As preparation for work on the Master of Arts with a major in English, a strong undergraduate background in British and American literature and language is desirable, plus advanced courses in related fields. Doctor of Philosophy To enter the doctoral degree program, all students must pass the qualifying examination. Students who began their graduate work at the University must pass the examination in the spring semester of the second year of graduate study. Students who began graduate study at another institution may petition the graduate adviser to transfer applicable coursework from the other school. Students seek admission to candidacy for the doctoral degree after completing this coursework, passing the doctoral three-area examination, and receiving approval of the dissertation prospectus.
Most students seek admission to candidacy by the end of the third year of doctoral study.