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Dilemma: double major, or take more classes to prepare for the English GRE?

Cindy - 2009-04-10 21:14:34 - Higher Education (University +)

I plan to get a PhD in literature, but because my emphasis is in creative writing, if I choose to double major only three of my classes will truly be "literature" classes. Although I read a ton, I'm not sure it will prepare me for the test, which covers *everything*. So, is a double major really beneficial? Do graduate schools/phd programs like them? I'm talking about the GRE Literature subject test.

Best Answer:

What you major in does not affect how well you do on the GRE, since it covers, "verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills that are not related to any specific field of study." (www.gre.org) People taking the GRE are applying for graduate school in the arts and humanities, not just English. You should major in whatever you want. The best way to study for the test is to take practice tests and buy a study guide, like Princeton Review or Kaplan. I am currently studying for my GMAT, which is for business school. As far as a double major goes, it doesn't help for getting into graduate school. If you want to get your advanced degree in literature, I'd emphasize literature classes rather than creative writing because at some point you'll have to narrow your field down.

Answers:

What you major in does not affect how well you do on the GRE, since it covers, "verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills that are not related to any specific field of study." (www.gre.org) People taking the GRE are applying for graduate school in the arts and humanities, not just English. You should major in whatever you want. The best way to study for the test is to take practice tests and buy a study guide, like Princeton Review or Kaplan. I am currently studying for my GMAT, which is for business school. As far as a double major goes, it doesn't help for getting into graduate school. If you want to get your advanced degree in literature, I'd emphasize literature classes rather than creative writing because at some point you'll have to narrow your field down.