Programs of study

The Department of English, housed in the College of Liberal Arts, offers a range of fields of study including literature, language and linguistics, professional and public writing, and creative writing. We also offer a minor in cinema and media studies.

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At the University of Nevada, Reno, our R1-classified research institution, graduate students receive unparalleled mentorship from award-winning faculty specialists. Scholarship opportunities abound for students to conduct in-depth research across diverse areas of study.

Located on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the University provides a superb setting to experience all four seasons, plus a plethora of outdoor activities, cultural vibrancy, and an emerging nightlife scene. Lake Tahoe, Sacramento, and San Francisco are just a short drive away.

Explore our areas of specialty and contact an advisor to discuss which of our programs aligns with your interests. We can't wait for you to join our thriving graduate community!

Cinema and media studies Learn to analyze film and related media through the study of directors, genres and film style.

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Creative writing Learn the artistic practice of composing and refining fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction in the creative writing program.

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Language & linguistics Linguistics is the close study of the nature of human language.

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Literature Literature focuses on the ability to think and write critically about literary texts.

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Public and Professional Writing Write for and critically analyze the communications of community organizations.

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Secondary teaching Secondary teaching develops proficiency in critical reading, research, editing, oral presentation, writing and publication.

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Teaching English to speakers of other languages The TESOL specialty provides students with backgrounds in linguistics and education who plan to teach English as a Second Language either at home or abroad.