WGS 891 is an interdisciplinary seminar paper meant to integrate learning in English and Women’s and Gender Studies and focuses on a topic pertinent to the dissertation. It also serves as an 800-level seminar. The student writes the paper under the guidance of a committee (which may be the same as the prelim committee) composed of at least 3 members:
- One member affiliated with Women's StudiesOne member affiliated with English
- One member with relevant expertise from any department
- WGS 891 is complete when it has been defended in a 2 hour oral examination.
Winter term of the third year, the student registers for 3 credits of WGS 891 and drafts a seminar paper. The student signs up under the INDI (individual instruction) number of the committee chair and receives a "Y" ("extended course").
Fall term of the fourth year, the student registers for an additional 3 credits of WGS 891 and the seminar paper is revised. By the end of the term, it is defended in a two hour oral exam with the whole committee. The "Y" is converted to a grade.
The prelim oral exam in English must be completed preferably by January 31st (but no later than April 1st) of the third year and WGS 891 by December of the fourth year.
