Learning Objectives
approved by the graduate committee 10/23/08
Upon completion of the M.A. curriculum in English, graduate students should be familiar with a broad spectrum of English Studies disciplines and approaches and should demonstrate proficiency in British and American Literature, Linguistics, and Rhetoric and Composition. The desired proficiencies entail:
Sub-disciplinary content
- understanding the development of British and American literary traditions, including familiarity with significant writers, their works, and the connections among them
- understanding the structure of language and its variation over time and across social situations and social groups
- understanding the movements and traditions of Composition and Rhetoric Studies
Development of Abilities
- the ability to think critically and creatively and to write effectively within all these areas of English Studies
- the ability to conduct original research and integrate criticism (secondary sources) effectively into original analyses
Preparation for Lifelong Pursuits
- Students completing the M.A. Program in English should have developed literary, linguistic, and rhetorical skills necessary to pursue lifelong learning.
- Students completing the M.A. Program in English should be familiar with a broad range of English Studies disciplines and have developed skills and knowledge necessary to pursue discipline-related professional and personal goals.