Humanities, M.A.

The degree requires 37 hours, with a minimum of 18 hours in one of three disciplines–English, History, or Religion. An additional 18 hours can be completed in a second discipline, or the student may choose to split the remaining 18 hours between the other two disciplines. For the last or 37th credit hour, the student must successfully complete the comprehensive exam in one of the areas of specialization. Students may not complete more than 24 hours in one of the three areas; those who wish to do so should pursue the Master of Arts in the specific area.

Students with a passion for research and writing may attempt a thesis in an 18-hour area of specialization. This six-hour thesis will be completed in place of two courses, and in addition to the 18-hour specialization.

In addition to all requirements listed for Wayland’s Graduate Studies program, students must also meet the following prerequisites for admission to the Master of Arts in Humanities:

1. An earned bachelor’s degree (preferably a Bachelor of Arts in a humanities-related area, but others will be considered) from a regionally accredited university or college.
2. A minimum of 6 undergraduate hours in History or Religion, if pursuing these as 18-hour specialization areas, or a minimum of 12 undergraduate hours in English if students are pursuing English as an 18-hour specialization.
3. Three hours in a foreign or second language, or demonstrated competency at that level through CLEP, ETS Placement, or similar exam, any of which may be completed concurrently as leveling coursework. (Contact the Dean of School of Languages and Literature if further information is needed.)

When applying to the program, students must select or declare at least one 18-hour path of specialization.

Once admitted to the above program, students who wish to pursue an 18-hour specialization in English must complete the following graduate courses:
ENGL 5307 - Literary Theory  
ENGL 5308 - Advanced Research in English Studies   

Once admitted to the above program, students who wish to pursue an 18-hour specialization in History must complete the following graduate course:
HIST 5301 - Historical Methods  

Students who wish to pursue an 18-hour specialization in Religion are not required to complete any specific graduate courses.

Any course taken for credit toward the degree must be approved by the dean of the school that delivers that particular course.

While the Master of Arts in Humanities helps prepare students for doctoral programs in the Humanities or Liberal Arts, those who intend to pursue a doctorate in the areas of English, History, or Religion are encouraged to pursue one of Wayland’s MA degrees in that specific area.

Students admitted to the program must be prepared to adjust to the different disciplines’ varying course requirements, including diverse reading, discussion board, paper, and other assignments, as well as varied style manual requirements.  In such situations, students are responsible for educating themselves as needed; no extra assistance should be expected, and no special exceptions will be made.