English Department
Faculty Office Bldg. (47), Room 32-E
805 756-2596

This program includes the study of literary criticism, language, theory of composition, and literature. It is designed to provide students with the knowledge and command of English that will prepare them specifically for:

• teaching English at the elementary, secondary, or community college levels;

• employment in business, industry, and government service where specific communication skills are demanded;

• self-directed development in writing;

• graduate work at other institutions.

Admission with classified status requires that the student have a baccalaureate in English from an accredited institution (or the equivalent, as determined by the English Graduate Committee), have maintained a grade point average of 3.0 for the last 90 quarter units (60 semester units), and a writing sample submitted to the English Graduate adviser. Non-native speakers should also submit TOEFL scores (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Advancement to candidacy requires approval of a formal program of study by the Graduate Committee and completion of 12 units with a grade point average of 3.0.

• 48 units of graduate work approved by the Director of Graduate Studies and the Graduate Committee;

• a grade point average of 3.0 or better in all courses taken subsequent to admission;

• two years of a foreign language (e.g., French, Spanish, German) or certification of the equivalent;

• a comprehensive examination at the end of 48 units of study.

The foreign language requirement must be satisfied before the comprehensive examination is taken. Students will elect an emphasis within the Master of Arts program: literature, linguistics, or writing.

Applications for admission and requests for further information should be directed to the Admissions Office. All applications should include a writing sample (a critical essay on a work of literature) and three letters of recommendation.