Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

The programme emphasizes close reading, literary history, theory and advanced research methods. Core seminar work typically covers major periods and genres—such as British and American literature, Shakespeare and early modern studies, contemporary and twentieth-century literature—and thematic approaches including postcolonial, race and gender studies.

Students pursue a combination of required seminars and elective courses that may include:

• Graduate Literary Theory: contemporary critical approaches and foundational theoretical texts.
• Period Studies: in-depth study of medieval, early modern, nineteenth-century, modernist and contemporary literatures.
• Thematic/Genre Courses: such as American studies, global literature, drama, poetry and creative writing workshops.
• Research Methods and Pedagogy: advanced research practicum, bibliographic study, and approaches to teaching literature at the college level.
• Capstone or Thesis: options typically include a supervised research thesis or a non-thesis culminating project/ comprehensive examination, depending on student goals.

Students can expect considerable emphasis on seminar-style discussion, extensive writing, and independent research, culminating in a substantial final project or dissertation preparation if pursuing further study.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a strong academic record. Degrees in English, literature, writing or related humanities fields are preferred, but candidates with other undergraduate backgrounds who demonstrate preparedness through prior coursework or a strong writing sample may also be considered.

Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, a writing sample (often an essay of substantial critical analysis), and letters of recommendation. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent institutional evidence. Some applicants may be asked to meet additional requirements such as an interview or supplemental materials; consult the department for specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of professions that value analytical thinking, research and advanced communication skills. Common career paths include:

• Teaching at community colleges and preparing for secondary or higher education careers (note that K–12 teaching may require separate state certification).
• Further academic study through doctoral programmes in literature or related fields.
• Publishing, editing and literary agency work.
• Professional writing, content strategy, communications, and public relations.
• Non-profit and cultural organisations, including roles in arts administration and heritage interpretation.
• Digital humanities, information curation and research roles in libraries and archives.

The programme’s focus on research and pedagogy also prepares graduates for roles that require curriculum development, academic administration and grant writing.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a faculty-led, research-oriented master’s environment with small seminars that prioritise discussion and one-on-one mentorship. Students benefit from personalised supervision for thesis projects and opportunities to gain teaching experience through graduate assistantships and classroom partnerships.

The university’s multiple campuses and regional connections provide access to local cultural organisations, archives and internship possibilities, while a collegial department fosters professional development through conferences, colloquia and publication guidance. The programme is designed to balance rigorous scholarly training with practical preparation for a range of careers in education, writing and the humanities.