Graduate: Frequently Asked Questions
- What fellowships/awards are available and when should I apply?
- Is there any department money to help cover travel expenses to conferences or for research?
- Are there any summer GTA lines available?
- If I take summer classes will the department cover my tuition?
- How are teaching assignments made?
- Where can I find forms required by the Graduate School?
- Is there any publication to help me prepare my dissertation?
What fellowships/awards are available and when should I apply?
- Graduate Council Thesis/Dissertation Fellowship—November—Open to any MA writing a thesis or PhD who has begun writing their dissertation. Letter from thesis/dissertation director required.
- Excellence in Teaching—October—Open to all MAs and PhDs who have taught at least 4 semesters.
- Excellence in Research—October—Open to all MAs and PhDs.
- Buford Boone Teaching Fellowship—March—Open to PhD students who have successfully passed their preliminary exam and oral dissertation conference.
- GC Summer Research Fellowship—April- Graduate School award offered only if money is available.
- Strode Summer Fellowship—March—Open only to students in Renaissance Studies. See Sharon O'Dair.
Is there any department money to help cover travel expenses to conferences or for research?
Yes, the department has use of the Henry E. Jacobs Fund and the Miriam Locke Scholarship to help with travel/research expenses. The Jacobs fund was established in 1986 by friends and colleagues of Dr. Jacobs to provide travel and publication funds for graduate students in English. The Locke fund was established in 2000. It provides support of professional travel for graduate students in English. The priorities are: 1) travel to MLA for scheduled interview; 2) professional travel to places vital for dissertation research (libraries, archives, etc.); 3) travel to conferences for presentation of a research paper. The Graduate School, Capstone International Programs, the SGA and EGO are all sources of information for additional support.
Are there any summer GTA lines available?
No, the English Department does not offer summer GTA lines, but there are summer opportunities for graduate students.
If I take summer classes will the department cover my tuition?
No, but if you held a GTA line or fellowship during the preceding semester you are eligible for in-state tuition rates.
How are teaching assignments made?
All students accepting department support will be asked to complete a teaching request form to be returned the week after academic advising. On the form students are asked to list their class schedule for the upcoming semester. We try to give special consideration on days and times for those students who commute. Assignments are subject to change. Faculty and instructors are given priority.
Where can I find forms required by the Graduate School?
They can be downloaded from graduate.ua.edu.
Is there any publication to help me prepare my dissertation?
Yes, the Graduate School makes available a booklet called "A Student Guide to Preparing Theses and Dissertations". It may be picked up at the Graduate School or in the Graduate Studies office. The Graduate School also offers periodic workshops.
