Department of English Graduate Program Courses
English 505: Teaching College Composition
(3 credits -- Required for English GTAs concurrent with their first semester of teaching)
Develops writing instructors’ theoretical and research-based knowledge of college-level
writing instruction in synthesis with experiential learning in their ongoing teaching,
in order to strengthen their knowledge base for designing curricula, managing writing
classrooms, evaluating writing, and coaching students in developing their own writing.
English 510: Studies in Critical Theory and Practice
(Required—3 credits)
Topics in critical theory and practice. Explores how historical and contemporary theories
of literature have shaped the ways readers, teachers, and critics have thought about
such fundamental questions as canon formation, pedagogical practice, and the goals
and purposes of literary studies as a field.
English 520: Pedagogy Theory and Practice
(3 credits--This course will be taught online)
This course is designed to help practicing English/literacy teachers examine and
potentially revise their curricula in light of current trends and issues in English
Education. While the particular topics covered in class will depend, in large part,
on the needs and interests of those in the class, issues such as young adult literature,
critical media and digital literacies, (rural) place-based pedagogy, the high school
canon, and the CCSS are likely to be included.
English 530: Studies in Writing Theory and Practice
(Required—3 credits)
Topics in rhetoric and composition. Examines a variety of models that have historically
governed composition theory and writing practice.
English 550: Focused Research Seminar
(maximum 6 credits)
Topics offered at the graduate level not covered in the required courses. Involves
directed research resulting in a paper, as well as participation in preparing and
presenting discussion material. Topics will vary.
English 570: Individual Problems
(maximum 6 credits)
Directed research and study on an individual basis.
English 575: Professional Paper
(maximum 6 credits)
A research or professional paper or project dealing with a topic in the field. The
topic must have been mutually agreed upon by the student and his or her major advisor
and graduate committee.
English 576: Internship
(1-12 credits)
An individualized assignment arranged with an agency, business, school, or other organization
to provide guided experience in the field.
English 580: Special Topics
(maximum 9 credits)
Advanced study of topics in the discipline, in courses not required in any curriculum,
including experimental offerings of visiting professors, trial offerings of new courses,
or one-time offerings of current topics.
English 590: Master's Thesis
(1-10 credits)
A thesis dealing with a topic in the field. The topic must have been mutually agreed
upon by the student and his or her major advisor and graduate committee.