University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The MA in English at the University of Tennessee combines focused study in literary periods and genres with training in theory, research methods and pedagogy. Core seminar work typically covers major areas such as British literature, American literature, and world literatures, alongside courses in literary theory, cultural studies and professional practices.

• Period and genre seminars: medieval, early modern, eighteenth-century, Victorian, modernism, postwar and contemporary literature
• Theory and criticism: close reading, critical theory, feminist and gender studies, postcolonial theory, and digital humanities approaches
• Language and rhetoric: advanced study in rhetoric and composition, discourse analysis and language pedagogy
• Research methods and practicum: research design, archival methods using the University Libraries and Special Collections, and preparation of a thesis or a substantial research project
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses drawing on American Studies, Film Studies, Communications, Digital Humanities and Women's & Gender Studies

Students choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks; the thesis track emphasises original research under faculty supervision, while the non-thesis option focuses on course work and a capstone project. Many students gain teaching experience through graduate assistantships that include leading discussion sections or first-year writing courses.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record in English or a related discipline. Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• A statement of purpose outlining academic interests and goals
• A current writing sample demonstrating analytical and research skills (often an essay of 15–25 pages)
• Letters of recommendation, usually two to three from academic referees
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants (accepted tests include TOEFL or IELTS)

Many programmes consider undergraduate GPA as an important factor; a competitive GPA and evidence of preparation for graduate-level research strengthen an application. GRE requirements vary by year and programme policy, so applicants should check current guidance; relevant professional experience and strong writing samples can compensate where standardised tests are optional.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in English pursue a range of careers that build on advanced skills in research, writing, analysis and teaching. Common pathways include:

• Further academic study and research leading to doctoral programmes
• Teaching at the secondary level (often alongside state certification) or as college instructors
• Publishing, editing, literary agency and book production roles
• Editorial and content roles in media, communications, marketing and nonprofit organisations
• Digital humanities, archives, libraries and cultural heritage work (often in conjunction with additional training or credentials)
• Technical and professional writing, grant writing, and policy or research support roles in government and private sectors

The degree develops transferable skills prized across sectors: critical thinking, persuasive writing, project management and the ability to synthesise complex information.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The English department at the University of Tennessee offers a collegial environment with access to substantial research resources, including the University Libraries and Special Collections Research Center and local archival materials. Small seminar sizes allow close mentorship from faculty whose interests span traditional literary scholarship, rhetoric and composition, and interdisciplinary work.

Graduate students benefit from professional development opportunities, such as teaching assistantships, workshops in pedagogy and research funding options. The Knoxville campus’s vibrant arts and cultural scene, together with collaborative links to programmes across the humanities and social sciences, provides diverse opportunities for internships, community engagement and interdisciplinary research.