Accelerated M.A. in English

Complete your undergraduate degree and get an M.A. in English in as little as 5 years.

About the Program

Our Accelerated Master's Program in English allows you to complete your B.A. in English and earn an M.A in English in as little as 5 years! This program is designed for eager and focused English majors with desire to continue on their studies as a graduate student working toward one of two M.A. degrees: you can pursue the MA in English or a general MA which offers you the opportunity to take courses from any of our four graduate programs.

Admission Eligibility

Any English major may apply to the program during the Spring semester of their junior year. (In some cases students may be able to apply in their senior year; please contact the Program Coordinator for information.) You must have an excellent academic record and the ability to balance your coursework in a fast-paced program.

To be considered for admission, you must:

  • have earned 75 units with a 3.3 GPA at the time of application
  • complete 90 units by the time you are admitted (Fall of senior year)
  • complete at least 12 units of upper-division in English or American literature courses at the UA prior to entering the program.

We recommend that you speak with your academic advisor about your interest in the program early to plan your courses accordingly.

Application Process

Your online application will include the following:

  • Names of 2 members of the English Department faculty we can contact about your qualifications for the AMP (we suggest these be faculty members who taught you in upper-division courses).
  • A brief (no more than one page) discussion of the interests you plan to pursue as an MA candidate and any future plans the MA might enhance or contribute to.
  • Two clean copies of  papers you have written for upper division English classes.

Program Requirements

To receive your M.A. in English degree, you will:

  • enroll in and complete 30 units of graduate courses, 12 of which must be taken during your senior year of undergraduate study (can be counted toward both B.A. and M.A. degrees); 18 units to be completed during your second year in the program
  • pass either the M.A. examination or the MA portfolio

To be confirmed for Graduate Status at the beginning of your second year in the program, you must:

  • maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or above in 12 credits of graduate courses you took during your first year
  • file an approved Plan of Study after consulting with the Program Director

Questions?

Contact John Melillo, Director of the Graduate Literature Program, for more information or set up a brief informal meeting.