[U Chicago MAPH]

i also got bounced to the MAPH. it seems like a money-maker to me, but, then again, i am a hater. in the letter, they kept emphasizing the program's "intensity" but, to me, it seems like it would be better for someone more laid-back. someone who doesn't necessarily want a career in academia or who wants to keep their options open.

[Resources for applying to study in the UK?]

Hi everyone,

I'm an American, and I've recently decided that I want to pursue a Master's degree in English Lit at a university in the UK--however, I'm confused and overwhelmed by the paperwork. Are there any good resources, online or otherwise, for American applicants to UK universities?

Thanks!

[transition from MFA to PHD?]

First, an MFA program does lead to a terminal degree - that's an important distinction you should fully consider. Second, because it is a terminal degree, credits will not transfer. One can transfer credits from a MA program because one earns an MA while in a PhD program - therefore, someone applying for a PhD program with a MA has in a sense (though the university may not honor it) already achieved the level of study demanded of first year PhD candidates. A Master's in English is a step on the path to a PhD in English; an MFA in Creative Writing is a separate path.

I would recommend against attending an MFA program without funding. Going into debt for it just does not make sense. Plus, a TA position is invaluable when you enter the job market, and will help you when you apply to PhD programs.

I would also caution against planning on attending the same school for both the MFA and the PhD. First, the MFA takes about 3 years - do you think you'll want to stay on that campus for another 5-7 (if you are accepted to the PhD program, that is)? Second, how likely is it that the school that has the strongest, most interesting creative writing department will also be the one that has the strongest, most interesting PhD program? Not very.

I might consider researching the nuances of these two programs a little more - and looking into how the schools you're interested in fit with your goal of earning both degrees. Also: there is a new PhD in Creative Writing degree that might help (or complicate!) your decision.

thanks, alette!

[transition from MFA to PHD?]

hey y'all,

so for a long time now, i've been waffling back and forth about whether i want to get an MFA in fiction or go for the gold with a PHD in english. i studied writing and english in college, and completed theses in both departments (which was a great experience but did not help me make a decision). obviously, there are pros and cons to both--even if i set aside the question of which i love more, there isn't a clear practical answer. the MFA's not a terminal degree and it could be expensive if i don't get funding; the PHD is such a lengthy commitment that maybe i'd be forced to "give up writing."

my question is this: is it possible to get an MFA at a school and then transition into that same school's PHD program? are any of the lit classes you take to get an MFA transferable to another school's PHD program? do you know of anyone who's done this, or of schools that are more receptive of it?

thanks in advance.

[Transition from MFA to PHD?]

hey y'all,

so for a long time now, i've been waffling back and forth about whether i want to get an MFA in fiction or go for the gold with a PHD in english. i studied writing and english in college, and completed theses in both departments (which was a great experience but did not help me make a decision). obviously, there are pros and cons to both--even if i set aside the question of which i love more, there isn't a clear practical answer. the MFA's not a terminal degree and it could be expensive if i don't get funding; the PHD is such a lengthy commitment that maybe i'd be forced to "give up writing."

my question is this: is it possible to get an MFA at a school and then transition into that same school's PHD program? are any of the lit classes you take to get an MFA transferable to another school's PHD program? do you know of anyone who's done this, or of schools that are more receptive of it?

thanks in advance.