This is the typical progression through the program. TAs must register for 6 credits per semester; full-time students take at least 3 courses per semester. M.A. students may take up to 5 courses at the 400 level; other courses must be at the 500 and 600 level. M.A. students have 5 years to complete the degree.

First Year

• Take required courses:
  • ENG 510/511 Introduction to Professional Study
• ENG 514 Studies in Critical Theories
  
• Plan your specialization and start to take courses in that area.
  
• Start to look for a Major Professor in your specialization who will become your mentor.
  
• Fill out a tentative Program of Study:
  
• List the 10 courses that you plan to take for the M.A.
• Have the Assoc. Director of Graduate Studies sign the form.
• If your goal is to continue on to the PhD program, plan to present papers at professional conferences.

Second Year

• Form a committee with your Major Professor to supervise the portfolio/thesis.
• Complete the Nomination for Graduation form and have the Assoc. Director of Graduate Studies sign it.
• Register for ENG 595 Master’s Project for the portfolio option, ENG 599 for thesis option. You will need to obtain a permission number from your major professor.

Check your program of study to make sure it is an accurate record of your courses. You may need to file a Petition for Changes in Graduate Program if you need to indicate any changes from the tentative one.

NOTES

1. You must be registered for the semester in which you defend your thesis or portfolio.

2. You may take 2 graduate courses in another program at URI to count toward your English M.A.