The master of arts program in Romance Languages offers a broad range of courses in literary analysis, criticism, and linguistics. For the MA a total of 30 hours of coursework is required, at least half of which must be in graduate seminars, and a course in the history of the language of specialization must be included in the study program. A master's thesis is optional in lieu of 6 hours of seminars.
All students take a comprehensive examination at the conclusion of their coursework.
In addition, students take an oral examination to demonstrate competency in French or Spanish. In consultation with their Doctoral Program Committee students may select secondary areas of specialization, e.g., critical theory, literary or intellectual history, etc., and design a course of study appropriate to their professional interests and goals. Admission To be admitted to the MA program a candidate must present adequate preparation in language and literature at the undergraduate level, with a minimum of four advanced courses, three of which must be in literature. To apply, candidates must submit official transcripts of all graduate and undergraduate work, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. Please note that the admissions process has been decentralized.