I've been out of university for 10 years after my BA. Are chances of getting into graduate school lower now?

Question

I have a BA (honours) in English literature and want to go back to do an MA in the same field. I've worked for ten years as an English teacher. Problem is my best profs for references are dead or retired! What is the best way to improve my chances of getting into an MA program in English Literature?

Answer 1

Contrary to the answer above, the vast majority of graduate programs in English Literature (as opposed to Education) will not look kindly upon letters of recommendation from employers. Most programs will actually specify that letters from former professors are required. Letters from retired professors will ABSOLUTELY be acceptable!

Your chances of admission are not necessarily compromised by the fact that you've been out of school for some time, but your lack of currency in contemporary methodology in the field could possibly hurt your chances of admission.

I suggest that you take a couple of undergraduate-level courses at a local university before applying. (Choose the most highly ranked school available to you.) Excel, and get one letter from that professor.

If this is impossible, another route toward strengthening your application would be to present a paper or two at conferences. Check out the regional meeting of the MLA nearest to you, and submit a proposal.

I wish you every success.

Answer 2

No. You should have excellent references since you graduated from your undergrad with honors and have remained in the field all these years. Use your peers in teaching as references.
Go for it!
Your best chance is to apply!

Answer 3

It shouldn't be a problem. If you can dig up a professor for a reference, that's fine, but you can also use your bosses and work.

A lot of Master's programs actually prefer students who have work experience, so you should not have an issue with that.