Graduate School FAQs

Why should I apply to graduate school?

If you love literature and wish to take your study of it to a more advanced level, consider earning a M.A., M.F.A., or Ph.D. The work required for these degrees, along with experience as a teaching assistant, can prepare your for a career teaching in a college or university.

When should I apply to graduate school?

Especially if you are a "traditional age" student, taking some time off between undergraduate and graduate school is almost always a good idea. Life and work experience makes you a more interesting (and possibly more motivated) applicant to graduate schools. Most graduate school deadlines are in January and February.

What are the parts of an application?

The crucial part of an application to graduate school in the humanities is the writing sample. The other components of an application are test scores, recommendations, a personal statement, and a transcript. None of these will offset a poor writing sample, and a brilliant writing sample will compensate for weaknesses elsewhere. A good piece of critical writing will show your originality, your daring, and your understanding of exigence. That is, you must demonstrate your command of the scholarship on your topic and show why your contribution to it is worth reading.