Program Description

The master of arts in literature brings together literary scholars, theorists, creative writers, and literary translators who share a commitment to transnational and interdisciplinary approaches to literary study and practice.  

In addition to seminars in literary studies, students have the opportunity to participate in workshops in creative writing and literary translation, as well in seminars in a wide range of other disciplines, such as film studies, the history of ideas, philosophy, and the visual and performing arts. Students in the master’s program elect either a professional option (coursework only) or a research option (coursework plus research portfolio). Students whose primary interest is in creative writing or literary translation have the option to apply to receive graduate certificates in those areas. 

Benefits

The master’s in literature provides students with a rigorous foundation in the discipline of literary studies and a broad understanding of global literary traditions, critical approaches, and theoretical debates. At UT Dallas, the study of literature is not divided across departments of English, Spanish, French, German, and East Asian literature; instead, the study of literature takes place in a single program that encompasses not only English literature but also the literatures of Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Creative writing and literary translation are integral parts of the Graduate Program in Literature at UT Dallas, and one of the core values of the program is that the dialogue between creative and critical practitioners is essential.  

Other benefits include: 

• World-Class Faculty: The program is led by faculty in the literature program who are leading scholars, theorists, creative writers and literary translators. 
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses in the master’s program will introduce students to new ideas, methodologies, and competencies while preparing them to succeed in both careers in secondary and postsecondary education as well as a wide range of careers outside higher education. 
• Location: Situated in the greater Dallas region—recently rated by Forbes magazine as the #1 “Best City for Jobs” — UT Dallas provides students with easy access to employers and internship opportunities, not to mention a large and supportive alumni population. 

Career Opportunities

In addition to law schools and PhD programs, graduates of the literature master’s program are well-prepared for positions in both public and private sectors, such as: 

• Teacher/instructor 
• Writer 
• Editor 
• Publisher 
• Administrator 
• Translator 
• Journalist 

Career settings for graduates of the master’s in literature may include higher education, non-profits, cultural and historical organizations, publishing houses, government agencies, international development organizations, museums and archives, business/corporate entities, and independent consulting. 

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Deadline and Requirements

Please take note of all application deadlines and visit the Apply Now webpage to begin the application process. See the literature program website for additional information. 

Applicants to the literature master’s degree program should have: 

• A baccalaureate degree (BA or MA) or its equivalent from an accredited institution of higher education in an arts and humanities field. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit 3 letters of recommendation from individual able to judge the candidate’s potential for success in the master’s degree program. 
• Admissions Essay: Applicants must submit a 650-word narrative essay, which should be reflective rather than factual. The essay should address the applicant’s academic interests and goals and indicate how the master’s program would enable such pursuits. 
• International applicants must submit a TOEFL score of at least 80 on the internet-based test.  Scores must be less than two years old. See the Graduate Catalog for additional information regarding English proficiency requirements for international applicants.