For MFA program information,
see Creative Writing.
Literature admissions paused
As a result of the financial pressures created by the pandemic, we will not be accepting applications this fall for enrollment in the MA or PhD program next year (2021-22). For admission to the MFA, please see the Creative Writing Program. We look forward to resuming admissions and reviewing your application in fall 2021 for MA and PhD enrollment in the academic year 2022-23. Please revisit our website next summer for updated information.
Why choose graduate study in English at the University of Minnesota?
- Pursue cutting-edge literary studies research with faculty who are innovating the discipline
- Receive guaranteed funding support for six years to complete the PhD program
- Participate in cross-department interdisciplinary workshops, such as the Race, Indigeneity, and Sexual Studies Initiative, Center for Medieval Studies, and Center for Early Modern History
- Work with the University of Minnesota’s rich archival holdings, such as the Givens Collection of African American Literature, Upper Midwest Literary Archives, and pre-1800 collections in the James Ford Bell Library
- Take advantage of the literary, cultural, and artistic scenes in Minneapolis and St. Paul, a diverse and vibrant urban setting
What makes our faculty stand out? We are at the forefront of new directions in the advanced study of English literature:
- Globalizing the study of literature
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Using cognitive science to change how we understand reading
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Using literature to change our approach to key issues of social justice
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Addressing vital issues of environmental sustainability through literature
Find faculty interests by topic and period. See Creative Writing for information about the MFA degree.