English, M.A.

The Master of Arts in English at Belmont engages students in reading literature and invites them to write in a variety of genres and styles including fiction or poetry, literary criticism, creative non-fiction, and ethnography. Courses are designed to build on strengths and knowledge from students’ undergraduate and professional experience and to broaden their awareness of literary studies and writing. The graduate faculty is committed to fostering the skills of critical and historical reading as well as creative and analytical writing, and to increasing student expertise in scholarly research.

By helping students achieve advanced levels of skill and appreciation for reading, writing, peer discussion and peer feedback, preparation of presentations, reflective portfolios, and scholarly projects on topics of their choice, the program enables students to develop professionally and encourages them to engage in critical conversations in the field. The MA in English at Belmont prepares students for PhD programs in literature and composition, and possibly creative writing. Graduates have also pursued careers in teaching, publishing, business, non-profit work, law and entertainment.

Academic Policies

A. Requirements for Admission - Master of Arts in English

Applications for admission to the M.A. program are available from the Graduate Office in the English Department and on our web site (www.belmont.edu). In addition to the completed application form, the prospective student must submit the following application portfolio:

1. Official copies of all college and university transcripts.
2. A writing sample from a recent academic or professional setting.
3. A writing sample prepared especially for the admissions portfolio.
4. Two letters of recommendation.
5. A $50.00 non-refundable application fee.

The admissions form provides complete instructions for submitting each of the above items. In addition to the portfolio, the prospective student must have an interview with the Director of English Graduate Studies.

Each application portfolio will be reviewed to assess the overall abilities of the applicant and the potential for success in this program. Students lacking sufficient undergraduate preparation in English may be required to take additional undergraduate courses prior to admission to candidacy. Applicants are accepted on a rolling admissions pattern; thus, each applicant will be notified of the admissions committee’s decision shortly after the admissions portfolio is completed.

B. Financial Aid

A limited number graduate assistanceships are available to incoming students; a small number of competitive graduate teaching assistantships may be applied for after students have successfully completed 18 hours in the program. Applications are available through the Graduate Office in the Department of English.

C. Study Abroad

Study in Britain and other countries for graduate credit is possible through approved Belmont programs. Please contact the Director of Graduate Studies in English for details.

D. Capstone Thesis or Portfolio

Each student’s program culminates with a thesis or portfolio, prepared with the guidance of a faculty mentor.