MA Master of Arts 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which type of thesis approach is most common in a Master of Arts program focused on humanities?
- Laboratory experiment
- Argumentative textual analysis (Correct answer)
- Statistical regression model
- Clinical trial
Correct answer: Argumentative textual analysis
MA humanities programs typically center on argumentative textual or cultural analysis rather than experimental or clinical methods.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of a thesis prospectus in an MA program?
- To apply for graduation
- To outline the planned research scope and methodology before writing (Correct answer)
- To summarize completed coursework
- To request a tuition waiver
Correct answer: To outline the planned research scope and methodology before writing
A thesis prospectus presents the proposed topic, research questions, and methodology for committee approval before full writing begins.
Question 3: Which credential typically distinguishes a terminal MA from a non-terminal MA?
- The terminal MA is the highest degree offered in that field at that institution (Correct answer)
- The terminal MA requires fewer credit hours
- The non-terminal MA requires a dissertation
- The terminal MA is only awarded honorarily
Correct answer: The terminal MA is the highest degree offered in that field at that institution
A terminal MA is the highest degree offered in that field at that institution, whereas a non-terminal MA is a step toward a doctorate.
Question 4: In an MA program, what does 'ABD' status refer to for a student who transfers to a PhD track?
- Already Bachelors Degree
- All But Dissertation (Correct answer)
- Advanced Bilingual Degree
- Approved By Department
Correct answer: All But Dissertation
ABD (All But Dissertation) means the student has completed all coursework and exams but has not yet finished the dissertation.
Question 5: Which of the following best describes an interdisciplinary MA program?
- A program requiring two undergraduate degrees for admission
- A program that draws coursework and theory from multiple academic disciplines (Correct answer)
- A program offered jointly between two countries
- A program limited to students with work experience
Correct answer: A program that draws coursework and theory from multiple academic disciplines
An interdisciplinary MA integrates theories and methods from more than one discipline, such as combining history, literature, and philosophy.
Question 6: What is the typical role of a thesis committee chair in an MA program?
- To grade all coursework throughout the program
- To serve as the primary faculty mentor guiding thesis research and writing (Correct answer)
- To approve financial aid disbursements
- To set the program's admission standards
Correct answer: To serve as the primary faculty mentor guiding thesis research and writing
The thesis committee chair is the main faculty advisor who mentors the student through the research design, writing, and defense process.
Question 7: Which of the following is a common capstone alternative to a thesis in some MA programs?
- A doctoral qualifying exam
- A comprehensive portfolio or creative project (Correct answer)
- A second bachelor's degree
- An overseas fellowship
Correct answer: A comprehensive portfolio or creative project
Many MA programs allow a portfolio, recital, exhibition, or applied project as a capstone instead of a traditional research thesis.
MA Master of Arts 2
Which type of thesis approach is most common in a Master of Arts program focused on humanities?