University of Kansas

What you'll study

The MA in English Language and Literature combines advanced coursework in literary history and theory with opportunities for specialised research. Core study typically covers major periods and traditions—such as medieval and early modern literature, nineteenth- and twentieth-century American and British literatures—and seminars in literary theory, cultural studies and critical methods. Students choose from a range of elective topics including Shakespeare, African American literature, gender and sexuality studies, postcolonial studies, contemporary poetry and fiction, and digital humanities.

Programme structure commonly offers both thesis and non-thesis options. Students pursue seminar work, a graduate-level research methods course, and a sustained research project or thesis if they opt for the research track. Practical components such as pedagogy training and supervised teaching as a graduate teaching assistant prepare students for college-level instruction. Students also have opportunities to undertake archival work using the university's research libraries and special collections, and to collaborate with faculty on conference papers or publications.

Entry requirements

• A completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically with a major or substantial background in English, literature, or a closely related humanities field.
• Official transcripts demonstrating a strong academic record at undergraduate level. Exact grade requirements vary by cohort and are considered in the context of the whole application.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic interests, research goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study in English.
• A writing sample that demonstrates ability to do close reading and critical analysis (often an undergraduate essay or similar work).
• Two to three letters of recommendation from academic referees who can speak to the applicant's scholarly potential.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, via recognised tests or approved exemptions.

Applicants should consult the department for details about optional materials and any standardised testing policies. Admission committees consider the whole application, including research fit with faculty, teaching potential and relevant experience.

Career prospects

• Progression to doctoral study and careers in university-level teaching and research.
• Secondary school teaching and educational roles, often combined with relevant certification where required by regional authorities.
• Publishing, editorial work and literary journalism, including positions with trade and academic presses.
• Writing, communications, and content strategy roles in corporate, non-profit and public-sector organisations.
• Library, archives and cultural heritage positions that value skills in textual analysis, research and curation.
• Digital humanities, public scholarship and project management roles that draw on interdisciplinary research and technical literacy.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers a literature MA embedded in a research-active department with faculty working across historical periods and critical approaches, allowing strong mentorship and a wide array of seminar choices. Graduate students benefit from teaching experience through graduate assistantships, close supervision for thesis work, and access to extensive research resources including departmental collections and the university's special collections and research libraries.

Interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged through connections with related programmes and centres, and students can engage with public-facing initiatives, conferences and publication opportunities. The campus community supports professional development for aspiring teachers and researchers, while the university's regional and cultural networks create pathways to internships and employment in publishing, museums, archives and the wider cultural sector.