedagogy.
In addition, students are expected to complete a pedagogy practicum through two semester-length appointments as a graduate teaching assistant.
Typical Enrollment and Teaching Pattern:
First Year:
Fall: ENGL 8800: Intro to Research Methods
3 additional graduate English courses
Spring: ENGL 8900: Pedagogy Seminar (Writing)
2-3 additional graduate English courses
Second Year:
Fall: 1 Course in Literary Pedagogy (ENGL 5900 or an approved equivalent)
1 additional Graduate English Course
NTR courses as needed to raise credit hours to 12
Teaching assignment: 1 section of ENWR or 1 Literature Discussion Section
Spring: MA Thesis (ENGL 8998) (MA Pedagogy Thesis guidelines)
Optional additional Graduate English Course
NTR courses as needed to raise credit hours to 12
Teaching assignment: 1 section of ENWR or 1 Literature Discussion Section
For further information, please contact the Director of Admissions, Sandhya Shukla.