Detailed Information on Application Requirements for Literature
Your application will be reviewed by faculty members in the Literature area of the English Department.
A successful application will contain the following
Letter of Intent (1-2 pages):
This letter is a succinct explanation of your interest in Literature, your preparation for graduate
literature coursework, and your possible career aspirations.
Your letter of intent should include:

A clearly focused introduction that provides an overview for your reasons for applying to a
Literature program. These reasons might be (but are not limited to): career advancements;
ability to teach English coursework at K-12 schools or community colleges; preparation for Ph.D.
program applications; life-long learner and love of books; interest in cultural studies, ethnic
studies, gender studies, and other related fields.

Clearly laid-out paragraphs that follow up on your introductory overview. These paragraphs
might do any of the following. Discuss specific aspects of literature study that appeal to you.
Explain why Northern Arizona University’s program is the right fit for you. Identify courses
and/or graduate certificates from Northern Arizona University that appeal to you. Discuss any
special preparation that you have received that would be an indicator of your success in a
literature master’s program. Address any weaknesses in your application (poor undergraduate
grades, for example, or a lack of undergraduate English coursework). Explain your commitment
to literature and other forms of cultural studies.
Writing Sample (5-10 pages)
Your writing sample should be a formal paper that best represents your academic potential as an English
graduate student in literature. Ideally, your sample comes from a literature course and demonstrates
your ability to handle strong analysis of a literary work as well as your ability to incorporate secondary
sources. The sample should be carefully edited for grammar and style, and it should represent your
highest level of achievement.
Resume or Curriculum Vita (c.v.)
Your resume or c.v. should identify your education, work experience, volunteer work, scholarships and
honors, and publications or presentations.
The guidelines for the cv/resume ask that students identify education, work experience, scholarships or
honors, and any publications or presentations.
Letters of Recommendation (2 letters)
Chose the writers of your reference letters carefully. They should be individuals who can attest to your
ability to succeed at graduate level coursework. If you have been away from college for a while, you
might request a letter from a work supervisor or a professional colleague. If you wish to apply for a
graduate teaching assistantship, ask your letter writers to discuss your abilities as a teacher or mentor.
Please avoid requesting letters from family and friends.