University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The MA programme combines intensive seminars in British, American and world literature with training in critical theory, research methods and pedagogical practice. Core work typically covers major chronological and thematic fields—medieval and early modern literature, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century studies, modernism and contemporary literature—alongside focused courses in areas such as African American literature, Southern literature, gender and sexuality studies, postcolonial studies and the history of the book.

Students can expect to take small, discussion-led seminars that emphasise close reading, archival research and sustained writing. Options frequently include courses in literary theory and criticism, digital humanities methods, print culture and editorial practice, and public humanities. The programme supports a substantial research project: many students complete a supervised thesis or a capstone portfolio, while others pursue a course-of-study culminating in comprehensive examinations, depending on their academic and professional goals.

Typical modules and subjects

• Advanced Literary Theory and Criticism
• Seminars in American Literature (including African American and Southern traditions)
• Seminars in British and European Literature (medieval to contemporary)
• Research Methods in the Humanities and Archival Practice
• Digital Humanities and Textual Editing
• Genres and Media: Poetry, Prose, Drama, and Film
• Professionalisation in English: Teaching, Publishing and Public Scholarship

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance in English or a closely related humanities discipline. A competitive application typically includes:

• Transcripts demonstrating undergraduate work in literature and writing
• A concise statement of purpose outlining research interests and reasons for graduate study
• Academic letters of recommendation that can speak to scholarly potential
• A substantive writing sample (such as an undergraduate essay or independent research paper)
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (official test scores or equivalent credential)

The programme’s policy on standardised tests and specific minimum grade requirements may vary; applicants should consult the department’s admissions guidance for current details and any additional supporting materials requested.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in English at UNC Chapel Hill pursue a wide range of career paths. Many continue to doctoral study and academic careers, while others move into teaching at the secondary level or work in higher education administration. Transferable skills developed in the programme—critical reading, advanced research, persuasive writing and project management—are also in demand in publishing, editing, journalism, communications, public policy, cultural institutions (museums, archives), libraries, nonprofit organisations and digital media.

Students are supported in professional development through workshops, internships and opportunities to teach or assist with courses, which help build portfolios and practical experience for both academic and non-academic careers.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill’s Department of English and Comparative Literature offers a rich intellectual environment with faculty expertise across historical periods and special topics—including strong work in American literature, African American studies, early modern studies and digital humanities. The department is integrated with university-wide research initiatives and resources, such as extensive library collections, special collections and digital scholarship centres, which support advanced research and archival work.

The Chapel Hill campus and the surrounding Research Triangle region provide cultural, professional and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities. Graduate students benefit from mentorship, teaching experience and a programme structure designed to prepare students for both doctoral programmes and a broad spectrum of careers that value rigorous textual and cultural analysis.