The English program offers two tracks leading to the master of arts (M.A.) degree: literature and writing studies. Both tracks include 56:350:503 Introduction to Graduate Literary Study, a course in philology, and at least four literature courses; each track allows for four additional courses in a specialized area. The literature track is intended for students who want to pursue a general interest in literature or to prepare for doctoral study at another institution; the writing studies track equips students to teach composition and literature at secondary schools and community colleges.